An Integrative Approach to Professionalizing Russian Language Learning and Teaching

This article proposes an integrative framework for embedding career readiness into advanced Russian language teaching. Drawing on the experience of a U.S. Russian Flagship Program, the authors argue that career readiness requires deliberate programmatic choices: a proficiency level sufficient for meaningful disciplinary engagement and study abroad immersion; a flexible open-architecture curriculum that admits interdisciplinarity into the core of the program; faculty preparation that makes embedded career advising possible; and institutional partnerships that give language work standing in professional contexts. Framed through the Connections standard of the World-Readiness Standards for Learning Languages, the article positions interdisciplinary engagement not as an enrichment activity but as a central mechanism through which advanced language study supports career preparedness, irrespective of whether or not program alumni pursue careers that require Russian. Drawing on recent national survey data, the authors position advanced language programs, including Russian, as capable of delivering the experiences identified as consequential for student well-being and post-graduation success.