Against the Odds: Julia’s Pursuit of Education and Impact as a Health Science Student

Julia V., a 39-year-old mother of three from Ukraine, is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in health science at University of the People. Passionate about health and wellness, she has dedicated her life to helping others lead healthier, more active lives, and her academic journey is a natural extension of this lifelong mission. 

“My childhood was filled with love and support from my family. My parents instilled in me a strong work ethic and a belief in the value of education. I was active as a child, enjoying outdoor activities and sports, which sparked my lifelong interest in fitness. For my initial education, I earned a degree in Physical Education and Sport from the National University of Physical Education and Sport in Ukraine. This laid the foundation for my career in fitness and my current studies in health science,” she shares. 

Julia’s path, however, has not been without challenges. Living in a country affected by war has brought uncertainty and financial strain, and as a devoted mother, she has had to balance her education and career with the responsibilities of raising her children. Studying in English, which is not her first language, has added another layer of difficulty. Yet Julia meets these challenges with resilience, careful planning, and unwavering determination to move forward. 

How did Julia find out about UoPeople? “I discovered UoPeople through an online search while looking for flexible, affordable degree programs that would allow me to study while raising my children. The tuition-free model and the flexibility of online learning immediately stood out. I decided to enroll because UoPeople offered a Health Science program that aligned with my passion for wellness and my professional background in fitness. The opportunity to earn a globally recognized degree without financial burden was a game-changer for me, especially given the economic challenges in Ukraine. I found the admissions process straightforward and supportive. I would recommend UoPeople to others, especially those who need a flexible and accessible path to higher education.”  

What Julia values most about UoPeople is its flexibility, which allows her to juggle family, work, and studies without compromise. She also treasures the diverse, global community of students and the practical, thought-provoking course materials that sharpen her critical thinking and communication skills. The encouragement of instructors and peers has made her learning experience both engaging and deeply rewarding. 

Looking ahead, Julia hopes to expand her work in health and fitness by developing online programs and workshops that empower women and mothers to prioritize their well-being. She dreams of writing books and articles on health and wellness to inspire a wider audience and eventually contribute to community health initiatives in Ukraine. 

Outside her studies, Julia remains deeply connected to her passions and her family. “As a mother of three, I’m constantly balancing family, studies, and multiple work commitments. I work part-time as an online fitness trainer, sell items on Violity to support my family, and partner with LR Health and Beauty to promote wellness and beauty products that complement my passion for health. Despite the demands, I stay organized with tools like calendars and to-do lists to prioritize tasks effectively. My children are my greatest motivation, and I aim to model resilience and dedication for them. Studying at UoPeople while managing these responsibilities is challenging yet fulfilling, as it brings me closer to building a meaningful career in health science. With my family’s support and my determination, I remain focused and grounded.” 

As a university dedicated to making higher education accessible worldwide, we are immensely proud of Julia’s journey and her life’s mission, and we wholeheartedly wish her the very best for the future.