Ukrainian Catholic University students enrich Notre Dame Law School classrooms through ongoing exchange

For the third consecutive year, Notre Dame Law School has continued its academic partnership with the Ukrainian Catholic University (UCU) by welcoming two UCU exchange students from Lviv, Ukraine.

During the spring 2025 semester, Olena Babliak and Ruslana Ivaniura joined the Notre Dame Law School community as part of the ongoing collaboration between the two institutions. Both students brought valuable perspectives to the classroom, shaped by their legal studies in Ukraine and enriched by their immersion in American law at Notre Dame.

Olena was born in Lviv and moved to Kyiv at a young age, spending most of her life in the capital before enrolling at UCU. Ruslana, meanwhile, was born and raised in Lviv, which she proudly describes as “the cultural heart of Ukraine.”

Both women were inspired by their professors to pursue studies at Notre Dame. Olena credits her mentors at UCU—particularly one professor who often shared stories of his experiences in the United States through the Fulbright Program—for encouraging her. “He was so happy for me and Ruslana when we got selected to study at Notre Dame Law School,” she said.

Ruslana echoed that sentiment and said that her constitutional law professor, Dr. Vsevolod Rechytskyi, admires the U.S. legal system and sparked her own desire to study at Notre Dame.

Olena and Ruslana were the only UCU students studying at Notre Dame during this past semester. During their time on campus, they found a strong sense of belonging through the Ukrainian Society Club, which brings together Ukrainian students and those with Ukrainian heritage.

“It was a great way to stay connected to my culture while being abroad,” Ruslana said.

Academically, their coursework at the Law School reflected their diverse interests within international law. Olena was enrolled in Gender Issues and International Law, European Human Rights Law, and Introduction to EU Law courses, and she said that her class on gender issues with Professor Christine Venter, director of the Law School’s Legal Writing Program, was particularly impactful. “It’s so relevant to what’s happening in Ukraine, especially during wartime,” she explained.

Ruslana also found her Gender Issues and International Law course especially meaningful and said that European Human Rights Law was one of her favorite courses for its depth and relevance. “The discussions were thought-provoking, and I valued the diverse perspectives my classmates offered,” she said.

Both students formed meaningful connections with their professors. Ruslana notes a special bond with visiting associate professor of law Esin Küçük from the United Kingdom. “She understands the international student experience so well,” Ruslana said.

Olena found strength in the openness of all her professors. “They were all so approachable and supportive. I always felt safe asking for help.”

Despite the size and long history of Notre Dame Law School, both students find similarities with their home institution. “UCU models itself after top American law schools,” Ruslana said, citing academic rigor and a supportive atmosphere as shared values. Olena added, “It’s about more than just becoming a good lawyer—it’s about becoming a better person.”

Both students embraced their time in the United States by traveling, making friends, and exploring American culture.

Ruslana’s adventures included trips to Chicago, Indianapolis, and Michigan, horseback riding, attending sports games, and even participating in an escape room. “South Bend has a small-town charm,” she said, “but the campus was always buzzing with activity.”

Olena also made the most of her time, visiting New York and Chicago and immersing herself in campus life. “Watching sports games with friends has been one of the most exciting things,” she shared. “And I still can’t believe I’ve seen some of my favorite paintings in real life!”

For both students, Notre Dame’s campus became a place of comfort and motivation. Ruslana described it as “vibrant and welcoming,” while Olena found her study sanctuary in the Hesburgh Library. “Everything here encourages you to study and grow,” she said.

The academic experience at Notre Dame Law School has transformed their understanding of law.

Ruslana emphasized how the United States system encourages critical thinking and open debate.

“There’s more independence in learning here, and students' opinions are valued.” Olena noted that her views on international law have deepened. “Now I understand the importance of looking beyond national borders.”

Adjusting wasn’t without its difficulties. Both Olena and Ruslana cited language barriers, particularly legal English, as a hurdle. But through active participation and support from peers and professors, they steadily gained confidence. “You improve most when you’re outside your comfort zone,” said Olena. Cultural differences, too, have been a learning opportunity. Ruslana remarked on the adjustment of being far from home, but praised the Law School community for making the transition smoother. “Being part of student activities and staying connected with friends back home really helped,” she said.

As they return to Ukraine, both students are bringing back more than just academic knowledge. Ruslana hopes to carry forward the collaborative and supportive environment she’s experienced here. “I want to bring back that culture of openness, and maybe a suitcase full of souvenirs too,” she joked. Olena, too, is returning with a broadened worldview, improved legal English, and new social skills. “This exchange has had a really positive impact on me,” she said. “I’m so grateful.”