March 27, 2023
Traveling across the world, Sofiia Mikhailichenko decided to pursue a career in Mathematical Sciences at Shawnee State University.
“I always liked logic, numbers, patterns, shapes, solving problems, etc.,” the Ukraine native said. “And when I was an exchange student and a senior in high school in the U.S., I had an amazing math teacher who made me realize that I like Math! I also understood that a degree in Mathematics opens many doors for lots of different career paths, and that sounded appealing to me because I was still clueless about who I wanted to be in the future. Moreover, many people don’t like Math, even hate it, so I knew there will be a demand for professionals with my degree. I also thought that with this I will be able to help people.”
As an international student on campus, Mikhailichenko connected with several organizations and services on campus to help her navigate college life.
“I am successful because I like SSU, stay involved on campus, and connect to professors and fellow students,” she said. “The university offers many accessible opportunities for students to grow academically, socially, professionally, and mentally. I take advantage of resources and events available to students as well as ask professors and staff for help. I want to especially thank my First Gen mentor Sherri Petrovich, my academic advisor John Whitaker, my senior project advisor Christopher O’Connor, the chair of the Department of Mathematics Phil Blau, and my advisor at work Ryan Warner for consistently helping me through my journey at SSU.”
Collaborating with the Office of Career Services, SSU’s Women’s & Gender Equity Center is celebrating students who “Flip the Script” on gender stereotypes and enter the programs they are passionate about. Throughout the week and into April, the center will be sharing several spotlights to encourage others to “Flip the Script”.