Julia Ikonnikova – Los Angeles, California
Kyiv Post: Where are you from in Ukraine?
Julia Ikonnikova: Kyiv
KP: When did you leave; why did you leave?
JI: I came to US in January 2002 to study. I had a decent life in Ukraine and just wanted to expand my horizons and see what else is out there besides the life I know.
Plus I watched all the American movies and TV shows (Beverly Hills 90210, in particular) and really wanted to experience that kind of lifestyle. Believe it or not, I’m living it now.
KP: How did you end up in America?
JI: I came to the US to study on athletic scholarship, after graduation moved to Los Angeles, found the job and lived here ever since.
KP: Do you ever regret that you are not in Ukraine – why or why not?
JI: No I don’t. What’s there to regret? I can come back any time I want.
KP: What do you miss most about Ukraine?
JI: My closest friends and family.
KP: What do you miss least about Ukraine?
JI: All the goverment bullshit, people’s rudeness and constant unstable economical situation (it’s not like it’s too stable in US at the moment but still….can’t complaine comparing to the rest of the world). Oh yeah also climate can’t stand cold weather.
KP: Does America have more opportunities for you than in Ukraine?
JI:It’s hard to tell since it’s been almost 10 years and I don’t wan to go by what other people have to say. I’m sure there are opportunities everywhere. The question is how many obstacles you have to face to realize them? if we are talking business opportunities, I think there would be way more obstacles to face in Ukraine.
KP: What relatives/friends are left back in Ukraine?
JI: All relatives and most of the friends. The good thing is I was able to make great friends here.
KP: Do they visit you or do you visit them? Often?
JI: We visit each other, but I visit them more often then they visit me. I would visit once a year in the beginning. I don’t go there as often any more. Try to explore the rest of the world.
KP: With Ukraine coming up to its 20th anniversary of national independence, how do you feel about your homeland? Is it making progress as a nation? Or not so much?
JI: It definitely makes progress in some areas and it is stuck in the stone age in the others.
KP: What would it take for you to return?
JI: Either mind-blowing LOVE or an absolutely AMAZING career opportunity. Could also be family emergency.
KP: What do you wish for your country?
JI: The same I would wish for anybody….growth, prosperity and luck!!!
KP: Do you think that wish will come true?
JI: Of course! What’s the point of wishing otherwise?
