Facts & experiences

We are sure you are interested in knowing what would be the student life in Ukraine. We have Hans Stege tell you how he saw student life in Ukraine from his perspective:

"There are currency changing booths at every other corner, so changing U.S. dollars to Gryvnas (UA money) is no problem. The rate fluctuates, though, so shop around if you can. I tried to change it for around 5.40 per dollar. A little money can go a long way. Ice cream costs 100-200 kopeks (100 kopeks in a gryvna), a subway token 50kopeks. Souvenirs are probably the most expensive thing you'll buy.I spent about 400$ during my stay, with about 100$ worth of gifts for people and souvenirs. The subway system is actually pretty good. The ride is cheap, efficient and clean--for the most part. I rode the subway to school everyday. I ended up buying a monthly pass, which gave me unlimited rides for a month for about 30 hryvnas.The subways are quite deep in some places, so the escalator ride down can take up to 5 min. It can be a little daunting at first. The trolley/bus/tram system I never really got used to. Tickets for those cost 50 kopeks one way. It works on the honor system, so ask your friends/family what to do.


Hans Stege from Madison, Wisconsin, USA, High School Semester Program

School really depends. I was the first American to ever visit the school, so I was sort of a celebrity. The school was a lyceum, with grades 1-11. It had maybe 1,500 kids in it. I ended up helping out the English teachers and would talk about culture, holidays, school or whatever to English classes. Try to do as much schoolwork as you can, even if you can't do it well. It was incredibly hard for me to go back to school for real at home. But also, remember to enjoy yourself.

My CD collection increased exponentially in Ukraine because you could buy every CD for 20 hryvnas (a little less than 4$). The CD stands were set up at every subway stop and in markets. I joined the basketball team at my school and had a blast. We won every game except for one and I got to see other school and meet new people, even though I don't play basketball over here and am not very good. I would recommend joining some sport team. I went running a fair amount, but it was hard in the beginning since I got lost and didn't know how to ask for directions. Be careful. Take in the scenery when you're there, walk around, talk to people, read things, just take in the Ukrainain life.

Have fun, good luck"

Hans Stege
Email me if you have anymore questions: hans@newtheory.net