Computer programmes

[schlagen.livejournal.com]

Quick question regarding computer programmes. If in my exam I have to write a response to a job advertisement which specifically asks for experience with computers and to state which progammes I can use... how do I write the names of the standard Microsoft programmes in Russian? Would it be too simple to hope that Word translates as слово and so on.

Thanks in advance

Черты резюме

[yurodivy84.livejournal.com]

What is the most "neutral" (i.e. lacking any sort of emotional/judgemental charge) term for a "security guard"? I've come up with охранник and сторож, but these (at least according to teh Internets) remind me uncomfortably-much of something more akin to a вышибала (those 2m-tall guys with flat heads and who can only reply with: "no" or a fat fist to your face). More as in, the people in airports or sitting at the front desk in big banking offices? A bit like this guy, except without looking like a soliciting douchebag:

P.S. Is it true that Russian girls are not only gorgeous, but also kind, realistic and like to cook? In that case, which would sound more attractive: "I'm from Scotland", or: "I'm from California"?

;)

Presentation Help.

[lovimoment.livejournal.com]

I am once again talking to a group of Americans who work with our exchange students (who are from the countries of the former USSR) about the peoples and cultures of the former Soviet Union. I have been warned that I will be asked to provide an explanation for why our kids seem so pessimistic/negative.

I have a couple ideas on how I could explain this:

(1) If we are to look at the grand scheme of things, Americans are actually ridiculously optimistic. Russians are, on average, at the other end of the spectrum. (An interesting article that lo5an forwarded to me about just this.) One could argue, however, that this is just as much the effect as it is the cause.

(2) Life in the countries of former Soviet Union is simply harder than it is the United States, and has been for quite a while. Even though most people believe that things are improving now, the changes in society over the last 25 years have also been very stressful.

(3) In addition, many people feel like they don't have control over what happens to them and don't have choices/opportunities in life - due to their economic situation, the structure of society, etc.

Any thoughts? I'd especially welcome any comments from people who have a good understanding of both American and Russian/Soviet culture.

(x-posted to lovimoment and russophiles)