Since February this year, Seda Vagharshyan, a PhD student at the YSU Faculty of Law, has been conducting research at the University of León in Spain within the framework of the Erasmus+ international academic mobility program (KA171). She is enrolled in the multidisciplinary doctoral program "Legal Responsibility".
During her stay at the University of León, Seda has not only been engaged in academic research but has also actively participated in academic events, study visits, and scholarly discussions on constitutional law and legal philosophy, becoming a full-fledged member of the international academic community.
"I would like to thank the YSU International Cooperation Office and my faculty, as without their professional and effective support, this would have been much more difficult," Seda said, highlighting the high level of organizational support provided by the program.
She stressed that her academic supervisor at the University of León, María Esther, as well as the academic staff, stand out for their care and support.
"They are always ready to help with any issue, including non-academic ones, which is especially important in a foreign academic environment," she noted.
At the same time, studying at the University of León has provided her with the opportunity to build not only professional but also personal connections. The international academic environment brings together students from different countries, fostering intercultural communication and exchange of expertise.
"There are many international students here from Brazil, Mexico, the United States, and this is a great opportunity to build new connections, learn about different cultures, and broaden one's worldview," Seda said.
One of the cultural differences she found notable is the form of communication within the university, where students address lecturers informally by first name, which differs from Armenian academic traditions.
Nevertheless, she believes this experience is a unique opportunity for both professional and personal growth.
"Although there are challenges, they do not affect the fact that this is one of the best experiences for becoming more resilient and getting to know yourself better," she said.
According to Seda, the opportunities provided by Yerevan State University, including the Erasmus+ program, become an important platform for students to gain international experience, develop new knowledge and skills, and broaden their worldview.
