Moving to New York City from Ukraine was a life-changing experience that taught me what it truly means to serve others. As a refugee, I didn’t come here with many resources—but I did bring something more valuable: the Ukrainian mentality of always showing up for the people around you. Back home, helping each other is simply part of who we are, whether it's family, strangers, or other countries. That mindset stayed with me when I came to the U.S., and it shaped how I responded to every challenge. From the moment we arrived, I became the bridge between my family and the world around us. My parents didn’t speak English, so I had no choice but to step up. I translated everything—from government office paperwork to school documents and doctor’s visits. It wasn’t always easy, especially when I was still learning the language myself, but I knew my family was counting on me. I also helped my brother adjust to school in the U.S. I spent nights with him, helping with homework, explaining unfamiliar subjects, and encouraging him when things felt overwhelming as his English wasn't really good and he had challenges to fit into new community. Supporting him academically and emotionally became one of my biggest responsibilities, and I tried really hard to help him. Outside of my family, I found ways to give back to the community that welcomed us. In high school, I joined the Ukrainian Club, where I found not just a space to express my culture, but also people who felt like home. The founder of the Ukrainian club, Ms. Oksana, gave so much of her time to support new Ukrainian students, especially during the most difficult days of the war. I felt a strong desire to give something back to her in return. That’s why I volunteered to help organize club events, prepare materials, assist in lab rooms with setup and cleanup, and support anything else she needed behind the scenes. I was proud to contribute to something bigger than myself, especially when it was a great way to say a huge "Thank you". Besides that, I supported other students from the Ukrainian Club with their homework, classwork, and shared my experience with college enrollment. Many of them were new to the U.S., just like I once was, and I remembered how hard it felt in the beginning. I helped them understand assignments, practice English, and build confidence. Sometimes just sitting next to someone and saying “you can do this” can make all the difference. These experiences taught me that service doesn’t always mean doing something grand. Sometimes, it’s the quiet, consistent efforts—helping your family navigate a new life, showing up for your community, and lifting up your peers—that truly define who you are. I didn’t choose these responsibilities; they chose me. But by embracing them, I’ve grown into someone stronger, more compassionate, and deeply committed to helping others succeed. And that’s what I love about the culture I come from: no matter where we are in the world, Ukrainians always find a way to help. And I plan to carry that spirit with me wherever I go.