Language of the Educational Environment in the Student Community of Odesa National Maritime University (Based on Survey Data)

The article examines the linguistic characteristics of the educational environment among students enrolled in various academic programs at Odesa National Maritime University. The study is based on the results of a questionnaire survey, which made it possible to trace the language preferences, linguistic practices, and communicative behavior of the student community in different contexts and forms of expression: within the educational process, during breaks between classes, in informal communication with friends and family, in the digital space and on social media, as well as when choosing additional literature for reading. In particular, students were asked to answer the question «Which language do you consider your native language?» and to explain what is essential in the concept of «native language». Respondents were also invited to justify the statement that the preservation and promotion of the Ukrainian language is an expression of national identity. The results indicate that Ukrainian serves as the official language of instruction in the university environment; however, a significant percentage of students continue to actively use a non-Ukrainian language in everyday life, especially in informal communication and online interaction. At the same time, a large portion of respondents demonstrated a high level of bilingualism, which allows them to switch between languages depending on the situation and environment — a sign of developed linguistic flexibility and tolerance. It is also noted that the surveyed students represent a generation formed in the 2000s-2010s, a period when language policy did not always clearly aim at affirming Ukrainian as the sole state language in everyday life. In many regions of Ukraine — particularly in the south and east — mixed language forms remained dominant in public discourse, media, the educational environment, and family communication. This linguistic setting became the «norm» for many young people. The author emphasizes the importance of enhancing the prestige of the Ukrainian language, strengthening language culture, and developing students’ communicative competence, particularly in professional contexts.