Hans-Ashton: “It's a week in the year where I know I won't have any distractions, where I can reflect on what has happened and what's coming. We've learned this year how our actions are fueled by our emotions – when you're here, you get to re-set those emotions.”
Jaak Rakfeldt (New Haven, Connecticut, the US). “A healthy spirit is utterly essential for grappling with life. It's what makes us healthy. MÜ is holistic on all levels and helps us to achieve that – it's a whole week with vibrant, talented, interesting people. It's an enriching experience where you develop lifelong friendships.”
Indrek Wichman (Okemos, Michigan, the US). “Sometimes we want something deeper, more meaningful than the usual hum-drum of daily life in a world where discussions are often shallow and superficial. In the massive “tossed salad” that is modern North America, it is almost necessary to anchor oneself in a smaller, tighter world where history, culture, art and kinship can fill the void. Being here with my own ‘tribe' is very fulfilling.”
Anu Grabbi (Washington, DC, the US). “This was my first year at MÜ. The experience reveals itself layer by layer as the week goes on and you go deeper and deeper – the true, good Estonian spirit is here.”
Erik Kõvamees (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada). “In one week, you can learn an incredible amount about Estonian culture. It really broadens your horizons and leaves a lot of lasting impressions. It helps me understand what it is to be Estonian.”
Elva Mikk (Rochester, New York, the US). “This is my tenth year at MÜ. It gives you more depth, you understand your roots better and explore your culture. I get so many insights from the people here and whole new worlds open up in the study groups.”
Karin Ivand, Estonian World, Life, December 2014
