Born and spent most of my childhood in Russia (Moscow area) but have lived in the United States for 19 years.

BSc in Geosciences from Binghamton University, NY USA (focus Experimental Petrology)
Msc in Geosciences from Virginia Tech, VA USA (focus Geochronology, Petrology, Tectonics)

had to satisfy myself with a minor degree in Russian Studies from Binghamton University since being a native speaker I did not qualify for any but the highest level language classes.

Spent several years working for an Oil and Natural Gas Consulting Company (where I was able to try my hand at Eng/Rus, Rus/Eng interpretation) as well as an additional 3 years studying Medical Geochemistry at Stony Brook University.