Reflections on a Summer of Research, Connection, and Discovery in the Ukrainian Summer Program at UWaterloo

by Callie Sweet

For Anastasiia Pryveda, a master’s student studying Foreign Policy and National Security at Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, the Summer Program for Students from Ukraine at the University of Waterloo became more than just an academic opportunity – it was a core memory filled with personal growth, community, and inspiration that will last a lifetime.

Drawn to the program by the opportunity to do research at one of Canada’s top-ranked universities, she also looked forward to the international atmosphere and a chance to experience a different culture. “I knew this would be a special part of my life,” she says. “A time to meet new people, build memories, and explore new ways of thinking.”

This summer, her research has taken a global turn, quite literally. Working under the supervision of Dr. Alexander Lanoszka, Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science, she’s contributing to a project analyzing how Central European countries are responding to China’s relationship with Russia in the context of the war in Ukraine. It’s a topic that hits close to home, and one that’s pushed her to challenge her perspectives. “Studying this from within Canada gave me a broader mindset,” she explains. “It opened my eyes to how international scholarship works.”

At Waterloo, she’s found not only academic opportunity but also belonging. “It feels amazing, for sure,” she says with a smile. “Every morning I wake up motivated to begin my work.” Having her own office on campus and easy access to the broader Waterloo research community made her feel integrated and inspired. Outside of research, she explored the natural beauty of Ontario, from the cliffs of the Elora Quarry to the charm of Niagara-on-the-Lake, soaking in the history and energy of Canadian cities.

A major part of her experience has been the community at United College, where she and fellow students lived and built friendships. She came into the program excited for new experiences but unsure of what to expect, yet what she found exceeded every hope.

Community dinners, floor events, and group trips from everywhere from the Bruce Peninsula to the islands of Toronto created a steady rhythm of connection. “How will it be possible to leave all these people?” she wonders aloud. “We supported each other. We helped each other grow.”

When asked about a favourite memory, she can’t choose just one. “The first few days were full of events and meetings. The Toronto trip, St. Jacob’s Market, Elora Quarry, Niagara Falls… I loved it all.” Even simple moments, like seeing friends at meals or having someone to lean on during a tough day, became essential sources of balance and joy. 

She’s experienced a remarkable amount of personal growth, academically, socially, and emotionally. Living in such a diverse and supportive space helped her become more resilient, more mindful, and more open. “I’ve become more understanding. My English improved, and cultural differences became easy to navigate because of how inclusive and welcoming everyone was.”

Before coming to Waterloo, she wasn’t sure if she wanted to pursue a career in academia. But after experiencing a research environment fueled by collaboration and bright energy, she’s changed her mind. Looking ahead, she plans to finish her master’s degree in Ukraine and is considering applying for another graduate program or an international internship. Her new goal? To develop a truly global mindset and eventually return home to make an impact in her home country.

When asked to describe the program in just three words, her answer is simple: Exploring. Activities. Community. Then she laughs and adds, “Research, trips, dinners, Waterloo, Kitchener, Canada… it was all priceless. An unmatched experience.”

Her advice to future students? “Everything that happens here is truly magic. Enjoy every dinner, every trip, every moment. Take advantage of this incredible opportunity for learning, friendship, and connection because you’ll remember it for the rest of your life.”