You are a fellow of the Victor Pinchuk Foundation’s Zavtra.UA programme. Could you please tell us how you managed to get into this programme? What did you learn that was useful for you, what events impressed you and left you with good memories from your time as a scholar? What do you think is the main value of such programmes?
I learnt about the Zavtra.UA programme in my second year of study, when I saw an announcement about the competition. At that time, I couldn’t apply because the programme was intended for students in years 3-6. But this only strengthened my desire to be part of this community. Later, I met Anna, a scholar of the programme, who explained all the benefits and opportunities. Then I decided: I will definitely give it a try!
My path to the scholarship started with writing a research paper and filling in an application form. Then there were three rounds of the competition, which took about six months. It was a period of waiting, interesting group work and interviews. At the beginning of June 2024, I received the long-awaited letter congratulating me on winning the scholarship.
Receiving the scholarship was a real eye-opener for me. In addition to the financial support, it has given me incredible opportunities for personal growth. The most memorable event was the Young Leaders Forum, which took place on 13-14 September as part of the Yalta European Strategy. There I had the opportunity to interact with influential people from all over the world: the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, the 70th US Secretary of State, the President of Estonia, the former Defence Minister of the Netherlands and the President of Croatia, historians from Stanford and Oxford, economists, diplomats, journalists, parliamentarians, congressmen, military officers and volunteers. It was a truly unique experience that gave me new knowledge and ideas, as well as a great deal of motivation.
I have recently been awarded the Konrad Adenauer Foundation’s ‘Sur-Place Scholarship 2024/2025’. One of the values of such programmes, in my opinion, is a network of active, talented young people who want to change Ukraine for the better by sharing knowledge and supporting each other.
By the way, the registration for the 2024/2025 Zavtra.UA scholarship competition is about to open, and I sincerely invite everyone to try!
You also spent some time studying at the WU Vienna University in Austria. Was it as part of an exchange programme or how was it? And in general, how would you describe your experience of studying abroad?
I studied for two semesters as part of a special exchange programme for students from Ukrainian universities. This programme was set up by WU to support Ukrainian students during the full-scale invasion and offered free tuition as part of academic mobility. I also received an Ernst Mach Ukraine Scholarship from the Austrian International Cooperation Service for Education and Research, which covered all my living expenses in Vienna.
I still remember this time with incredible warmth and would advise anyone to apply for similar opportunities. In addition to the incredible experience of studying in the European education system, I had the opportunity to meet students from all over the world, visit new countries and experience the cultural, architectural and natural wealth of Austria. Thanks to my interesting studies, I have broadened my horizons and gained a lot of new knowledge and skills that help me now.
What advice would you give to students – readers of our media – who would like to take part in one of these programmes abroad, and how can they get the most out of the experience?
First, it is important to make the most of your studies. This means not only attending classes, but also taking the initiative: ask questions, interact with teachers, take a leadership role in group work, and don’t be afraid to speak in front of an audience. This will contribute to your professional and personal development. Also take part in seminars, forums and hackathons offered by your university. At WU, for example, I participated in discussions with experts called ‘WU matters. WU talks.’ on topics ranging from gender equality to monetary policy. Second, get to know exchange students from other countries. This is a unique opportunity to learn about cultural differences and make friends from all over the world. Third, explore the country and city where you will be living – its architecture, cultural attractions, food and language. This will not only enrich your cultural experience, but also help you to integrate better into your new environment. And, of course, use every opportunity to remind foreigners about Ukraine and support our country.
Now I would like to talk about education. I myself had a great opportunity to study for a master’s degree at the Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. I had good teachers with whom it was very interesting to discuss various topics. You also went to this university to get a Master’s degree, and before that you studied there for your Bachelor’s degree. What do you think is the value of a university today, when we all have access to almost unlimited information? What do you personally find valuable in higher education, and why is it worth pursuing, especially when it comes to a Master’s degree?
