Beyond weather forecasting: Gagik Surenyan’s professional journey and life behind predictions

What once were childhood fascinations—clouds and thunderstorms—have become the subject of Gagik Surenyan’s professional forecasting. Today, his name is synonymous with reliable forecasts, public trust, and unwavering professionalism. As a child and teenager, he spent countless hours observing the movement of clouds, seeking to understand nature’s language. Now, he not only predicts the weather but also fosters public confidence, proving that passion for one’s work can turn into a way of life.

As part of YSU Alumni Forum, Deputy Director of the Hydrometeorology and Monitoring Center Gagik Surenyan was recognized as one of YSU's outstanding alumni. He received YSU Alumni Excellence Award in the category of "Physical World." Today, he is a renowned expert, widely trusted by the public.

In the interview with YSU alumnus Gagik Surenyan, we talked about how his career choice became a way of life, what it means to be a public figure, and how one can continue to love their work—regardless of the weather.

"I had a particular fascination with thunderstorms. By the time I was in the 6th or 7th grade, I asked my geography teacher to provide me with literature on meteorology," Gagik Surenyan recalls.

While many of his peers were still discovering their interests, he was already confidently moving toward his future profession. In the 8th grade, he made an unusual request to the Hydrometeorological Service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

"I went to the Ministry’s Hydromet Service and asked the director for permission to participate in the weather forecasting process once a week. By my second year of university, I was already working there," he shares.

When curiosity turns into practical experience from an early age, a profession becomes not a coincidence, but a consciously chosen path.

When asked what he finds most appealing about his profession, he responds without hesitation: "Everything—the data, the analysis, the attempt to understand nature's language. All of it is important. This is a profession that allows you to constantly learn, to see the world from a new perspective, to accept challenges, and to discover new opportunities."

Beyond his professional duties, YSU alumnus Gagik Surenyan also bears the responsibilities of a public figure. He is aware that his forecasts can influence important decisions in people’s lives—affecting someone’s travel plans, wedding day, or work schedule.

"It is a very responsible job and, in certain cases, a stressful one," the meteorologist notes.

This professional responsibility is amplified when the public bases their plans on the information provided. According to him, it is thanks to accurate and dedicated work that he has earned the public’s trust.

Reflecting on his professional journey, Gagik Surenyan highlights two key pillars that have helped him achieve success:

"First is the high-quality education I received at Yerevan State University. YSU gave me a solid foundation of knowledge that became the driving force of my professional development," he says, adding that the second key pillar is his deep love and dedication to science, which motivated him to continuously improve his professional knowledge and skills.

To young people who see their future in this field, he advises: love your profession deeply, because that love will help you make the most of both your time and your life.

And what does a person say when the questions come quickly? At the end of the interview, Gagik Surenyan answered a rapid-fire round of questions, revealing not only his way of thinking but also his personality and lifestyle preferences.