New language, new country, new opportunity: Foreign students complete preparatory courses at YSU

A year ago, three young students from China and Iran could hardly have imagined that Armenian would become their everyday spoken language, that the roads and streets leading to Yerevan State University would grow familiar and dear, and that the university itself would become a key academic institution in their lives. Today, they stand at the threshold of a new chapter, having successfully completed the preparatory courses at Yerevan State University.

Each year, dozens of students from various corners of the world apply to Yerevan State University, seeking not only to receive specialized education within the Armenian higher education system but also to study the Armenian language, become acquainted with Armenian culture, and deepen their understanding of Armenia.

A key role in this process is played by YSU Preparatory Courses Department, which creates an effective learning environment for Armenian language instruction alongside general educational programs in subjects such as mathematics, history, chemistry, biology, geography, foreign languages, and more. The purpose of these preparatory courses is to support individuals who do not yet master Armenian in developing their language skills and acquiring foundational knowledge in their professional subjects, thereby ensuring their adaptability and readiness for the academic process at YSU.

Lilit Gasparyan, Head of the Preparatory Courses Department at YSU Center for Admissions and Affairs with Applicants, speaking about the department’s work with foreign students, noted: "During the first semester, they intensively study and learn Armenian, followed by the subjects necessary for exams. They not only learn the Armenian language but also explore our culture, travel within Armenia, and build friendships with our Armenian students, which greatly facilitates their full integration into the university environment."

At the concluding event of the preparatory courses, Armenian language lecturer Simon Petrosyan offered his congratulations, conveying warm words to the students: "I sincerely hope that you will be progressive, love, and develop the Armenian language, which connects you to our culture and identity. May your professional path be full of successes, and may this important stage be just the beginning of your achievements."

Following this, the international students delivered beautiful speeches in Armenian, expressing their gratitude, sharing their impressions, and reciting excerpts from their favorite Armenian poets, including Hovhannes Shiraz and Hovhannes Tumanyan.

Three students from China and Iran have successfully completed the preparatory courses at Yerevan State University. Among them is Mohammaderfan Taheri from Iran, who now speaks Armenian fluently and confidently. He plans to continue his education at YSU Faculty of Informatics and Applied Mathematics in the bachelor’s program.

"I learned Armenian right here at Yerevan State University, thanks to our kind and supportive lecturers. I hope to continue my studies here and, in the future, work in Armenia as well. I had heard from friends that YSU is one of the best universities in Armenia, and that convinced me to apply," says Mohammaderfan Taheri, adding that his favorite spot on campus is the fountain area near the university’s Central Building, where he enjoys sitting and relaxing.

He describes YSU in three words: professional, warm-hearted, and beautiful. He shares sincerely that he has grown fond of nearly every corner of Armenia, with particular admiration for Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery. In addition to traveling, Taheri says he greatly enjoys listening to Armenian music, which, in his view, deepens his understanding of Armenian culture.

Zhou Gaoshun from China, who also goes by his Armenian name Yerjanik (meaning "happy," the literal translation of his Chinese name), is preparing to continue his education in the "TV Journalism" master’s program at YSU Faculty of Journalism. He speaks Armenian with calmness and impressive confidence. He aspires to become an experienced journalist.

"My Armenian friends help me a lot — they teach me new words and expressions. They often use the word 'jan.' When they say 'Yerjanik jan,' it makes me feel happy. People here are so kind," he says with a smile.

Another student from China, Zhang Yuhong, who goes by the Armenian name Astghik, is an incoming master’s student at the Faculty of Informatics and Applied Mathematics. She shares her impressions warmly, highlighting her deep affection for the Armenian language.

"I’ve truly come to love the Armenian language. It sounds beautiful and carries deep layers of meaning. Our lecturers are not only experts in their fields but also caring individuals," she notes.

Although these students will soon begin academic paths in different faculties and disciplines, they are united by a shared journey — a path of learning and personal growth. They will not only continue to develop professional skills but also gain a deeper understanding of the Armenian language, gradually uncover the country’s culture, history, and everyday life. This experience will help them not only become the professionals they aspire to be but also serve as cultural and academic bridges between Armenia and their home countries.

Last year, 23 foreign students also completed the university’s preparatory courses and received graduation certificates.