This day, February 24, 2022, will forever be etched in my memory as the worst day of my life. It was the day when the tranquility of Ukraine was shattered by bombs. I woke up to the sound of chaos, my family gathered in the living room, their faces etched with fear. I was confused and scared, having never witnessed such terror before. My mother’s voice broke through the panic, instructing me to pack a bag with warm clothes. I was frozen, unable to comprehend the situation fully.

The loud noises outside were getting closer. My father urged us to leave our apartment. We lived on the 20th floor, and with the alarm system activated, the elevator was not an option. We descended the stairs to the first floor, a journey that felt like an eternity. The parking lot below was a scene of desperation, filled with neighbors clutching their pets and belongings. Despite the chaos, we managed to reach our car safely.

We drove back home, the uncertainty of our next steps weighing heavily on us. After a restless night, we decided to seek refuge with relatives in western Ukraine. The journey was fraught with danger, the country’s situation worsening by the hour. Eventually, my mother, younger brother, and I found ourselves on a tense and stressful road to Italy, crossing the Polish border where kind strangers helped us secure tickets to safety.

Italy greeted us with its stunning architecture and beautiful landscapes, a stark contrast to the turmoil we had left behind. We stayed there for two months, a brief respite from the fear that had become our constant companion. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, we had to return to Ukraine. It wasn’t long before we embarked on another journey, this time to the United States, where I would finish middle school.

Arriving in Kent, Washington, I faced the daunting prospect of my first day at a new school. Kent-Meridian High School was a melting pot of cultures and languages, a reflection of the world’s diversity. I was overwhelmed. My grasp of English was shaky, and my fear of making mistakes kept me silent. I was a stranger among strangers.

In the gym, amidst the games and activities of the first day, I met Elvira. Her friendly demeanor was a comfort in this unfamiliar place. Then came my first English class, where I met Ms. Bistrica and Yulia, both from Ukraine. Their presence made the school feel a little more like home. Ms. Bystrika’s kindness reassured me that I could seek help whenever I struggled with the language.

History class introduced me to Natasha, another Ukrainian student. At first, we sat in silence, but her friendly inquiry about my name and origins broke the ice. Natasha became my guide, helping me navigate the new programs on my laptop and the school’s routines. Her assistance boosted my confidence, and I realized that asking for help was nothing to fear.

The diversity of Kent-Meridian was intimidating at first, but meeting Elvira, Ms. Bystrika, Yulia, and Natasha showed me that I was not alone. Their friendship and support helped me understand that every student, regardless of their background, has a place in this school. My journey from the war-torn streets of Ukraine to the classrooms of America has been a testament to resilience and the kindness of strangers. It has taught me that even in the darkest times, there is hope for a new beginning.

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