Spring 2025: March 20 — April 17
Subject: HR
Course Level: 300
Number of Credits: 1 U.S. / 2 ECTS
Max Enrollment: 22
Schedule: Thu 17:00 – 20:00 CET (Berlin) | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM EDT (New York)
Language of Instruction: Russian
Course Prerequisites: Russian B2 / Equivalent or higher

This online mini-course examines the intersection of sexuality and disability in cultural representation. Through the analysis of films, exhibitions, and other media, we will explore how sexuality shapes societal perceptions and its pivotal role in framing disability identity. By engaging with diverse cultural narratives, participants will critically assess the ways these intersecting identities are portrayed and understood, fostering nuanced discussions about representation, inclusivity, and the complexities of human experience.

Guidelines for the Statement of Purpose:
Craft a reflective statement of purpose explaining your interest in the Smolny Beyond Borders online course. The file should be saved with your name and course title as the filename and uploaded accordingly. Your statement’s clarity and substance will significantly influence our selection. Convey your motivations and aspirations for this course succinctly but thoroughly. Kindly write your statement in the course’s Language of Instruction.

Application Portal Instructions:

Dear friends,

We understand that our course application system is far from meeting digital accessibility standards. If you experience any difficulties while applying, please don’t hesitate to contact the SBB team at helpdesk@smolny.org — whether these difficulties arise due to a disability or for any other reason. We are working to make our form simple, clear, and accessible, but while the system is still far from perfect, we will assist you and guide you through the application process.

1) Use the Latin alphabet for all entries on the portal, including your name. If the Language of Instruction is Russian, you may use Cyrillic only within the Statement of Purpose file, and the title of the file should still be in English.
2) Refrain from using email addresses associated with Russian or Belarusian educational institutions.
3) While completing the “Required Information” section, ensure you fill in the “Province” field for your address.
4) Provide an address outside Russia or Belarus in both the “Required Information” and “Geographic Location Confirmation” sections of the “Online Course Application”. This ensures we can send your transcript.
5) You must press the “Sign” button twice during the application.
6) If you hold a bachelor’s degree, select “4th+” in the “Academic Year (online)” section.
7) Applicants either unaffiliated or affiliated with educational institutions in Russia and Belarus should list ‘Smolny Beyond Borders’ as their educational institution.
8) In the student ID section, enter ‘SBB’.
9) Consider drafting your motivation letter ahead of time. Save it as a separate file with this format: LastName_FirstName_CourseTitle for a smoother application process.