Hi everyone, my name is Tanya. I am an exchange student in the United States from Ukraine for the 2021-2022 school year. I am studying at Northview High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan and living with my host mom, Priscilla Hansma. When I came here, we had a war between Ukraine and Russia. We've been involved in it since 2014. However, no one could even think that Putin would go further and try to occupy the whole of Ukraine. It is a crime not only towards my nation but also towards humanity. The whole country suffers from shooting, bombing, and shelling. Hundreds of schools, hospitals, and apartment buildings are destroyed. It is impossible to move around the country because the roads are damaged and controlled by the army. For this reason, unfortunately, I can't go back to Ukraine to continue my education.

I am a senior, so I need to go to college because I want to study and major in political science or international relations. I want to help people and make some changes in how we live now. I am eager to do it in the US. The only problem is that colleges are expensive here, especially for me as an international student. I got accepted to Siena Heights University, a small private catholic school. I visited their campus, and I realized that I would love to study there! But I knew that my parents, who are still in Ukraine, could not afford to pay for it. Thus, I applied for and got a full-tuition scholarship. I am so glad about it! However, it does not cover a room and board, which will cost me $15,000 every year. Transfering to Ukrainian currency, my parents must pay 449,768 UAH per year. It is a tremendous amount of money for my family. That's why I really count on your understanding and help.

I am very excited to go to college and continue my education. In the future, I want to work in government and be useful to the world. I want to help people, but now I need your help as well. Studying in American college has always been my dream, and now it is the only option I have at least to continue learning. I would really appreciate any help. Please, give me a chance to get a degree and stay in a safe area. It means a lot to my family and me. Thank you!