Yaroslav is a sophomore at New York University. He is double-majoring in Computer Science and Business. He grew up in a town called Bucha, Kyiv region. After graduating from high school, he entered Kyiv-Mohyla Academy. After his freshman year, he took a leave of absence to complete a 10-month formational program from Ukrainian Leadership Academy. During the rigorous studies there, he simultaneously was preparing for SAT. After completing New York University’s Candidate Weekend in Abu Dhabi, got an admission offer with a scholarship of $320 000. It covered not only tuition, but also dorm expenses, meals, stipend, flights back home and health insurance. Also Yaroslav is an author of the YouTube channel “The Pursuit” with 233 000 subscribers. In his videos, he shares his life lessons, methods on discipline and efficiency, as well as inspiring people to change their lives for the better.

‘USF for me is about change. Change in the mind of young people, change in the educational process of Ukrainian universities. It is about practical actions, events that aim to raise awareness about a certain topic or help others grow. It is about great community where you are valued and equal, but where you also grow, both as a person and an effective leader.’