Knowledge, competitions, victories: YSU student Sona Sargsyan wins an award

"The victory in the competition was an important recognition of the work I have done and the efforts I have invested. At the same time, it formed a sense of responsibility to continue working with the same consistency," the YSU student says.

– Sona, in your view, what helped you stand out and place high in the competition?

– I have always approached any task with a strong sense of responsibility. Throughout my studies, I have maintained high academic performance, which is the result of consistent and goal-oriented efforts. I also consider involvement in volunteer activities and public initiatives to be important, as I am convinced that theoretical knowledge alone is not sufficient to become a good specialist.

Working on scientific articles and participating in various conferences allow me to develop as a researcher, to form scientific thinking, to learn how to present my ideas clearly, and to work in a professional environment. All of this together has shaped the path that, I believe, contributed to my success in the competition.

– When preparing for professional competitions and projects, what is particularly important to you?

– I am especially attentive to a deep understanding of the topic, as well as the scientific and logical rigor of the material.

– Who or what inspires you to move forward and overcome difficulties?

– I am constantly inspired by people who are wholeheartedly devoted to their work. A great motivation for living and moving forward is also my mother's example and her support. Her faith and enthusiasm have always helped me overcome difficulties and achieve my goals. Besides, I place great importance on recognizing the value of knowledge and on understanding that the work I do can be useful to others.

– Education plays a key role in achieving success. Could you tell us about your educational path, the achievements during your student years and the priorities you have in education? 

– Throughout my studies, I have always tried to be as active and involved as possible in various initiatives, valuing both high academic performance and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practice.

A major experience and an important stage was my participation in the Erasmus+ exchange program, within the framework of which I spent four months at Saarland University (Germany) working on a research project. During that time, I worked in both organic synthesis and microbiology laboratories, which gave me the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in laboratories and a deeper understanding of the real process of scientific work.

– What motivated your choice of faculty?

– I chose the Faculty of Biology at YSU because I have always been interested in studying living systems and in how science can be applied to solving real-world problems. This very interest continues guiding me today on my path of academic and professional development.

University education is an important stage in shaping a future specialist, as it provides fundamental knowledge and professional thinking. At the same time, I also place great importance on self-education—constantly acquiring new knowledge, developing, and keeping pace with the changing scientific environment.

– Sona, when conducting scientific research, which methods or approaches do you most often apply?

– Our research group, which works in the Laboratory of Microbiology, Bioenergetics, and Biotechnology at the Research Institute of Biology, studies the effects of extracts of medicinal plants found in Armenia on various bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. I have been involved in this work since my third year of study. The research aims to determine how effective natural agents can be against such resistant bacteria. Of particular interest is the phenomenon of synergism, when a plant extract and an antibiotic together exert a stronger effect than when used separately. This issue is highly relevant, as the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has become a serious public health problem and requires new solutions.

– What advice would you give to students who wish to achieve success in your professional field?

– First of all, be curious and patient: science does not promise quick results. It is important not to be afraid of difficult topics, to learn from mistakes, and to work constantly on self-education.

Although Sona has not yet completed her fourth year, she already has a clear goal—to continue her professional path. She plans to pursue a master's degree at YSU and, if possible, to participate in international training programs alongside her studies, in order to learn new methods and gain international experience.

"It is important for me to grow, to learn new things, to collaborate with research teams, and at the same time to contribute to the fields of science and education," the YSU student concludes.