Costa DeVault Salutes a New Citizen

Congratulations to Costa DeVault’s office manager Kristina Stepanova, who recently became a U.S. citizen. Kristina moved from Russia to Orlando at the age of 16 with her parents. She began working with the agency in 2006 and is currently pursuing a degree in digital communications at Valencia Community College. We asked Kristina about some of her experiences as well as what she’s learned after a decade on American soil.

What was one of the biggest communication challenges you faced when you came to America?

I find English fascinating and am fortunate to have learned it – but it wasn’t easy. When I first came to this country, I didn’t have a lot of people to talk to. Truth to be told, my first year here was long and lonely. Starting in high school was difficult too. I had to learn the manner of American speech in order to get to know people and make friends. Most of the time, I would just stare, wrinkle my nose, raise my eyebrows with a questioning expression and smile. I remember always concentrating hard – and sweating – trying to understand people. It was a real workout!

What are some differences in American and Russian communication styles?

The main difference is when Russians ask each other how they’re doing, they will most likely share the brutal truth. People are very honest there, and if someone had a bad day, you better believe you’ll hear all about it. Americans mostly sugarcoat their days with “happy” language.

After nearly a decade of living in the U.S., do you think your personality has changed at all?

Shortly after I moved, I set a goal for myself to not change drastically. I have seen a lot of people who changed so much after moving here. I liked who I was in Russia and didn’t see a reason to change. I arrived in this country with a strong sense of character and self-awareness. In the 16 years that I lived in Russia, I developed some principles and values that I was proud to have. One thing I didn’t want to let go of was an open-minded attitude; I think moving here with that mentality made it a lot easier.

What’s one thing that Americans can learn from Russians?

Find humor when things are rough. Historically, Russians have gone through a lot of hardship, but our people still found the courage to joke about it. I always found it fascinating.

What’s one thing that Russians can learn from Americans?

Smile more and remember to use good manners. You don’t hear a lot of “excuse me” on the streets of Moscow. Also, Russians should stop littering. It’s incredible how clean the streets are in America – it’s one of the things people notice when they visit.

Why did you decide to get your U.S. citizenship?

U.S. citizenship for me is a gift – an ability to see the world and a way to open the door to what I once found unreachable and impossible. You can’t get far with a Russian traveling passport. Americans are free to fly almost anywhere in the world without worrying about visa requirements. I believe Americans should really cherish this ability. Also, I am finally able to vote! People can’t grumble about their government if they don’t participate in it.

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