Before the Ukrainian revolution Yulia was a PhD candidate in Ukrainian literature at Taras Shevchenko University in Kyiv.  But after participating in the revolution and experienced first-hand an opportunity for major change, she became adamant to help create a true democracy in her country, create methods of fighting entrenched corruption and anti-democratic practices, and helping develop a transparent and de-centralized government.  Her work as a consultant to the government ministries has given her an opportunity to present new ideas to new leaders, while an opening exists to help formulate government structures and programs.  She hopes to leave Stanford filled with powerful ideas and knowledge for helping implement positive changes in her country.