"One must have genuine interest in learning and also self-actualize outside the academic environment": YSU student on studying abroad

Anna is enrolled at the Reims campus, located not far from Paris, where the academic focus is on the regions of North America and Africa. At the institute, she is attending several courses on international relations and history, including International Law, Global History of the 20th and 21st Centuries, Crisis and Reconstruction in 20th-Century Europe and North America, and The United Kingdom and the United States: Special Relationship?   

She is delving deeply into the history and institutions of the European Union, while the International Law course acquaints her with the international legal system and the roles played within it by individuals, states, international organizations, and courts. 

"Since the 1970s, with the advancement of human rights, individuals have gradually found their place alongside the traditional and primary subjects of international law—states and international organizations—within the legal system. Individuals have limited legal subjectivity in international law and do not possess law-making functions," Anna explains, highlighting that despite this, the reevaluation of the role of individuals in international law has nevertheless allowed for more effective protection of their rights in case of violations. This includes initiating legal proceedings against states in international courts such as the European Court of Human Rights, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, and the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, following specific procedures.

"In addition to these courses, I am continuing my studies in the French language. I should note that I have been studying French as a second foreign language at YSU for the past three years. Now, at the Paris Institute of Political Studies, I have the unique opportunity to improve my French proficiency in a native-speaking environment," she adds. 

Just as at YSU, Anna also participates in conferences at Sciences Po, where renowned scholars and public figures are invited to speak. She notes that attendance at these conferences is either integrated into course curricula or actively encouraged: "For instance, recently, the university hosted Nadia Murad, the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize laureate and Yazidi activist. Her story was truly moving and inspiring. At times, ambassadors accredited in France, government officials from various countries, and other high-ranking individuals also visit."

The student emphasizes that this is a period in her life where she is striving to gain as much knowledge and experience as possible. She is interested in various aspects of international relations, including interstate relations and diplomacy, international law, international economic relations and the financial system, and international humanitarian activities. "International relations is a field that offers numerous opportunities for specialization and re-specialization. I am trying to explore them as much as possible to make the right decisions now and in the future," she says.

Speaking about the multicultural environment, Anna stressed that although misunderstandings sometimes arise due to cultural differences when interacting with people from different nations, this environment contributes to a person's worldview, the development of a broad mindset, and the ability to find common ground with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Reflecting on the steps that contributed to her decision to continue her studies abroad, YSU student noted, "High academic performance plays a primary role in the prospects of continuing education abroad. One must have genuine interest in learning, stay informed about scientific developments, attend important lectures and conferences, and listen to experts in the field. Furthermore, it is crucial to self-actualize outside the academic environment—participate in volunteer work, internships, and initiate personal projects. In general, one should keep their finger on the pulse of the events and opportunities in the field and remain active."

Presenting the approaches of foreign professors, she emphasized that the connection some professors have with students is slightly more friendly than at YSU. "Although almost all professors at the institute are demanding in terms of both academic work and assessment, there are some who are not hesitant to talk about their personal lives in the classroom, make jokes, and engage in behavior that is unusual to hear in a classroom setting."

Studying at one of the best institutions in France has been an invaluable experience for Anna in terms of both professional and personal growth. "It would be a great honor and responsibility for me to use the knowledge and experience I have gained for the benefit of the diplomatic work of the Republic of Armenia. However, there is still a long way to go before that. I would also like to mention that after obtaining my bachelor's degree, I plan to pursue a master's degree in international relations or another related field."

Anna is convinced that YSU has great potential, and that consistently raising the bar for students will further improve the educational process and its outcomes.