Anton Yushyn dedicated four years to studying Italian at Kyiv's National Linguistic University, but it was the onset of war that imparted the most crucial lesson of his academic life: the importance of prioritizing what truly matters. When he began his studies, Russia had not yet launched its assault, and his primary concerns were socializing and passing exams to satisfy his parents. "Perhaps it's not my goals that have shifted, but my values," Yushyn, now 22, shared with AFP during his graduation ceremony in Kyiv last month. "It was all about parties and enjoyment before. Now, it's crucial to spend more time with family and friends, as they might not be here tomorrow," he explained.

This summer, thousands of Ukrainian graduates from over 300 universities are stepping into a society radically altered by war, with their futures hanging in the balance as the conflict shows no signs of ending. As Ukraine enlists young men to bolster the army's depleted ranks, male graduates anticipate being drafted once they reach 25. The higher education sector has not escaped the ravages of war; numerous educators have fought on the front lines, and a significant portion of educational facilities have been damaged or obliterated by Russian attacks. In December 2022, a missile struck close to Yushyn's university. Yet, on graduation day, the atmosphere at his alma mater was celebratory, with the scent of perfume mingling with the warm summer air as staff and students rejoiced in their achievements amidst historic upheaval.

Student life had only just resumed its normal pace following the Covid pandemic when Russia invaded in February 2022. Universities halted classes, and Korean language student Nikoletta Shova was sent by her parents to Italy to stay with relatives. The 22-year-old described her time abroad as emotionally overwhelming, left in a state of shock about whether she would ever return. Education resumed at most universities shortly thereafter, either online or in person, as Russian troops remained near Kyiv's borders. Shova came back after three months and managed to complete her degree in person while also fundraising for the war with her classmates. Now, with her diploma secured, uncertainty loomed. She was contemplating further studies abroad, possibly in marketing in the USA, but was also open to creative opportunities at home. "Building a future in Ukraine amid the war is feasible," she said, echoing a popular saying to emphasize the need for perseverance: "He who doesn't take risks never drinks champagne." "So, I'm being realistic but with a touch of optimism," she said about her prospects.

Daryna Dekhtiar, another 22-year-old graduate from Kyiv National Linguistic University, felt numb upon Russia's attack. "I didn't shed a tear. I just went into autopilot," she recounted, noting that her friends had been instrumental in lifting her spirits. "We made our own memes, our jokes, which made things much easier," she remembered. Dana Andriichuk, who had already landed an office job by graduation, hurried to meet friends after the ceremony, avoiding thoughts about the comfort of her student days or the looming prospect of a protracted war. "I'm trying to avoid being a pessimist stuck in the past. I want to live in the present, not the future, because we can't predict what's next," she stated. "If the government encourages young people to stay and contribute to building a better future even in a state of war—and society becomes more nationally conscious—then we can consider staying in the country," she added. Like many other male graduates, Yushyn has limited choices due to authorities barring men aged 18 to 60 from leaving Ukraine. Many have fled illegally, with some losing their lives in the process. Yet, Yushyn is prepared to stay.

"Real men don't flee and hide. If the time comes and I receive a summons, I won't evade it," he told AFP. "I can fret, cry, and tremble all I want, but it won't alter the path of a missile," he said. Whatever lies ahead, he doubts he'll use Italian, but is determined to make the most of his time. "I need to use it to the fullest," he concluded.