"From my first year, my goal was to study in Italy": YSU student Lilit Hovsepyan

Lilit notes that the differences in the educational system and teaching methods allowed her to approach many subjects from an alternative perspective. Communicating in Italian with native speakers was an entirely new experience for her; at first it was somewhat challenging, but over time it became a very enjoyable activity.

Contrasts and Surprises

– The most difficult part…

– The most difficult part was understanding representatives of different cultures; however, this challenge ultimately became one of my strengths.

– How did you imagine studying abroad, and what was it actually like?

– I expected the courses to be quite ordinary and standardized, but that was not the case. I participated in many engaging practical classes, such as "Venetian Art and Archaeology", during which we visited churches in Venice to gain a more vivid and tangible understanding of the theoretical material.

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

– I had heard that people in northern Italy are more reserved, while those in the south are more open-minded—and this perception proved accurate. Communicating with young Italians was somewhat challenging, whereas conversations with older people were much more engaging; they were distinctive and full of life.

– What seemed difficult during classes but eventually turned out to be the easiest?

– I initially believed that the examinations would be very difficult, as the classes were conducted in English and Italian and the professors appeared quite formal. In reality, however, everything proceeded smoothly.

– What inspired you to study there?

– My love for the Italian language and the Italian people. From my first year of study, my goal was to study in Italy through the Erasmus+ program, and once I achieved this dream, my motivation increased significantly. 

– How have you changed as a student?

– I now have a clearer understanding of how to learn a new language more effectively. I have discovered new strategies that help me absorb and comprehend academic material more easily.

– What would you like to adopt from the Italian university system and introduce at Yerevan State University?

– I would like to see greater academic freedom at YSU, allowing students to choose courses that genuinely interest them rather than attending classes merely to avoid absences. In Italy, students view university education as a responsibility, and class attendance is considered a personal choice. From the very beginning, we were allowed to select preferred courses, and if a class was not engaging, it could be replaced with another.

– How did you feel when you heard your name pronounced in another language for the first time?

– Italians were curious about the origin and history of my name, and they always pronounced it with the stress on the first syllable. The feeling was indescribable. Even now, I experience that unique sensation when I recall how each of my international friends pronounced my name.

One Page, One Story

Told by Lilit…

This experience was far from ordinary; it was filled with adventures and new discoveries. I met many people, some of whom became my closest friends, even despite the great distances between us. I believe that no matter how much knowledge one acquires, how many effective strategies one masters, or how many diverse cultures one encounters, the most valuable thing that remains is friendship.

While studying abroad, I met one of my closest friends, who is Portuguese. We spoke to him so much about Armenians, our culture, and our traditions that his entire family welcomed us with exceptional warmth. I truly realized that I had succeeded when I traveled to Portugal with one of my Armenian friends, and my friend from abroad, along with their family and another friend, welcomed and hosted us. We spent an incredibly pleasant and memorable time together. 

At that moment, I understood that the greatest value of the Erasmus+ program lies not only in the academic experience, but also in the human connections that are formed. 

Important Choices

– Your first week abroad:

– Unusual.

– Your favorite Italian word:

– Malincuore (meaning "reluctantly" or "with a heavy heart"). 

– Your most unexpected cultural discovery:

– For me, Naples was a major cultural revelation—a city full of contrasts, and you are lucky if you don't end up under a car or moped! (smiles)

– Your most memorable university moment:

– Tasting the traditional local sweets of Venice with my classmates during the carnival—a moment full of joy and the discovery of new flavors.

– Classroom behavior that surprised you:

– Italians use laptops throughout lectures, typing continuously, which makes it difficult to hear the professor. 

– The strangest rule you encountered:

– Speak Italian, or risk paying more for any item you buy.

– Your craziest student day abroad:

– Running across train tracks to avoid missing the train.

Currently, Lilit works as an Italian language teacher. She notes that the education and experience she gained in Italy greatly contributed to the advancement of her knowledge and self-confidence.

"Sometimes I wonder if I could have worked in this field before studying in Italy. The answer is no, because I gained much more knowledge and confidence there," she summarizes.

The YSU student wishes to continue her studies abroad at the master's level, though she has not yet decided on the country or field of study.