My name is Maria, but everyone calls me Mary. I am 25 years old and only now have I realized who I want to be – a graphic designer and illustrator. I love leisurely mornings and my mother. I like to look at old photos and try to recognize myself in them. I love to draw people too. I love life before the war. I love Ukraine.

I have two bachelor’s degrees and a master’s degree. I know 4 languages. I have a cat Musya. I have my own written book – “24” (can be ordered on www.24thebook.com ). Currently studying at Central Lakes College in the Graphic Design department.

My life was divided into “before” and “after”. Until February 24, 2022, I lived my life and did not plan any drastic changes. I had a job, studies and loyal friends. I woke up in my room and planned my life no longer than a week ahead. When Russia launched a full-scale invasion of sovereign, independent Ukraine at 5 a.m. on February 24, everything changed – all life fit into a single suitcase and the road seemed to have no end.

Miraculously, through all the obstacles and thousands of kilometers, through the evacuation to Poland, I ended up in America. My reality is twofold – I am a Ukrainian refugee. Even a year ago, I could not have dreamed that I would study at a college in the country of my dreams, and I could never have imagined in my wildest dreams that the war would throw me here. I am infinitely happy to live the experience of an American student and it is incredibly painful to wake up to the news that Russia has again attacked peaceful people in my area. I live with this reality every day and hope that the next morning will bring good news. For me, education is an opportunity to change something in my life, escape from painful reality and immerse myself in such a beloved work. Studying for me is a proof to myself that I am worth something in such a distant, foreign land. Education is my future.
I love to learn something new, I’m stress resistant and hard worker.
My biggest dream is to work for good graphic company and do some fun stuff together.