Alexandra Kadomtseva, Rotary Exchange Student

Cortland may be just a point on a globe half a world away right now, but soon 16 year old Alexandra Kadomtseva will pack a suitcase and begin her journey from Biysk, Russia, to our town.  Her American experience will begin at the home of Immediate Past President Renee Derr and her family.

Alexandra, or "Lex" as she prefers to be called, has been preparing for this trip since January, including taking English lessons twice a week from an American tutor.  She is no stranger to travel, but has not been overseas before. She has visited Spain, Egypt, Cyprus and Bulgaria. "All the trips were unforgettable and so wonderful," she wrote.

Lex is an only child.  Her mother and a business partner have a business that produces cotton candy. "For Russia it's a very new business that started only four years ago.  That's why they still have few competitors," she wrote.  Just wait until she goes to one of the fairs around here!  Her father is a computer sales manager.

The information sheet that Lex sent with her application paints a picture of an interesting, likable teenager.  She likes to participate in school activities.  She plays piano and guitar, writes poetry.  She has taken choreography and dance lessons for six years.  Her hobbies include beadwork and making jewelry and "beautiful things for my friends and classmates."

In her free time, Lex enjoys going to the movies, swimming, or visiting a musical studio with friends.  "Almost all of my friends play different musical instruments.  I like to be among talented and creative people," she added.

Biysk, Russia, is a city founded by Peter the Great almost 300 years ago.  It has a population of about 240,000 people who earn their livelihood by working in agriculture, pharmaceutical, chemical and light industries.

As Lex prepares for her journey, her families on both sides of the world are anxious, but want this experience to be truly a great one for her.

Host Families Sought

Families who would be interested in hosting our exchange student part of this year are being sought by the Cortland Rotary.  Alexandra Kadomtseva, from Russia, will be arriving mid-August, and is spending the first part of her stay with Cortland Rotary's Immediate Past President, Renee Derr, her husband Chuck, and their family.

"It is not necessary that the host families have children of the same age.  The experience for the exchange students and host families can be very rewarding," said Rotarian Jim Woofter.  The commitment does not have to be for the entire school year, as living with different families can broaden the student's experience. 

Interested people can contact Rotarian Mike Craig, Chairman of the exchange student committee.  His phone is 330-638-1171.

(Special thanks to Cortland News for permission to reprint this story.)