Anna Harvey

My name is Anna Harvey, and I am finishing my M.A. in Russian, East European, and Eurasian studies. I spent July and August at the Johan Skytte Institute of Political Studies at the University of Tartu in southern Estonia, where I conducted research on EU institutions and far-right political parties under the direction of Dr. Piret Ehin. Estonia, and Tartu specifically, has been a beautiful experience. The access to beautiful nature, including a river beach in Tartu that I frequented after work, left me with an impression of the country as sunny, warm, and welcoming, a description I'm sure would not fit the winters here! While in Tartu, I have formed good friendships with three young Estonians who became a sort of family away from home for me. The four of us were fortunate to be in Tartu when they held the title of European Capital of Culture, giving us access to countless free cultural experiences and activities. As such, I have had an incredible summer full of swimming, concerts, day trips, and unexpected experiences! 

I was also fortunate to work in Estonia at the same time as a wonderful group of other Stanford interns. Together, we explored Tallinn and Riga on the weekends, and I even made it as far as Helsinki with one of them. I sincerely hope to carry some of these friendships into the rest of my life and am sad I will not be returning to Stanford with them in the fall! The attached photo was taken in Tallinn during my first weekend in Estonia when I first spent time with the people who came to define this summer. 

I am so grateful to have had this summer in Estonia and am grateful to you for the support you have provided me. It has been such a wonderful experience that I am seriously considering pursuing a job in either Tallinn or Tartu and hope to return as soon as possible! Thank you again.