HAWK student from Ukraine honored for outstanding commitment
The Prize of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is awarded once a year to international students who distinguish themselves through excellent academic performance and outstanding social commitment. The award, valued at 1,000 euros, is funded and presented by the HAWK International Office. Ryhal impressed not only with her academic achievements but also with her remarkable social engagement – particularly after the outbreak of the war against Ukraine.
After completing a degree in chemical process engineering and gaining several years of professional experience, she decided to expand her expertise with an architecture degree. She came to Germany in 2019, improved her German language skills through HAWK language courses, and began her bachelor’s studies in 2021, which she successfully completed this year with good grades.
Especially after the start of the war in Ukraine, Ryhal became deeply involved in building a support network for refugees from Ukraine together with fellow students. She took on translation and interpretation tasks, helping prospective students among the refugees to find their way. For many, she became an important contact and intermediary – assisting with arrival in Germany, accompanying them to counseling sessions, and facilitating access to information events related to studying.
Ryhal also played an active role in organizing events such as “HAWK open for Refugees” and special information sessions for prospective students from Ukraine. “She not only helped break down language barriers but also actively contributed to an open and supportive atmosphere that is incredibly important for newcomers,” says Annika Tiefel, Head of the International Office at HAWK.
On her initiative, international students came together at HAWK’s “Café International” for intercultural film evenings followed by discussions. In DAAD-funded projects such as “HAWK open” and “Studienstart plus”, she worked as a student assistant. She also participated in city events such as the “Day Against Racism” and the “Day of Democracy” in Hildesheim, contributing her intercultural perspective. “Ms. Ryhal embodies in an exemplary way the values recognized by the DAAD Prize: academic excellence, social responsibility, intercultural competence, and personal initiative,” says Tiefel. Yevheniia Ryhal is now pursuing her master’s degree in architecture.