Volodymyr Gain: An Intercultural Journey

With a clear goal of studying economics, marketing and entrepreneurship, Volodymyr has begun charting a path that aligns with his passions. His high school background in the Option Internationale du Baccalauréat (OIB), a rigorous equivalent to the International Baccalaureate, prepared him well for the challenges of college life. 

In his first semester, he’s found the courses to be both fulfilling and manageable. “The workload is reasonable,” he says, “though I know it’ll ramp up next semester.” Beyond academics, he is pleased with the relationships he’s built with professors. “They’re not just good at what they do—they’re great people, too,” he says. 

For Volodymyr, life at AUP is so much more than sitting in a classroom. He’s intensely involved in extracurricular activities, which he sees as integral to his overall experience. As a first-year representative in the Student Government Association (SGA), he’s part of the events committee, where he helps plan and put on events that bring the community together.  “SGA is such a good space to test your skills—planning, management, leadership, public speaking,” he explains. “It’s more than just an elected role; it’s a chance to learn and to grow.” 

In addition to Student Government, Volodymyr is an active member of several clubs, including the Wine Society, the Boxing Club and the Eastern European Union. His love for music has also been put to use since joining the AUP community—he’s a DJ for university events and plans to specialize in the business side of music.

As one of the few French students at AUP, he appreciates the added value of such an international education. “It’s such a good option for French students because you meet people from all over the world, not just socially, but for building future connections.” 

Living independently in Paris, however, has been an adjustment. “Balancing AUP life with normal life isn’t always easy,” he admits. “Living on your own and settling into a new city right after high school can be challenging.” But he encourages others to live the experience fully. “Go out into the city, embrace French culture and language,” he encourages. 

Though only in his first year, his AUP journey has already provided him so many unique opportunities. He attended the First-Year Seminar study trip to the Loire Valley, which he describes as a highlight of his first semester. He also credits AUP with pushing him outside his comfort zone.  “AUP is a community that opens so many doors,” he says. “It forces you to grow, to connect, and to see the world from a broader perspective.” 

While his academic and career goals are ambitious—he plans to enter the events industry and combine his interests in music and business—Volodymyr seems to truly appreciate the time as a student, capitalizing on everything offered to him. “Every part of this experience has helped me learn something new, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next.”