Ivanna Tomchyshena and Viktoriia Koretska arrived on the ICU campus with three other Ukrainian students in May 2022, just shy of three months since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The five students were the recipients of the Japan-Ukraine University Pathways (JUUP) scholarships, co-funded by the JICUF and ICU. At the time, they were students at Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, majoring in Japanese language and literature, and started taking courses at ICU as auditors. They completed the undergraduate program at their home institution remotely, and applied to the ICU Graduate School, officially enrolling in April 2023. 

This March, Ivanna and Viktoriia graduated with master’s degrees from the Public Policy and Social Research Program. Ivanna reflected on her time at ICU. 

Once, I was a teenager with a “Japanese dream.” Then, I became a lost child faced with the biggest decision of my life: stay with my family and my country in an uncertain, constantly dangerous environment, or leave my loved ones thousands of kilometers behind to chase my long-held dream.

If you are reading this, my decision is clear. Japan won over my fear and gave me hope for a brighter future. For that, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to pursue my master’s degree at one of Japan’s most prestigious universities. Studying at ICU has been a life-changing experience—one filled with growth, challenges, and invaluable memories. ICU has taught me the importance of flexibility, critical thinking, and creativity. These skills have shaped both my academic journey and personal growth.

Now, as I step into the next chapter of my life, I find myself both excited and uncertain about what lies ahead. Japan has become my second home, and I hope to stay here a little longer to contribute to its society. I have met incredible people both inside and outside of ICU. I have witnessed breathtaking views in Manazuru and Miyakojima, walked through history in Kyoto and Hiroshima, and tasted unbelievably delicious food in Yamagata and Shizuoka. I have shared my experiences with cheerful children in local communities and with a kind shop owner in Kawagoe, who spoke to me about history and even gave me a 20% discount on his products.

Looking back on my time at ICU, I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of such an inspiring community. I have grown in ways I never imagined, and I am excited to carry these lessons into the future.

Ultimately, my long-term goal is to apply the knowledge and experiences I have gained at ICU to contribute to Ukraine’s development. The skills I have honed in media analysis, communication, and cross-cultural engagement will be invaluable in addressing the challenges my home country faces. Although I do not know exactly when I will return, I hope that my time in Japan will equip me with the expertise and insights needed to make a meaningful impact.

Every journey, every adventure here—whether filled with joy or tears—has been precious to me. Japan, and ICU in particular, opened the door to a new world, one I could not have dreamed of. That is why I will continue this journey in Japan. I will keep exploring, sharing, learning, laughing, crying, and praying. And one day, when the news of my country’s victory echoes across the world, I will return to Ukraine and do my best to build a strong bridge between the two places dearest to my heart.

To my professors, the staff, my friends, and my fellow students—thank you. Your kindness, encouragement, and support have made my time at ICU truly special. I will always cherish these memories and strive to make you proud in the future.

With deep gratitude, I thank you all for everything!

Their short interview can be viewed here.
We wish Ivanna and Viktoriia all the best in their future endeavors!