Ruslan Elistratov

 As an advisor, I see my role as more than just helping students with creating solid course schedules and fulfilling academic requirements.  I aim to build collaborative relationships with my advisees in exploring their unique paths toward academic and personal flourishing. I strive to create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, in which students can discern their strengths, interests, and hopes, and develop skills for reaching those goals with the help of the various resources available at the university.  I want my advisees to feel like they belong at UVA.

       My passion for advising and teaching was inspired in part by my own past advisers and mentors who supported and guided me in my growth as a student, scholar, and human being.  Curiosity, love of learning, and desire for deeper understanding inform both my advising and teaching.

My research interests include interconnections between science, philosophy, and religion, the problem of evil, and the secrets of happiness. I love movies and EDM, spending time with my family and dog Willie, walking in nature, and practicing Kungfu and swordsmanship.