Sparta grad studies in Russia and earns two degrees

Class of 2002 grad receives degrees in engineering and arts Sparta — Sparta High School graduate (2002) and recent college graduate Michael LeFante (Lafayette ’06) spent six weeks in St. Petersburg, Russia en route to earning a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering and a Bachelor of Arts with majors in international studies and Russian and East European studies. In St. Petersburg, LeFante took courses in Russian grammar, conversation, art history, and contemporary life. He also visited the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood, Summer Garden, Winter Palace, and Hermitage. During a three-day trip to Moscow, he visited Lenin’s tomb, St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin, and Red Square. LeFante, who turned down acceptance to New York University’s graduate program in Russian studies, will begin work designing mortar systems for the U.S. military at Picatinny Arsenal this August. He plans to take graduate courses in mechanical engineering through his employer. LeFante was a member of Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity, president of the inter-fraternity council, and vice president, house manager, and athletic director of his fraternity. He also served as an orientation leader for the Class of 2009. LeFante’s rigorous degree combination is a unique occurrence at Lafayette.