I would like to start my story with a note of acknowledgement, which you will understand later. 

First and foremost, it is Svitlo School, because you opened up this opportunity for me, and I will always be grateful for that. 

Next, the staff at ISSOS summer camp, the administrative office, with whom I was in frequent contact before my arrival, thank you for your support. The cheerful counselors, without whom it would have been boring, thank you for the fun and for being willing to listen at any time of the day. The media team, thank you for the photos that capture the memories. And last but not least, the teachers and coaches, thank you very much for your advice and the knowledge you shared, it was really interesting and enjoyable to learn. 

Thank’s to my friends for the fun. 

Special thanks also to the Tiree group and the MacDonald clan.❤️ 

At the beginning of the story, I want to say that I chose ‘Study Skills’ as my academic subject. There were many questions about what we studied there, but briefly, it was about improving our knowledge of our strengths and preparing for our first year at university. At the end of the three weeks of studying, we took part in debates as judges, as three lessons covered the major components of argumentation, and we also prepared research projects which we presented on the final day and practiced giving and receiving constructive feedback. 

I chose golf as my elective programme, and I could talk about it for hours because the atmosphere was magical and it touched me deeply. It was the first time in my life that I had picked up a club. I had heard a lot about this sport before, but you have to try it to understand what it means to you. I want to mention the beauty of Duke's Golf Course. It was a feeling of unity with nature. Twice on our way back to the bus, we saw deer.

I was also one of three students who received an award. 

We had two trips to big cities. In Edinburgh, we learned about the history of the city, visited the cathedral, and enjoyed the Scottish culture that was evident in the locals. 

In Glasgow, we visited an art gallery and witnessed the filming of Spider-Man with Tom Holland. It was incredible to feel like we were in America for 10 minutes. 

We also visited Glamis Castle, where I saw Highland cows for the first time. They were very cute and beautiful.

We tried to attract them with jazz music, because someone said that it might attract their attention, which almost worked, so this moment is associated with music.

The camp has a slogan: "The experience of a lifetime!".

During my time at St. Andrews, I had that valuable experience, such as being responsible for my own actions and understanding that I represent not only myself but also impressions of my country.

I've also learned to really appreciate the moment and the people around us. 

I have placed my acknowledgements at the very beginning, as without these people, this journey would have been completely different.

May this summer story, written in winter, warm your heart at any time.

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