"Life knows where you belong long before you do": A Powerful Speech by AUK & ASU Graduate Emiliia Saranchuk
This year’s graduation ceremony at American University Kyiv featured a truly inspiring and defining moment. On behalf of the entire graduating class of 2026, Emiliia Saranchuk, an AUK-ASU graduate who spent last year in the USA, studying offline directly at Arizona State University (ASU), and who also received her AUK diploma on that day, addressed the community.
She shared a deeply personal and heartfelt reflection on her journey with faculty, honored guests, and fellow graduates,
"A few years ago, I could not have imagined that my journey would lead me to the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University. This past year was not easy; moving to a new country, balancing responsibilities, and stepping far outside my comfort zone challenged me in ways I had never experienced before. But now, looking back, I can confidently say that this experience was worth every challenge.
What I gained there goes far beyond a degree. Most importantly, what I will carry with me forever is the people. Let us always remember: success is not only about where we arrive. It is also about who we become and who walks beside us along the way. Congratulations, Class of 2026!"
This speech was a vivid confirmation of the success of the dual degree program of AUK and Arizona State University.
Adding to the significance of the day, Dr. Rick Shangraw, President of Cintana Education, personally presented the Arizona State University diplomas to the AUK graduates and students in attendance. Alongside their diplomas, they received exclusive commemorative coins sent directly from ASU President Michael Crow.
These degrees represent much more than academic credentials — they are a powerful symbol of the global recognition, academic resilience, and limitless potential of Ukrainian students.
We are incredibly proud of our AUK students and graduates who are redefining global education and building the future today!
