Daria “Dasha” Kolosovska has already overcome incredible odds in pursuit of her education and future. Originally from Haisyn, Ukraine, Dasha came to the United States through the highly competitive Ukraine Global Scholars program, earning a fully funded opportunity to attend Fryeburg Academy after being selected from more than 550 applicants nationwide.

An exceptional student, leader, artist, and advocate, Dasha has excelled both academically and personally despite the challenges of living through war and rebuilding her future far from home. She graduated near the top of her class in Ukraine and was elected President of her school, demonstrating leadership and initiative from an early age. Since arriving at Fryeburg Academy, she has earned a 4.47 GPA and quickly became a leader within the school community — serving on Student Council, being appointed to Dorm Board. Back home in Ukraine she has also been selected President by her peers.

Dasha’s accomplishments stretch far beyond the classroom. She was selected for the prestigious Yale Young Global Scholars Innovation, Technology & Science Program, where she helped lead a winning AI hackathon project. She has completed internships in technology, marketing, and nonprofit outreach, volunteered extensively for Ukrainian humanitarian efforts, organized cultural events, mentored younger students, and led fundraising initiatives supporting both local communities and Ukrainian defense efforts.

She is also an accomplished musician, performer, and dancer, earning numerous regional, national, and international awards in vocal music, instrumental performance, and dance. At Fryeburg Academy, she has continued sharing her talents both on stage and within the community.

After facing the growing challenge of securing financial aid as an international student — especially during a time when international scholarship opportunities are at an all-time low — Dasha has persevered through determination, hard work, and resilience. She has now earned acceptance to University of Nebraska–Lincoln and secured significant scholarship support to continue her education in the United States.

To make this dream possible, Dasha will also be participating in a homestay arrangement to help reduce living expenses while attending college. This fundraiser is intended to help close the final financial gap needed for tuition and related costs so she can begin this next chapter without overwhelming financial burden.

Every contribution, no matter the size, is an investment in an extraordinary young woman whose leadership, compassion, resilience, and talent continue to inspire everyone around her. Thank you for helping Dasha continue building the future she has worked so hard to achieve.