At ISSOS, every summer is a collection of stories – dreams fulfilled, friendships forged, and lessons learned. Last summer, two remarkable students, Nastya and Liza, joined us at ISSOS Yale, bringing their own unique energy and charm to our vibrant community. Here’s a glimpse into their extraordinary journey.
Liza’s Adventure
For Liza, the summer began as a surreal dream. From the moment she set foot on Yale’s historic Branford College campus, she was captivated by the beauty, opportunities, and people around her. Her days were filled with exciting academic classes like Creative Writing and enriching electives like Theatre and Photography.
“Every day brought something new,” Liza shared. “From climbing the iconic Yale clock tower to browsing cozy bookstores – where I promised myself not to buy books but somehow left with three – everything felt like a page out of a storybook. And the people? They made me smile every single day.”
Liza especially loved the community at ISSOS. Whether it was bonding with her roommate Maria, dancing under the stars, or singing with her clan during spirited competitions, she found joy in every moment.
Nastya’s Journey
For Nastya, her first trip to America was transformative. “It felt like stepping into a dream I never dared to have,” she said. Boston’s ocean breeze and Yale’s welcoming warmth captured her heart. Nastya embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm: outdoor lessons, theatre performances, and late-night chants with her clan, MacGregor. “I’ll never forget shouting, ‘One, we are MacGregor; Two, a little louder; Three, I still can’t hear you; Four, more, more, more!’ It was pure joy!”
Her gratitude for this experience shines through in her words: “Svitlo School and ISSOS gave me the chance to explore the world, meet incredible people, and discover the depths of my soul. I’ll carry these memories in my heart forever.”
A Summer to Remember
For both Liza and Nastya, ISSOS Yale wasn’t just a summer school – it was a life-changing adventure. It was a place where they learned, laughed, and lived fully, supported by a community of peers and mentors who inspired them to dream big. To Nastya and Liza, and to every student who has been part of ISSOS, thank you for sharing your stories. Your memories, laughter, and spirit are what make ISSOS the magical place it is.
Discover more about Liza and Nastya's unforgettable journey by reading their personal blog here.
Want to create your own unforgettable memories? Applications for ISSOS Summer 2025 are now open! Don’t miss your chance to experience the summer of a lifetime at Yale, Cambridge, or St Andrews.
Apply now and start your adventure!
