Yana is from Ukraine. She is studying at CEU thanks to the Alumni Scholarship, next|generation.
In her own words:
Nothing seems more challenging or important to me than brining positive changes to people’s lives, especially those who need it most.
While studying at the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy I was constantly asked by many Ukrainians: ‘what is social work? What are you going to do with that?’ For me, it was evidence of how little trust is put in the welfare policy in Ukraine, and how great is the responsibility of young people like me to change that.
I graduated in 2014 from the academy with a BA in Social Work. I have also worked in various social agencies, governmental and non, working with disadvantaged schoolchildren, the mentally handicapped and refugees. In 2013 my classmates and I formed the student association ‘Ufree,” which sought to prevent human trafficking.
My volunteer experience, plus internships in China, Indonesia and elsewhere allowed me to compare cultural peculiarities and realize the importance of intercultural exchange.
I am grateful to the alumni donors for allowing me to become part of CEU’s diverse and incredible community.