Spring 2022

First week

Last Week

Aidin Turganbekov

Home University: American University of Central Asia (AUCA)
Studies at AUA in Spring 2022
Country: Kyrgyzstan, Maevka

Expectations and reality, first week experience

Knowing that Armenia was part of the Soviet Union and is a part of the Eurasian Economic Union, I knew that it will be similar to Kyrgyzstan – underdeveloped and with weak infrastructure. It was similar to Osh, the city we call the “south capital” of Kyrgyzstan. Many hills, colorful buildings, and mainly – friendly people. 

When I first arrived, I ordered a taxi. Compared to the expected language difficulties, we talked with a taxi driver easily with a friendly tone. Armenia and Kyrgyzstan, sharing the same history under the Soviet Union, have similar policies and a common language – Russian. These cultural and political similarities help me to adapt fast and find friends both in university and in the dormitory. 

Apart from the country, my expectations of AUA are grandiose. Although I was a bit shocked by the old campus, I was positively supported that I will be mostly studying in the new building – PAB. The new building, in its turn, is a very innovative and technology-friendly platform for its students to improve their academic motivation and engage in classroom activities. I was quite amazed by the level of English proficiency of EC and PG students – the program with students of which I have common classes. Lastly, I am very grateful to the AUA staff for their friendly welcome and help with a smooth transition, along with the possibility to take MA courses to cover my requirements. This, again, shows how the AUA team is ready to help its students to excel in their present and future academic endeavors. 

Aidin Turganbekov

Home University: American University of Central Asia (AUCA)
Studies at AUA in Spring 2022
Country: Kyrgyzstan, Maevka

Expectations and reality, last week experience

I generally liked my political classes, especially with Master’s students.  In terms of culture, it has been fabulous. I enjoyed Yerevan and was able to travel to many places in the South and North.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Andrea Malikian

Home University: University of Texas, Austin
Studies at AUA in Spring 2022
Country: USA, Texas

Expectations and reality, first week experience 

  1. I did not have very many expectations but was quickly received by the AUA Team with a very warm and friendly welcome. I expected my adjustment to be rockier, but with the help of my professors and classmates, I have found my place here at AUA with ease. University-wide values of innovation and interdisciplinary studies allow me to explore my subject matter, Politics and Governance, through a multitude of perspectives and a wide range of Armenian and international prose. Any expectations I did have were quickly exceeded. 
  2. I have explored Yerevan and found wonderful restaurants, cafes, and museums. The art and music scene are very much alive and growing. I also visited Tsaghkadzor and went skiing for the first time! 
  3. I have met some wonderful friends through my classes and the exchange program. I met my roommate Hélène through the exchange program and I could not have been luckier. Everyone has been extremely friendly and I am sure I will continue to meet many more wonderful people. 
  4. The highlight of my week was getting dinner with the other exchange students, Hélène and Aidin, and one of my classmates, Ophelia. We laughed and shared stories over wonderful plates. The environment here in Yerevan is so lively. Making new memories with new friends in a new place – priceless. 
  5. I experienced challenges with organizing my schedule. Liana and the team at AUA were extremely flexible and resourceful, helping me navigate and balance my schedule with my transferring credits. We were able to quickly and efficiently make adjustments which worked both at AUA and at my home university. 

 

Helene Valat

Home University: Skema Business School, ERASMUS+
Studies at AUA in Spring 2022
Country: France, Bordeaux

Expectations and reality, last week experience

I had a great experience in Armenia. I want to thank the teachers, especially those who are very involved in the success of their students and are always available to talk and help with the different group projects. Yerevan is a lively city with so many events going on and great places to discover. If winter put a halt on many activities, spring brought back the option of many hikes, festivals, and other outdoor activities. I discovered so much in a few months and I’m very thankful I was given this opportunity. Thank you AUA for this semester.