Abby Tkachenko (far right) in Lviv, Ukraine
November 18-22 is International Education Week, which is celebrated in over 100 countries around the globe. During this week, we will be highlighting stories from students (and the Dean of Arts, Lesley Cormack!) who have gone abroad as part of their program in the Faculty of Arts.
All interviews conducted by Sherilyn Trompetter, Senior Officer International, Undergraduate Student Services, Faculty of Arts.
Meet Abby Tkachenko, who is taking a BA in Linguistics and Modern Languages and Cultural Studies (language route, in Ukrainian and Russian).
Hi Abby! Where did you go and what did you do?
I went to Lviv, Ukraine for a four week intensive Ukrainian language course.
At what point in your academic career did you go?
I had just finished my first semester of university when I took the course in Lviv.
Why did you go?
I had lived in Ukraine for three years (2014-2017) and fell in love with the language and culture there which made this program perfect for me!
What delighted you about your experience?
I was surprised by how much I learned about Ukrainian culture and how it is constantly changing with new Western influences.
How did the experience influence you?
I improved so much in my Ukrainian language skills over such a short period of time and feel a lot more confident about talking with native speakers in Ukrainian.
What surprised you when you got back home?
I was surprised (but not super surprised) by how much I missed Ukraine and wanted to go back!
What advice would you have for Arts undergrad students who are considering a study abroad option?
Do it! The experiences you'll have and the friendships you'll make will be remembered for the rest of your life. Don't miss out on such an amazing opportunity, but make sure you arrive a few days before classes start so you're not too jetlagged ;)
Check out our amazing Study Abroad programs here!