I first heard about Ball State University through my host family. I came to the United States as a high school exchange student in 2021, expecting to stay for just one year. That year turned into four and counting because of the ongoing war in Ukraine. After my exchange year, I took a gap year to pause, begin the college application process, and wait for my new visa to arrive. It was the most difficult and confusing year of my life, but it taught me a great deal about myself.
As an international student from a low-income family in Ukraine, financial aid was my top priority when choosing a university for my undergraduate studies. I remember applying to more than 15 universities during my gap year, not knowing whether I could afford any of them. When I received my admissions decisions, Ball State stood out. It offered the strongest financial aid package, the medium-sized campus environment I wanted, and the academic programs I was looking for. After visiting campus, I felt certain this was where I belonged.
Being admitted to Ball State and receiving financial aid was only one part of the battle. I quickly realized that if I wanted to be financially independent and build the college life I had always imagined, I would need to keep finding additional support and opportunities. I overcame those obstacles by working part-time on campus, securing my first internship in the Spring semester of my freshman year, and becoming a resident assistant my sophomore year. Being part of Housing and Residence Life changed my college experience and who I am forever. It turned me into a confident leader.
I have also been able to travel with friends I met through Debate Club, Economics Club, and Student Voluntary Services. Those experiences broadened my world, strengthened my sense of belonging, and helped me stay focused on my academic and career goals as I built early internship experience in finance and business analytics.
What surprised me most about Ball State is how approachable and welcoming the University and local community are. The city has a rich history, and the art scene offers plenty to explore. I enjoy exploring Muncie—especially the parks and the Cardinal Greenway. My mentor, Rachael Robertson, a grant manager in Sponsored Programs Administration, has been an important source of support, helping me get to know both Muncie and the broader community.
Along the way, I also rediscovered a part of myself by joining Operation Blackout. I never expected to reconnect with the love of dance I had in elementary school, but the inclusiveness, love, and support from everyone in this dance club made me fall in love with performing again.
I would encourage students to explore what genuinely interests them and to pursue opportunities early. Attending meetings for clubs and organizations that spark their curiosity can help them discover where they feel most connected and, over time, open the door to leadership roles. Reaching out to professors and supervisors about opportunities in their major or field is also important. Even if those opportunities are still a year away, expressing interest early can help students stay informed and stay on their professors’ radars..
Ball State would not feel like home without the people who have made it one. So much of who I am today has been shaped by people I love, cherish, and respect. My experience within the Finance major would not be the same without Reza Houston, associate professor of finance, and Chang Liu, assistant professor of finance. They truly love what they do and are always there to help students. I cannot count how many times they have made time to review my resume, share an opportunity, or explain a concept. I am also grateful to the Rinker Center for Global Affairs for giving me opportunities to use my voice to share about Ukraine, and to Vanessa Lanning, director of international student success, for always being there for me. Than Win, residential learning coordinator; Lexie Gibson, assistant residential coordinator; and our Beyerl Residence Hall staff also helped me build a sense of community I can rely on.
I hope to continue building a career in business and technology here in the United States, with the long-term goal of pursuing a master’s degree in economics or finance in Europe.
— Viktoriia Burdiad
