A Ukrainian refugee who fled the war has started university after achieving top grades at a school in Hook. 

Sofia Kulynych arrived in the UK in May 2022, escaping the conflict in Dnipro with her mum and 18-month-old brother.

Her stepdad, who decided to stay and fight, urged them to leave for their safety.

The family was welcomed by a host family in North Hampshire, and Sofia was offered a fully funded place at Lord Wandsworth College (LWC).

READ MORE: Nursery celebrates National Fitness Day with obstacle course and yoga

Sofia arrived in the UK in May 2022 (Image: Lord Wandsworth College) She admitted feeling nervous upon arrival in the UK due to her limited English skills.

She said: "I was a bit scared about meeting new people and making friends."

However, with the support of her host family, college staff, and fellow students, Sofia overcame the language barrier.

She said: "I made really good friends and everyone was so supportive.

"Over time I didn’t need dictionaries or Google Translate anymore."

Sofia recently moved to the University of Bath to study politics with economics, after achieving three A*s and one A in her A-levels.

SEE MORE: Young Reporter Scheme continues to inspire young people

She said: "Coming to England and to LWC changed my life.

"It now feels like two different lives: me here and me in Ukraine."

Earlier this year, Sofia and her family moved into their own home in Church Crookham.

She has been able to visit her relatives in Ukraine over the summer.

She said: "People keep living; they go to the cinema, they go to cafes, but you’re constantly thinking about air sirens and bomb attacks.

"I’m so glad I made the move here, even though I miss my family and wish I could see them more often."

Reflecting on her initial culture shock, she said: "One of my favourite books is Harry Potter and when I used to describe England to my family and friends in Ukraine, it was sometimes easier to refer to that book."