Ukrainian students are living parallel lives as they handle the pressures of a war raging on their homeland while simultaneously attending public high school every day, where life continues as usual. 

“Going to school the first morning after hearing the news that Russia declared war was just a nightmare. I came to school completely sleep-deprived and was unfocused the entire day trying to hold back tears,” said junior Anastasiia Goi. “I would check my phone throughout the school day every five minutes, constantly refreshing the news app. It was hard to concentrate on assignments when the only thing I could think about was innocent people dying in Kyiv and whether my family was safe. It definitely made school assignments seem insignificant.”

Alongside the sudden insignificance of school, students also struggle with the immense emotions accompanying war. With over two million refugees fleeing the country for safety, the international community and Ukrainians from around the world are watching in bewilderment. 

“My initial reaction was a state of shock. I know there has been a war on the eastern front for the past seven years, but I just never thought it would get to this point, to a full-scale invasion,” said Goi. “My heart immediately dropped because I was scared for my family and friends and the independence of my country.”

Ukraine has faced tensions with Russia since the fall of the Soviet Union. In 2014, tensions escalated as Russian separatist regions arose on the eastern front of Ukraine. Now the lines of international alliances and international relations, accompanied with aggressive military tactics from Russia have entangled Ukraine in the center of a war.

“It obviously hurts to see a country that has fought so hard for its independence, throughout its entire history, to have someone so hateful and evil just destroy people,” said Goi. “Innocent people are dying, it’s genocide at this point, and if it’s not one yet, it’s on the brink of one.”

Despite the events happening in Ukraine, onlookers are trying to rally spirits as they participate in peace rallies and protests outside the White House, advocating for military and economic intervention. Lifting morale and showing solidarity are common themes among organizations trying to help the conflict but unable to help on the battlefield. Counselors are also aiding this effort as they continue to advocate an open environment for students to express their worries, especially during this time of uncertainty. 

“This has shown me that no matter what, Ukrainians will fight, and they will fight to their last breath to protect and preserve their culture and independence,” said Goi. “It makes me proud to be a Ukrainian.”