Anastasia Palamarchuk
The photo I chose shows one of my favourite places back home - the French Boulevard in Odesa, Ukraine. At the picture you can see a long street, full of flowers, with some recreations of famous art works. The memories from my childhood, where we used to walk there every evening, makes this place special for me. Those walks were simple, but they always made me feel calm and connected to home.
Odesa is a beautiful city full of life. It’s known for its humour, resilience, and its spirit of artistry. Every corner of my hometown has a story - from the old opera house to the lively markets filled with people who always seem to find a reason to smile. Leaving there taught me how important it is to stay positive, no matter how hard things might get. My hometown shaped the person I am today. It taught me to value community, creativity, and cooperation - the same qualities that guide me now as I build a life and study abroad.
Being a student from Ukraine in Glasgow is both challenging and exciting. There are some days when I feel homesick. Then I recall the streets of Odesa, my family, and the voices of my friends. At the same time, studying in Glasgow has helped me grow more independent, become stronger, and see things differently.
The Glasgow city has its own unique energy. The buildings tell their own history, the parks are peaceful, and the people are friendly and open. What I like about this city is the combination of old and new - historic places next to busy cafes and shops. I enjoy walking around the narrow streets, taking some pictures of the beautiful landscapes, and the feeling of constant discovery. A new cafe, a peaceful area by the river, or simply a new perspective on the city - there's always something new to find.
Being a Ukrainian student in Glasgow also means carrying my culture with pride. It’s not just about where I come from, but about what I bring with me - the strengths, the perseverance, the creativity that defines Ukrainian spirit. Even far from home, I feel connected to Odesa through the memories and photos that are always with me.
I appreciate that the university of Glasgow gives me the opportunity to connect with people from different parts of the world. I am always curious about new countries, their culture and traditions. It not only shows me new prospectives, but also reminds how much we share in common, regardless of where we come from. In addition, studying Business and Management has shown the importance of collaboration and teamwork. I believe that success is only possible when you appreciate others and embrace diversity.
Reflecting on my experience in both Odesa and Glasgow, I realised that personal growth always comes when you step outside of your comfort zone. Moving abroad was not easy, but it helped me discover strength and resilience I didn’t know I had.
Odesa will always be my home, the place that shaped my heart, while Glasgow is the city that continues to shape my mind. I am aiming to continue building bridges between cultures, sharing my story, and learning from ithers. I will always carry the lessons of my hometown and the experiences I have gained abroad - to stay open, kind, and resilient in everything I do.