I believe that a university is not only a place to gain knowledge, but also a unique place to develop critical thinking and teamwork skills. A Master’s degree, in particular, offers the opportunity to delve deep into your chosen field, broaden your professional horizons and explore important issues from a scientific point of view. For me, the value of higher education lies in the fact that the university creates an environment for interaction with teachers, fellow students and experts, and provides the opportunity to participate in fascinating discussions and interesting projects.
Does studying at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, which is considered one of the best universities in Ukraine, meet your expectations? What are the advantages and disadvantages of your university during your studies, and would you generally recommend applying here? In your experience, did the war have a great impact on the process of obtaining higher education, did it significantly worsen it?
This summer, I received a bachelor’s degree in economics with honours at the Faculty of Economics of Taras Shevchenko National University in Kyiv. Undoubtedly, the full-scale invasion brought its own adjustments, and for a long time we studied online. Now, however, the faculty has switched to full-time education and resumed all activities, so student life is in full swing. If you really want to gain quality knowledge in this field, find a circle of like-minded people and opportunities for development, you should definitely come and study here. The Faculty offers a wide range of educational programmes and student activities. In particular, the Faculty is home to Diia.Business at KNU, where you can attend a variety of lectures and events by professionals. At the moment, I have joined the Master’s programme at the Institute of International Relations and am studying International Relations, Public Communication and Regional Studies. As this is a new department of our university for me, it is difficult to draw conclusions. However, in this short time I have already noticed how active the student government is here.
Speaking of the full-scale war, to what extent has it affected your view of the world today, do you see some things differently than you did before 24 February? Did these terrible events make you rethink any values or priorities in your life, how would you describe your visions and views after the start of the full-scale invasion? Do you think you are a different person today because of what you have lived through and seen in these almost three years?
I think the full invasion has affected each and every one of us. We have seen what human cruelty is capable of, but we have also seen the incredible strength of spirit and unity of the Ukrainian people. We began to appreciate more the peace, security and freedom we once took for granted. The war highlighted the importance of helping and supporting each other in difficult times. Personally, I started to appreciate every moment of life, not to put things off for later, but to live here and now, today. I also started to get more involved in public initiatives and volunteer to contribute to the development of Ukraine.
What inspires you today to participate in so many different programmes, to study at one of the country’s top universities and abroad, and to engage in social activities? What advice can you give to our young people who feel lost in this world, under this huge cloud of uncertainty, when your country has been at war for more than 10 years (and we don’t see the end of it any time soon) and somehow you have to go forward and build some kind of future in such circumstances? How do you manage to do this and what advice do you have for young people who also dream of achieving many things but are perhaps reluctant to overcome all the obstacles?
My inspiration comes from my belief in a better future, the support of my loved ones and the stories of Ukrainians who do not give up and find the strength to keep fighting.
In my experience, it is important to find something that really interests and inspires you and to start acting in that direction, even in small steps. Every small action can lead to big changes. Look for development opportunities, attend different classes, trainings and courses, get involved in public initiatives – this will not only help you make new friends and like-minded people, but also give you confidence in your own abilities and enrich your experience.
Step out of your comfort zone. Where your comfort zone ends is where the magic begins – your growth. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and try new things. Making mistakes is part of the path to success, and each one gives you invaluable experience. Build your future one step at a time without losing faith in yourself.
What gives your life meaning, what makes you get up every morning and work on yourself and contribute to positive change?
Each new morning is a new opportunity. Every time I wake up, I feel a surge of energy because I know something wonderful and incredible could happen. It could be a conversation with a person that will change the way I see the world, or being part of a project that really matters. I am driven by the desire to be part of changes that can improve the lives of the people around me.
I believe that life is about emotions, experiences and moments that leave a mark on your heart. I try to fill each day with something bright: from new ideas to simple pleasures that make my life full and rich. Every step, even a small one, can lead to big changes. This is what motivates me to move forward, overcome obstacles and follow my dreams.
My family is what pushes me to new heights, inspires me to set new goals and strive to achieve them, knowing that I can always come back to those who love me.
Finally, I would like to thank our defenders for giving me the opportunity to do this interview, to study and to implement projects.
