Meet a Village Family
Q&A with Gene and Svetlana (Lana) R., Parents of Classy Cucumber Nicole and Honey Bear Valerie
Where were you each born? Where did you each grow up?
We were born in what used to be called the Soviet Union. Lana was born in one of Russia’s largest and most prominent cities, Saint Petersburg, and Gene in the sunny Ukrainian port town of Odessa. Each of us grew up and lived in these towns until the big move to the U.S.
When did your family move to the United States? To California?
Gene had moved to the U.S. in 1989 directly to San Jose, and later moved to Sunnyvale. Lana came to the U.S. in 2000, and in a few years we moved to Campbell.
Why did you move?
We both moved to the U.S. to join the family and try to follow what historian James Truslow Adams was referring to as an “American dream.”
What are some of the major differences in living here versus your original home?
I would say that the main difference is in the work-life balance. People in Russia would sacrifice many of the conveniences that come from more income in favor of enjoying life – taking more vacations, nights out, parties and such. Many in the U.S. are more concerned with stable income, bigger houses, financial independence and physical comforts, and settle for small vacations and longer work hours.
What do you like about living here?
I like the safe neighborhoods. Friendly people on the streets. Fantastic Village school community. Wonderful weather with the rare ability to go from snowy mountains to sunny ocean beaches within a few hours drive. A unique multicultural society where one can explore different food cultures without having to leave town, say nothing of traveling across the globe.
What do you miss?
We do miss the old town feeling, old world architecture with beautifully decorated facades, and the ability to easily travel to European cities. We miss the four season weather, music on the streets for the New Year celebration, and old friends you can visit unannounced.
How do you keep traditions and culture from home a part of life for your children?
Technology provides the opportunity to stay somewhat immersed in foreign culture. The kids watch Russian cartoons and shows. We keep in close contact with relatives on Skype, read books and keep up with current trends.
We also try to keep the kids involved in the local Russian community groups as well as the traditional activities.
How did you pick Village?
We came to visit Village as it was part of the local zip code school with good scores, and immediately fell in love with the concept of parent participation and the open, friendly community.
What is the school system like in your hometown?
The school is somewhat different, with 10 grades instead of twelve and no division for elementary – middle – high. Kids are joined to the class group in the first grade and remain with the same group of people for the next ten years.
The school is more formal, kids wear the uniforms and the homework is mandatory from 1st to 10th grades.