In a conversation with Denys Miroshnyk, senior at BHS, he opened up on life in America compared to that of Ukraine, covering his transition to the United States, his identity as a Ukrainian, how he has lived and will continue to live his life and his opinion upon the recent Russian- Ukrainian conflict.

In response to his plans post-graduation, Denys talked over his recent commitment to a school to our Northeast in the state of New York: “My plan is to go into the Merchant Marine Academy for security and logistics. Either go into four years, get the maritime degree, or go in as an officer for the marines.”

Speaking on the distinctions he has found between living in America, having moved here in the 4th grade, and his birth country of Ukraine, it became clear how each country differed in regard to Denys.

“In Ukraine, I was taught in a different way of respecting people. Taught around different morals. People in Ukraine understand the struggle, as Ukraine is a super welcoming nation. There’s no such thing as class in Ukraine, being a more heart to heart country. Ukrainian bonds hold less drama. If you’re my friend, no matter the time, no matter the place, I’ll come and fight for you. In America, I love the freedom that I have as a citizen. In Ukraine, you don’t get handed many opportunities there.”

As an American citizen, Denys opened up on his route to the academy, citing that he “wanted to give back to the country that gave him his freedom.” As a rigorous physical regimen that is the military, Denys talked on his relationship to fitness and its importance.

“Working out, most important aspect to every person is getting in shape. Being in shape can protect you from danger, allows you to function better.”

Having played on the Brownsburg football team, specifically the right tackle O-line position, Denys has a history of athletics to support him on his route to the academy.

Following Denys as an individual, we talked about the recent struggle between Russia and Ukraine, with Denys offering insight into the war as a whole as well as his homeland country: “I never thought it could happen. We’re on the brink of warfare and people just don’t know. Social media downplays the effect of the war.”

Commenting on the relations between Russia and Ukraine, Denys acknowledged a correlation between the two countries, citing how the two are not so different, and share a “close culture.” He then went on to cite multiple ties between the two regions, listing heritage, trade and even the mob connections between the two regions.
Denys then went more in depth on his emotions towards Ukraine’s action as both a country and a people.
“Ukraine is such a people that we will not give up, and even if that land were to be taken over by Russia, Ukraine will always be Ukraine. Ukraine rises up from the problems.”

With a few final words, Denys cited a key phrase that he has followed and will continue to follow in his life, and in a sort of speak, being his personal motto.

“Pay attention to details because the smallest thing in life can change the biggest outcome of your life.”

No matter the country, no matter the action, Denys follows his own perspective upon life to which he has formed from both countries, with both the gifts and lessons he’s received from the regions adding to how he goes about living every day.

As the academy is in his horizon, Denys has a lot to look forward to, as he will both get to pursue the fitness that he so greatly admires and uphold the freedom that he so greatly values.