Italian culture, new challenges and journey of self-discovery through the eyes of YSU student

Anahit Khachatryan, a second-year student in the "Linguistic Culture of International Business Communication" master's program, had always considered studying abroad a pivotal phase in her academic journey.

"Everything about this period is precious to me. I cherished even the daily challenges and obstacles, knowing they added flavour to my life and would soon become sweet memories and moments to be proud of. This invaluable experience—one that shaped me personally and enriched me academically—is something I'll forever keep in the deepest corner of my heart," says Anahit, an admirer of Italian culture and civilisation.

During her semester abroad, she studied at the School of Arts, Humanities and Cultural Heritage, taking courses such as English for Specific Purposes, Management of Cultural Events, Language and Capitalism, and The Culture of Visual Arts.

"Thanks to the strong academic foundation I received at YSU, especially in my faculty, not for a single moment did I feel lost in the learning process—even though the subjects were new and full of challenges. The program gave me a valuable opportunity to apply my intercultural communication and language skills in practice, broaden my worldview, and become more flexible and resilient at every stage of adapting to a new environment. I particularly want to highlight how essential analytical and critical thinking skills are in the European academic system. They truly shape you into a 'thinking student'," she notes.

Contrasts and Surprises

– Anahit, how did you imagine studying abroad, and what was it really like?

– I imagined studying abroad would be insurmountable and unbearably difficult—but in reality, it was entirely surmountable and bearably difficult (she smiles).

– How did you imagine the people, and what were they really like?

– I imagined them vaguely, almost like people from another planet. But from the moment I set foot in Italy, I felt reassured. Italians were incredibly polite, warm and cheerful—ready at any moment to stop what they were doing to point me in the right direction or help carry my heavy luggage. Their kindness filled me with warmth and a sense of safety. I never once felt like a stranger. The people are one of the main reasons I fell in love with Italy.

– How did you imagine the University of Bologna, and what was it really like?

– Knowing that the University of Bologna is the oldest in the world, I imagined it as a place steeped in the spirit of those times. Walking in, I felt overwhelmed in the best way. The different university buildings felt less like academic spaces and more like museums infused with the spirit of the Renaissance. Every stone, arch and sculpture seemed to tell a story. I wanted to explore every corner, walk every corridor and study with even greater excitement.

One could speak endlessly about the libraries, which resembled 'silent treasure troves' with dark wooden shelves reaching up to the ceiling, where ancient manuscripts seemed to 'speak' with centuries of wisdom—among them, many Armenian works, which filled me with immense pride… Every time I stepped inside, I felt as if I were becoming a small part of that vast history.

– Before leaving, I thought… but then…

– I thought the experience would be unbearable and that I'd return in tears after a few days. Instead, I returned from Italy with teary eyes for a different reason—feeling as though I was leaving one home for another, and leaving a piece of my heart behind.

– The hardest part…

– Taking the risk—stepping out of my comfort zone. That ended up becoming my greatest strength.

– How did you feel hearing your name in another language for the first time?

– Locals called me Ana, and the first time I heard it, I realised that Ana was going to fall deeply in love with Italy, with herself, and with life in Italy.

One Page, One Story

– Anahit, is there a story from your time studying in Italy that at first seemed difficult or confusing, but later turned into an interesting and instructive experience?

– Yes. Once, I found out—just one day before—that I had to sit an exam due to a technical misunderstanding. The required readings were so extensive that even a week wouldn't have been enough to study them—especially since I was unfamiliar with the course content. And the exam grade would count toward my YSU transcript.

After several hours of non-stop crying, I pulled myself together and, with my friend, went to my favourite park to brace myself for the exam. When I got home, I studied through the entire night—with teary eyes and with my friends' help. 

The next day, I went to the exam extremely nervous. To my surprise, everything went well—and I earned a good grade. I now look back at that moment with warmth. It taught me that even in situations that seem hopeless, you can find the strength to believe, to work and to overcome. My friends' support—both emotional and practical—became the heart of that story. I’m sure that our unity and optimism helped me get through it. 

Quick Round of Choices

 – Written or oral exams?

– Oral.

– Morning classes at YSU or in Italy?

– Mornings at YSU—with Italian coffee. But afternoon or evening classes in Italy.

– More inspiring lecturer: Armenian or Italian?

– A true professional—whether Armenian or Italian.

– Exams at YSU or in Italy?

– Exams aren't difficult anywhere—if you've prepared.

– More active students: Armenian or Italian?

– Italians have a livelier, more interesting student life.

– How would you describe your first week abroad?

– Filled with anticipation.

– Your favourite Italian word?

– Perfetto.

– Your most unforgettable moment?

– My first encounter with the city that once seemed so far away.

– If you could 'import' one habit from Italy to Armenia, what would it be?

– The slow-living culture—finding joy in small things and savouring the moment.

Anahit says that her time in Italy inspired her to make the most of every moment of study and new experiences, fully aware that such gifts are temporary and will never come again. 

The experience also changed her as a student, teaching her that no complex or extensive material—or tight deadline—feels daunting anymore.