Anastasia Skoryk, a Ukrainian exchange student attending Northmont this year, shares her thoughts on the difference between American and Ukrainian high schools.

Q: Describe the school system in Ukraine.

A: Schools are usually located in the center of a settlement. In the cities there is always public transportation, so it is up to you to reach school independently, whether on foot, by a bus, or by machines. Schools are specialized. Some schools teach the only gifted children for specialties. To enter such schools, children must pass examinations.

Q: Describe the school you attend.

A: My school is specialized on foreign languages and leader skills.

Q: How do you choose your classes?

A: Children have no authority to choose subjects. You usually study 16 subjects a year. We all study Science without exception. However, in Ukrainian schools, we do not have such interesting subjects as theater.

Q: Describe the school day.

A: Subjects do not occur every day. However, even if a subject is not repeated daily, there is homework for each subject. We sit in desks for two people. In our classes, we trade subjects with a neighbor so that we can change books with the neighbor.

Q: What kind of extra-curricular programs do you have?

A: After school, children usually receive out-of-school education. For me, it was art school. Three times a week for four years in art school, you can get an unnecessary diploma, but you get the skills that may be useful to you in later life.  Out-of-school education includes music, art, dance, and sports. Some students also attend education clubs, that can be about anything from design to volunteer work.

Q: What was the biggest difference for you in an American school?

A: In America, I was mostly impressed with the friendliness of the people and their willingness to help. I really appreciate the warm welcome to this school.

Q: How do college plans differ between Ukraine and America?

A: In Ukraine, the first school ends after 9 years of education, then you can go to college. College is an education institution which provides only a basic knowledge of the specialty. For some professions, that is enough. If you want to have a higher specialty, you need to finish secondary education, which is two more years in school and then admission into a University. After graduation, students can take tests in subjects they have chosen for their specialty and can get into a better school In universities, students are paid a stipend depending on their success in school.