Testimonial - Olena Kuzmych
Olena Kuzmych | Ukraine / Greece
My story at the Faculty of Economics and Business, KU Leuven
“I was born in Ukraine but as my parents immigrated several times and finally settled in Greece, I have spent most of my life there. Moving on a regular basis during my formative years has exposed me to a variety of people, environments and cultures. It has broadened my horizons and nurtured my resilience but at the same time left little time to explore myself and to think of what career I would like to pursue.”
“I started to reflect on that when I was getting my art degree in Athens. During my Erasmus exchange I took a class in political philosophy, which sparked my interest in social sciences, and more importantly in economics. Upon my return to Greece I was fortunate enough to do an internship with a mentor who asked the right questions and helped me realise that a degree in business would be the logical next step.”
“I chose this KU Leuven programme because of its rigorous scientific base and its attention to adjacent social sciences, such as philosophy, psychology and ethics courses. I wanted to get a well-rounded education that did not require specialisation too early. The immense support which I received during the application process, and the common-sense attitude of the staff closed the deal for me: I knew that I would study in an environment with a proper cultural fit.”
“As I write this I am in my third year and realize that KU Leuven has exceeded my expectations. This degree provides me with the skills and knowledge that I wanted, and simultaneously challenges me to acquire competencies I did not know I needed - for which I will be eternally grateful. This programme is stretching my limits and challenges me to grow and become a better version of myself.”
“My main take-away of the past years? People matter. Without actually knowing the concept, I have sought out mentors and let them help me shape my future. My awareness of the immense importance of human impact on one’s choices, have inspired me to give back and become a student Ambassador.”