Students of Kherson State Agrarian and Economic University describe how the war has affected their studies and everyday lives.
Alina, Alona, Artem, Arsen and Yelizaveta share the challenges they face, what motivates them to continue studying, the lessons they have learned and their plans for the future.
Alina Mikheyeva
Alina Mikheyeva, a student at KSAEU, describes her experience of continuing her studies during the war. “After the start of the war, my emotions were in turmoil,” Alina recalls, describing feelings of fear, anxiety, outrage and helplessness. “Communication and internet access were scarce, making it challenging to stay connected. However, I used every opportunity to establish contact and continue my studies by sending tasks to my teachers.”
Alina’s determination to continue her education came from her belief in its significance for the future. “I understood that education is the key to success, even in the toughest times,” she emphasises. “The scholarship provided me with additional motivation to keep moving forward.”
Despite the challenges, Alina actively participated in volunteer activities, including donating blood and plasma for servicemen, and engaging in student and public organisations. She has also maintained high grades in her studies.
Looking towards the future, Alina plans to continue her education, develop professionally and personally, and contribute to society and her country. “I want to do everything possible to positively influence my surroundings and achieve success in my career,” she says.
Alona Mykytas
Another student, Alona Mykytas, recalls “when I was woken up with the words ‘get up, the war has started,’ I couldn’t believe it”. “Plans changed, and neither teachers nor students had any idea what to do or whether to continue studying at all.” Despite the psychological stress of war affecting her ability to concentrate, Alona returned to studying after leaving for Kyiv, where she found support and stability.
Alona’s motivation to continue studying stemmed from her dreams of achieving education and professional growth, supported by her grandmother’s belief in her abilities. “The war taught me to be prepared for irreversible changes and to react quickly to unforeseen circumstances,” Alona reflects. “It made me stronger and more confident in my abilities.”
Looking ahead, Alona plans to continue her studies at the master’s level, aspiring to become a qualified specialist and contributing positively to her country’s future. “In the face of uncertainty, I console myself with the thought that as long as there is support for Ukraine, for students, everything will be fine,” Alona says.
Artem Kolisnychenko
Artem Kolisnychenko describes the fear and stress of living under occupation, which initially made it difficult to focus on his studies. After leaving the occupied territory and finding stability, he wanted to catch up on the work he had missed.
“Life in occupation, after leaving, and now, during shelling and power outages, is challenging,” Artem reflects. “But studying and student activities distract me from the bad news, and I greatly appreciate the support of the professors at KSAEU, my classmates, and the thought that Ukrainians are supported by the European community.”
“This whole situation with the war has undoubtedly borne fruit in shaping me as a person,” Artem admits. “My overarching goal is to successfully finish my studies at the university, help society, and be a worthy person.”
Arsen Yefremov
Arsen Yefremov, a student from Kherson, describes his experience of the war. As the conflict unfolded, he experienced apathy and fear, grappling with the uncertainty of the situation. The support provided by the scholarship gives Arsen the opportunity to deal with the financial burden and serves as a motivational incentive to pursue his academic and personal development.
Arsen describes studying as a source of stability and personal growth while facing danger and psychological challenges.
Looking ahead, Arsen remains committed to his academic journey, aspiring to become a qualified specialist in economics and contribute to his country’s future. He plans to continue engaging in scientific research and using his skills to improve public life.
Yelizaveta Dmytruk
Yelizaveta Dmytruk recalls confusion and disbelief at the start of the war. Coming from a low-income, yet tightly-knit family, she always strived to set an example for her siblings, emphasising the value of education and knowledge. Her dedication to learning and active participation in student and volunteer activities became a source of inspiration for her family.
“I tried to distract myself from the horrors of war by immersing myself in my studies,” Yelizaveta explains. “Despite the challenges, I remained determined to complete my diploma thesis, even amidst the destruction and chaos caused by the retreating Russian forces.”
“As the city was liberated, I realised the importance of resilience and the strength of community,” Yelizaveta reflects. “It inspired me to continue my education and contribute positively to rebuilding our city and country.”
Despite the ongoing challenges and inability to leave the city due to constant shelling, Yelizaveta remains committed to making a difference. She actively participates in volunteer activities, including providing aid to those in need and donating blood to save lives.
Their accounts describe the disruption caused by war and the role that study and community support play in their daily lives. The students hope to continue their education and contribute to their country’s future.
