When Tanya fled the war in Ukraine with her mother in the winter of 2022, she brought with her an unwavering determination to pursue a career in cybersecurity and software engineering. Now a proud Tamar Engineering Project (TEP) scholar, she’s building a new life in the UK and thriving at the University of Plymouth.

“Coming from a background with financial struggles, followed by war conflict and immigration, the scholarship has been a huge help during a very stressful time,” she says. “It’s not only financial support, it’s emotional and professional support too.”

Tanya’s passion for technology began early. “I was always curious,” she recalls. “I taught myself to use Linux, build websites on GitLab, and learn React. I’ve even explored psychology and human-computer interaction—because understanding people is as important as understanding code.”

In Ukraine, she graduated from school with top honours and a gold medal. After relocating to the UK, she continued to excel, earning the Student of the Year award at Exeter College in 2023. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new country, language, and education system, Tanya has maintained her focus: “My aim is to become a skilled engineer and contribute to a better future.”

She is now thriving on her Computer Science degree, supported by the Tamar Engineering Project. “The financial support has helped me reduce my hours at work, which means I’ve had more time for learning, reflection, and attending lectures consistently,” she explains. “It’s also allowed me to buy essential books and course materials, including titles on psychology, design, and technology, that have deepened my knowledge across disciplines.”

Tanya has also used the funding to improve her academic life more broadly: “I was able to save enough to move to a new home closer to campus this September, which I know will make a big difference to my focus and energy.”

Professionally, Tanya has begun to build confidence and connections. “Being matched with a mentor was inspiring,” she says. “It helped me explore new job opportunities and develop a more strategic approach to my future.” She’s already travelled to London to visit the offices of companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and The Walt Disney Company. “The scholarship helped cover travel and buy business clothing for these visits. I also took some online webinars in public speaking and leadership, to improve my soft skills.”

At Plymouth, she’s also finding her place in the student community. “The mentoring events have connected me to people across the university. Meeting my mentor, academics, and fellow students at the celebration event really boosted my confidence,” she says. “I feel like Plymouth is becoming a kind of family. Next year I plan to join more societies and build relationships with my professors too.”