A Ukrainian exchange student in California seeks to stay in the state

By CNN Newsource

Published March 6, 2023 10:27 AM

By KOVR Staff

KINGS COUNTY (KOVR) — A Ukrainian exchange student in the Central Valley is on a mission to stay in California.

17-year-old Vasilisa Yukno had planned to study in Kings County for a year, but all that changed after Russia invaded Ukraine not long after she arrived in the Golden State.

Now, her host family is looking for ways to keep her in the country, and see her through college as returning home is not an option for her.

“Some kids went home because they live by Poland, or their parents are still in Poland. My parents are still in Ukraine, so I can’t really go home. My city is one hour away from Russia,” Yukno said.

Once she turns 18, Yukno won’t be able to stay through her exchange program. Her host family is trying to find ways to raise money for a new visa.

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Article Topic Follows: CNN - Regional

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