Russian Immigrant Finds His Focus at Community College of Philadelphia

When Vasily Davydov, 21, came to the United States from Russia 4 years ago, he knew he loved to paint, draw and design. He also was the product of Russian schools, and despite his strict background and heavy technical training in drawing, he wasn’t serious about having a career. Poor grades in high school discouraged him from going any further.

On a whim, he decided to take an art class at Community College of Philadelphia. Two years later, he is graduating with a 4.0 grade point average, and seeking admission to one of the most prestigious art school in the nation.

“I finally learned how I can channel my talent into a career. I really developed goals for myself here,” Davydov says.

In Russia, Davydov received a strong technical background in painting and drawing at several schools there. However, his creativity was never encouraged.

“I first felt really motivated at the College,” he said. “The teachers, who have successful art careers on their own, encouraged me to explore a more creative approach.”

The supportive approach to teaching brought him out of his shell. “I never felt different here. I had to work on my English, but the College’s ESL courses helped me overcome the language barrier.

During his teen years, Davydov would draw, rebuild things, he even took apart a motorcycle and rebuilt it once. His art teachers recognized the value of his mechanical ability, visual skill, and creativity could contribute to a successful career in art and design.

His teachers encouraged him to try new approaches to art, to go to exhibitions, and hone in on his talents and skills. He finally decided a career in Industrial Design would suit him after researching various careers in art.

Industrial Designers conceptualize, design, and produce products and packaging for clients. They need to be skilled in graphic design, model-making, printing and production processes, and must be market savvy to create products that will appeal to the consumer or client’s market.

“I felt I had a good foundation based on what I was taught in the Russia. I think it was hard for me to focus on any one thing, though, because none of us were encouraged to use art creatively, or think in terms of problem solving or conceptualizing ideas.”

Davydov also noted that the diversity on campus helped him feel comfortable. “I found that I had a great deal in common with people I would not have thought. Our cultural differences weren’t a major issue.” He also noted that the teachers take the lead in creating a supportive, accepting environment in which to learn.

Mei Ling Hom was Vasily’s advisor in the art department. She said of Davydov, “I’ve watched him overcome so many obstacles, and really come out of his shell over two years. Now, he challenges himself and is more self-assured about his future.”

The international student population at Community College of Philadelphia has been steadily increasing. During the fall of 1998, the College was home to 48 students from foreign countries. The fall 2002 semester saw nearly 300 international students. Difficulties with new INS regulations and the Patriot Act have made it more cumbersome for international students to attend American colleges and universities. The College’s spring semester saw a drop in international enrollment to 240 students from foreign countries.

“At Community College of Philadelphia, I learned that being foreign doesn’t have to be a deterrent. I met so many other international students, and found my focus.”