Viktoriia Hladiuk
Creative Media Productions, Class of 2028
From Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine
I am passionate about telling stories, and I believe OU has all the resources I need to become a professional who can raise awareness about communities affected by political conflict. I believe that awareness and understanding are the first steps toward change. I want to help create space for that change to happen—whether through creative filmmaking or by being involved in politics. International peace means everything to me. I want to make sure that future generations never have to experience the horrors of war the way I—and so many others I know—have.
As a passionate storyteller and first-year creative media production major, international freshman Viktoriia Hladiuk has spent her first year at the University of Oklahoma creating a foundation for a future propelled by purpose. With every film she creates, Viktoriia moves closer to achieving her dream of inspiring positive change through storytelling, especially for communities affected by political conflict.
"OU has all the resources I need to become a professional who can raise awareness about communities affected by political conflict, war, and displacement," Viktoriia said. "Since my very first class, faculty at the Gaylord College of Mass Communication and Journalism have encouraged me to take action in my professional field."
That encouragement led to a series of firsts—her first short films, her first creative network built by her classmates and industry professionals, and her first job as a digital media intern with OU's International Admission and Recruitment team.
Viktoriia's path to OU began in her small hometown in Ukraine, where her childhood was impacted by war. That experienced sparked her desire to be a changemaker, and it led her to apply for the United World College (UWC) scholarship through the Ukraine National Committee.
"I was deeply inspired by UWC's mission of education as a path to international peace," Viktoriia said. "I want to become part of a peacemaking community and make a difference through peace, awareness, and education. It used to feel like a dream, to go to another country, share my culture, and live alongside hundreds of international students. But that dream became a reality, and it led me to the University of Oklahoma."
Though she's more than 5,000 miles from home, Viktoriia has never felt alone. Whether it's through one of OU's 500+ student organizations, her UWC network, or the dedicated faculty and staff on campus, she has a found a community that continues to uplift her.
"Every event, lecture, and organization I've been involved with has impacted me in meaningful ways," Viktoriia said. "Even though it's only been a year at OU, I feel like I'm ready to take on life."
This year, Viktoriia was honored with the prestigious Provost's PACE Award, which recognizes the top 1% of OU students for their academic achievement, leadership, campus involvement, and service to others. For the OU freshman, it was a moment of affirmation.
"It showed me that I'm in the right place surrounded by the right people," Viktorria said. "The award reminded me of how amazing the people in my life are. From my very first day at OU, they've stood by me through every challenge."
Back home, Viktoriia's parents are filled with pride for their youngest daughter.
"They still can't believe their daughter, from a small town in Ukraine, is across the ocean in the U.S., studying at the University of Oklahoma," Viktoriia said. "They're especially proud that I did it all on my own."
To future students considering OU, Viktoriia has a simple piece of advice: "If your inner voice is telling you to come to OU, listen to it. That voice will lead you somewhere amazing."
