Early Years

       I was born on August 28, 1988 into a long line of steel plant workers, with a strong desire to live. This was my first victory and I was named Victoria. I have proved this name many times. My upbringing demonstrated a classic example of good parenting. In my early years, I enjoyed a carefree life because my parents were lenient and gave me a lot of freedom. The trust of people I was close to developed a strong sense of responsibility in me for my actions, which kept me from a lot of mistakes. When I was 3, because of my great need to socialize, I went to kindergarten, where I received a good preschool education and met a lot of people who proved useful later in my life.

School Years

       On September 1, 1995, I went to my very first "First Bell" (a traditional ceremony which opens the school year) at School № 7 in the town of Yenakievo, Ukraine. My new classmates were already old friends, so we all got along well and soon were recognized as the best class in the school. This honor gave us the opportunity to participate in many city and regional events. During my school years, I tried my hand at being an outdoorsman, a volunteer, a "junior" (child) traffic cop, a "junior" doctor, a contemporary dancer, and other things-and enjoyed them all. Every year, city competitions interrupted my regular life for a month or so. Performing well and winning awards ensured these interruptions occurred year after year. Nevertheless, my busy schedule didn't prevent me from graduating with honors. But I soon realized that this award had no value and that success in life doesn't depend on one's grades.

University Years

       In 2005, I passed my entrance exams and became a student in the faculty of Physics and Metal Science at the Donetsk National Technical University. My choice of major was impromptu. Maybe, it was meant to be. I broke my promise to not study simply for grades, which don't get you anywhere. But my ambitious character, which drove me to strive for excellence, wouldn't let me be forced to retake any exams. When I graduated I had the highest average grade in my group and decided to take graduate studies. During my undergraduate studies I received only one grade of "3"-in Physical Chemistry, which deprived me of getting an Honors diploma, but not of a good mood. In spite of the heavy course load, I found time for a second (Economics) diploma, studying English at a school called ARPI, and an active dorm life.

The Future

       I am laying plans to make my personal "American Dream" come true-a strong family, good job, big dog and a lawn in front of my house, with barbecues on weekends. Investigating the efficacy of thermal and thermomechanical treatments for strengthening high-zinc single phase brass.