As Ukraine continues to grapple with the devastating impact of war, stories of resilience and determination emerge from the midst of chaos. Among those demonstrating remarkable strength are Alina, Alona, Artem, Arsen and Yelizaveta – students of Kherson State Agrarian and Economic University. We asked them a couple of questions concerning their emotions, motivations, challenges, and the invaluable lessons they’ve gleaned from their experiences.
In this article, we explore their unwavering resolve to pursue education and personal growth amidst the chaos of conflict. These students refuse to be deterred by the turmoil around them, and their stories serve as a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Alina Mikheyeva
Alina Mikheyeva, one of the students at the KSAEU, shares her journey of resilience. “After the start of the war, my emotions were in turmoil,” Alina recalls, reflecting on the fear, anxiety, outrage, and helplessness that enveloped her. “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. Her academic success, reflected in high grades, underscores her dedication to learning and her resilience in the face of adversity.
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 affirms, highlighting her commitment to making a difference despite the challenges she has faced.
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 unwavering 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 concludes, embodying resilience and determination in the midst of adversity.
Artem Kolisnychenko
Artem Kolisnychenko, a very brave individual, shares his story amidst the chaos of war. Living under the shadow of occupation brought about constant fear and stress, making it difficult for Artem to focus on his studies initially. However, upon leaving the occupied territory and finding stability, he was determined to catch up on lost time.
“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.” As Artem navigates the uncertainties of the future, he remains resilient and determined to overcome challenges, embodying the spirit of perseverance amidst adversity.
Arsen Yefremov
Arsen Yefremov, another determined student from Kherson, shares his journey. As the conflict unfolded, he experienced apathy and fear, grappling with the uncertainty of the situation. The support provided by the scholarship gave Arsen the opportunity to deal with the financial burden and served as a motivational incentive to pursue his academic and personal development.
Despite facing constant danger and psychological challenges, Arsen found refuge in his studies, using them as a tool for mental stability and personal growth. Through his academic pursuits, he learned valuable lessons about resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
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 leveraging his skills to improve public life.
Yelizaveta Dmytruk
Journey of Yelizaveta Dmytruk began like that of many others in Kherson, with confusion and disbelief at the onset of the conflict. 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, embodying the spirit of resilience and compassion amidst adversity.
In the face of unprecedented challenges brought by war, Alina, Alona, Artem, Arsen and Yelizaveta exemplify resilience, determination, and unwavering hope. Their stories of perseverance amidst adversity serve as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of education to overcome even the darkest of times. As they continue their respective journeys, they stand as beacons of inspiration, reminding us all that in the midst of turmoil, there is still light to be found, and with perseverance, anything is possible.
