1. One Moldovan Navigating US Culture and Education Presenter: Irina Cuzminih, Fulbright Scholar, Moldova, Chisinau, cuzminii@strose.edu

2. I am fluent in 3 languages Chisinau, Moldova (1991-independent) Since 1989 – Romanian is official language (Russian) State Pedagogical University “Ion Creanga” - Formed In August 1940 Russian is a "language of interethnic communication“. Russian-Moldovan bilingualism is characteristic for Md.Russianwas granted official status in Gagauzia, and Transnistria in the east of the country.

3. Without any targeted teaching Through formal education

4. In main cities population is bilingual  “Code-switching” / swapping between the languages Fusion of 2 languages, which is mutually understandable for both speakers Not uncommon for speakers to use a different language within the same conversation You use Romanian words with Russian endings and the other way around. Also, you freely mix Russian and Romanian when you speak (i.e. Ian uiteshisumkaprikolinaia)

5. English as a FL 2nd grade Have been teaching English for 5 years in State Pedagogical University “I.Creanga” Got master degree in English philology Studied Computer science and English for 4 years

6. Let’s compare Moldova and the USA

7. sarmale mamaliga placinta Wine!

8. Questions?