On November 28, in Congress Center of SumDU were announced winners of the regional stage of the Student of the Year 2019 competition. Two representatives of the Faculty of Foreign Philology and Social Communications of SumDU were the winners: Karina Khachatarian became the best student in the media field, Inna Kravchenko was recognized as the best student-volunteer. We talked to the girls and learned how to be successful in their area of work.

- How is it to be a "student of the year"?

Karina: I don’t have the feeling that I'm the "best media student." As usual, I wake up at six, go to university, sometimes I'm late for classes. I still like to study. No external factors have changed, except, of course, a new diploma and a statuette on the shelf. Changes have taken place inside - now I’m extremely motivated, I want to work more and more. Especially, when I see that I can.

Being a "student of the year" is, first and foremost, a responsibility. Responsibility to be an example ... It is a sense of gratitude for the right upbringing, for the school knowledge provided, for the incredible support of the lecturers, for believing in me.

Inna: Nothing has changed - I'm a regular student. But it's nice that my work was noticed. However, at first, it was a big surprise. Such victory adds motivation.

- Was this the first award in the field of your work?

Inna: Under my belt, there is a letter of mayor for the development of volunteer work in Sumy, as well as a certificate for the development of volunteering at the Faculty. However, recognizing myself as the best student is the most important for me right now.

Karina: The Student of the Year is by far the most important award for me. I am also proud of the Certificate of Summer School of Journalism of the Day - 2017 and diplomas for winning on All-Ukrainian stages of various competitions and student Olympiads.

- How much time do you spend studying and relaxing?

Karina: Honestly, this year I am probably working more than all the years before combined together. Whether because of graduation year, or just the work influences. In general, I’m up to my eyes in “journalism” - in the morning I am at university, in the evening I’m working. I am short of free time, but I do not complain, because I know what I'm doing it for. And I like the phrase "What today is a record, tomorrow will become the norm".

Inna: I combine studying and volunteering. There are no separate timeframes. Sometimes different events occur every day during the week, sometimes - once a week. I have time to rest. I try to plan my workday properly, it helps to have time to study, rest, and implement various projects. In general, volunteering is an integral part of my student life that I will always find time for.

- How does the Faculty help to develop professionally?

Inna: My Department of Psychology, Political Science, and Socio-Cultural technologies are very helpful. I can take part in different events or organize my own. I know I’ll find support here.

Karina: The Faculty is interested in the quality development and professional growth of a student - this is for sure. Of course, I have huge support from my Department of Journalism and Philology. First, I never felt the lack of opportunities: I wanted to try to write - I wrote on websites and for “Resonance”, radio and television studios, we are also always open. Secondly, I will always be grateful to the Head of the Department, Olena Tkachenko: I asked her advice ten times - she never refused, taught and provided with professional and personal support.

- Some tips for students who are just about to be students?

Karina: There are two things to remember: first, thoughts are material, and second, there is nothing impossible. If a student wants – he/she can! I know this well. And we do not need any excuses, saying, "I have a job", "there is not enough time". In this case, the desire it’s what is not enough. And when you dream or aim for the goal with a burning passion, the whole world helps you to achieve it.

Inna: Don't be afraid! Try yourself in different areas. Volunteering has given me many friends, I have been to various events, I constantly hear something new and useful that I can then use in life and share with others. I believe that each of you is a future winner!

We thank the girls for their candid talk and extremely helpful advice. You need to believe in your dream and be courageous on the path to your goal, and then the Faculty of Foreign Philology and Social Communications of SumDU will always support and help to unlock the potential of every student.

Oleksii Tucha, student of the group ZhT-71