Gherman celebrates academic success after fleeing Ukraine

A talented Ukrainian teenager is celebrating academic success after fleeing war-torn Dnipro and having to leave behind his family following the Russian invasion.

Gherman Lovchynskyi moved to Exeter without his parents and younger brother in 2022.

Two years on he is preparing to become a university student in Exeter, the city he arrived in after leaving Dnipro.

The 19-year-old, who dreams of setting up his own fashion company, enrolled in Exeter College when he arrived in May 2022. After taking a Btec Level 2 Business course he was inspired by conversations with other students to take an access to university diploma in business. This September he will enrol in a marketing degree at the University of Exeter.

Gherman’s father Dmtryi, an accountant, and mother Julia, are living in Dnipro with his younger brother Lev, 9.

Gherman said: “Despite the events of the past two years I’m ok. You have to keep going. I have plans for the future. I want to work in marketing in the fashion industry, hopefully setting up my own business where I would create a community of talented people to design for my own boutique.

“The pathway course was very useful in preparing me for university life, particularly the study skills needed.”

Gherman and other students took part in the Mature Access Pathway, run by the University of Exeter and Exeter College to provide access to specialist information and advice for those returning to education.

The pathway allows students to experience what university life is like and polish their study skills through workshops, talks, and on-campus activities. There is also access to academic staff, mentors, and current undergraduate students who have given information, advice, and guidance they need to make an informed decision about their future.

The course was set up after University of Exeter analysis showed mature students can lack confidence in applying to higher education and often prefer to study for a degree locally. The review showed the need for mature students to meet those in the same situation and to get targeted information about finances and life as an undergraduate.

It includes social events and advice about money and living matters. It also includes help on how to choose the right course. It forms part of the timetable of all Access to Higher Education students at Exeter College.

Billy Gelo, from Torquay, who took part in the pathway, dropped out of sixth form and spent several years struggling with drug addiction. He tried to return to education four times and worked in hospitality and retail. Now 21 he worked as a bar supervisor while completing his Access to Business course. He has a place to study accountancy and business at the University of Bristol this year.

Billy said: “This year has been hard. The course has been the most work I’ve done in my life. The plan is to become an accountant and eventually open my own pub. I’m going to work part time while at university and have a year abroad in Italy and I’m hoping to spend time working in Europe.

“The pathway gave me really comprehensive advice which was really worth knowing.”