DAAD-Programm "Zukunft Ukraine": Feedback der Stipendiaten und Stipendiatinnen

Lidiia Shumska (MA student):
“This scholarship has truly changed my life, helping me find my place both academically and professionally in Germany. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity - it has not only allowed me to pursue my studies but also relieved me of the heavy burden of financial concerns, at least for most of my Master's duration. Thanks to this support, I can fully dedicate myself to my education, where I believe I have made real progress, and to my voluntary work - advocating for my country, Ukraine, in every way I can. This program has given me the freedom to grow, learn, and contribute, and for that, I am deeply thankful.

Maria Grynevych (PhD student):
“The Future Ukraine scholarship has significantly propelled my research by offering financial support, networking opportunities, and tailored workshops that deepen my theoretical and methodological expertise. Interactions with peers and mentors have expanded my analytical lens, linking my background in pedagogy, law, and media management to a policy-oriented understanding of forced migration. The scholarship’s supportive environment enables me to produce high-quality research with tangible policy recommendations for Ukrainian refugee women — whether they choose to integrate in Germany or return to Ukraine. By applying findings from my comparative analysis (i.e., Germany vs. Poland), I can advocate for targeted measures that address social isolation, cultural maintenance, and psychological well-being.”

Sofiia Riabokon (MA student):
“Overall, my academic journey has been a highly positive experience, particularly thanks to the financial support and job opportunities I’ve received. I’ve had the chance to participate in summer schools and German language courses, which have greatly improved my language skills. The institution I'm affiliated with, as well as other university bodies, have even provided me with financial assistance to participate in academic events, such as conferences, study trips, free time activities and teambuildings. This support has further fueled my interest in Eastern Europe. Additionally, I’m grateful for student initiatives like Junge DGO, which organize informal yet academic events for those passionate about Eastern Europe. Of course, that is a pity that the funding does not cover all the period of the study program but I am still thankful for such an insightful and intense student life. ... I don’t feel that the program overloads students with academic work — it strikes a good balance. The only issue I would point out is the strict deadlines, which I wish were a bit more flexible.”

Andrii Yurtaiev (MA student):
“The scholarship programme was the best thing that happened to me! It opened up opportunities for me to learn new disciplines in Germany, the centre of academic knowledge and my favourite country. Studying at JLU has not been easy, but it has been worth it: I have yet to taste the full range of opportunities that are open to me after my Master's programme.”

"My 'academic journey' began in a difficult time for me, a few months after the start of the full-scale invasion of russia in Ukraine. I am glad that I found the strength to join Prof....'s team and was able to integrate into the academic environment of the JLU Gießen. I think that the Future Ukraine scholarship helped me a lot not only from a financial point of view, but helped me to integrate better in the academic environment. Cooperation with colleagues from GiZo, as well as friendly relations, which arose in the context of this cooperation, diversified my educational process and gave me additional motivation to study." (MA student)

"I am finding that my studies will be taking longer than initially expected (extra 2 semesters into SoSe 2026), but after this adjustment, my load became more balanced and adequate." (MA student)

"In general, I can say that it is very interesting to study at the interdisciplinary scholarship programme, since it builds your capacity in various spheres and later you decide on your own on which one you would like to focus more professionally. I wish I had more time and opportunity to participate at various events and conferences related to my programme. Also, it would be great to have some exchange visits to the Eastern European countries that we're studying at the university so for us to apply the gained knowledge in practice. And it is worth highlighting that the majority of the lecturers of the programme were open to the discussions, informal communication and kept me motivated to learn more." (MA student)

"My academic journey has been both challenging and rewarding, filled with opportunities for growth and learning. The scholarship program has played a crucial role in supporting my education, allowing me to focus on my studies without financial burden. I deeply appreciate the support and resources provided by the program, and I believe it has significantly contributed to my academic and personal development. ... the education in Germany is way more different than in my home country." (MA student)

"I am thankful for the provided scholarship and find this program useful and interesting for my professional development. However, I am currently worried about finishing this programme, as the scholarship does not cover the entire period of our studies." (MA student)

"A scholarship is a great opportunity for students during their studies at the university, especially for Ukrainians who are still learning the language and trying to adapt in another country. What especially helped me in integrating into the university was meeting with students (who have already studied/are studying and know the system inside the university) before start of the semester and meetings to get to know each other. The project coordinator was also very helpful, as she guided and helped find people who would help with questions/problems that arose during bureaucratic issues at the university. It is very valuable to receive help and support during integration at the university!" (MA student)