Mrs. Oswald. I was capable but lazy. I never spent much time studying. You know, everything came to me very easily. Sometimes my ability saved me. My language, you know—I talk a lot, and get a good grade.
Mr. Rankin. Did you work part-time while you were going to school?
Mrs. Oswald. Yes. The money which I received on the pension was not enough, and therefore I had to work as well as study.
Mr. Rankin. And what did you do in working?
Mrs. Oswald. At first I worked in a school cafeteria, school lunchroom. This was good for me, because I also got enough to eat that way.
And then I felt the work was not for me, that it was too restricted, and then I worked in a pharmacy. Then when I graduated I worked in a pharmacy as a full-fledged pharmacist—as a pharmacist's assistant.
Mr. Rankin. Before you graduated, how much were you paid for your work?
Mrs. Oswald. I think I received 36 per month—this is new rubles—at that time it was still 360 old rubles. But I could eat there three times a day. And then this was a lunchroom that was part of a large restaurant where everyone liked me and I always was treated to all sorts of tidbits and candy. I remember they had some busboys there who always saved something for me.
Mr. Rankin. Did you save any money while you were working before you graduated?
Mrs. Oswald. I don't know how to save money. I like to make presents.