IVANA ŠUŠKOVIĆ – A MODEL OF THE FUTURE WE NEED

From an early age, chemistry and laboratory work were more than just school subjects for Ivana Šušković from Stanari—they were a clear path forward. Today, she is walking that path with remarkable success as one of the top students at the Faculty of Technology, majoring in Chemical Engineering, with an impressive GPA of 9.0.

PHOTO: Dražan Pozderović / Nezavisne novine

In an interview, Ivana recalls that before enrolling in university—where she is now in her third year—she considered several study options, including General Chemistry and Pharmacy.

“After researching all the options in more detail and getting a better understanding of what each offered, I realized that the Faculty of Technology provides the broadest opportunities and the best balance between theory and practice. That ultimately made my decision easier,” she explains.

The Road to Academic Excellence

While her academic record reflects outstanding achievement, Ivana admits that both reaching and maintaining a high GPA is far from easy.

“It becomes even more challenging as you progress through your studies because the material gets more demanding. However, from the very beginning, I set high standards and clear goals for myself. Combined with consistent work, that has been key to my success,” she says.

She emphasizes that discipline and hard work are essential.

“Talent matters, but without effort and dedication, it cannot fully develop. From my experience, results come primarily from persistence and continuous work,” Ivana adds.

Balancing Life and Future Plans

Despite the demands of being a top-performing student, Ivana manages to maintain a healthy balance between her academic responsibilities and personal life.

“I don’t neglect spending time with friends, going out, or taking time to rest. I just know my priorities, and everything somehow falls into place. Maybe I sacrifice a bit of sleep sometimes, but that’s a classic student story,” she says with a smile.

In her free time, she enjoys watching movies and TV shows, and she often attends theater performances.

Beyond her formal education, Ivana actively participates in extracurricular activities, which she believes are crucial for personal and professional development.

“Through these activities, students can fully express their potential and gain recognition. That’s why I think it’s important to take part in such projects and seize every opportunity,” she notes.

A Step Toward the World

This year, Ivana is taking her ambitions beyond borders. She will participate in the “Work and Travel” program in Niagara Falls.

“I’m not exactly sure what to expect since I’ve heard many different experiences, but I’m especially excited about meeting new people, experiencing American culture, and visiting New York,” she says.

Although this trip will be temporary, Ivana remains open to pursuing opportunities abroad in the future.

“I’m absolutely open to all possibilities. I would like to gain experience abroad, but I also believe that knowledge can be brought back and applied here,” she explains.

She also plans to continue her education by enrolling in a master’s program, though she is still considering the timing.

“I’m not sure if I’ll continue immediately after graduation. I think it’s beneficial to take a short break, gain some work experience, and see which direction truly suits me,” she says.

The Strength of Family Support

Ivana comes from a family of five, and she highlights the importance of their support in her journey.

“Sometimes that support also brings a certain pressure not to disappoint them, but what matters most is that they are always there for me. Especially my mother, who has patiently gone through all my dilemmas and challenges with me over the years,” Ivana concludes.

With her dedication, discipline, and clear vision for the future, Ivana Šušković stands as a powerful example of the kind of young people shaping a brighter tomorrow.