Anna Martynova: Always There for Her Students

The elegant Professor Martynova

Professor Martynova clearly remembers her first day working at GDUFS. Walking to her class that morning she saw many students sitting and standing in the small park in front of the library reading aloud from books they held in their hands. She wondered whether they were preparing for exams so early in the term. Later she learned they were just practicing their reading fluency on their own. Their initiative left a deep impression on Professor Martynova.

According to Professor Martynova, however, diligence is far from enough to master the Russian language. She says students should immerse themselves in the language as much as possible through reading, watching films, and seeking opportunities to communicate with the numerous Russian people living here in Guangzhou. Trying to think in Russian, even while speaking Chinese, is another way to learn faster.

When asked what she thinks the biggest obstacle is for Chinese to acquire Russian, Professor Martynova said that first of all the Russian way of thinking is very different from that of the Chinese. She suggests that students try to read original literature and watch films while paying special attention to the language. She also recommends asking teachers more questions.

Professor Martynova has won the love and respect of her students. Ye Qianyi, a class monitor, said Professor Martynova is a devoted and responsible teacher. "Her class is very vivid," Yi Qianyi said. Her passion for the Russian language is highly contagious!" Whenever her students are in need, she is always there to help. Apart from teaching, Professor Martynova joins her students in extra-curricular activities such as the drama night, Russian poetry night, and sports activities.