One semester in Berlin: YSU student's international academic journey

Viktorya shares about her international educational experience…

The decision to continue my education abroad was not based solely on high academic performance. Equally decisive were my aspiration to study in a high-quality academic environment, my desire to be involved in a system that places strong emphasis on critical thinking and research, as well as my goal of gaining international experience and later applying it effectively in Armenia.

At the Free University of Berlin, the specialized English-language courses stood out for their in-depth and complex structure, aimed at precise, structured, and competent use of the language. They went far beyond the scope of everyday communication, focusing instead on academic writing, professional terminology, critical reading, and linguistic nuances. These multifaceted courses significantly contributed to the improvement of my professional English skills, allowing me to confidently and effectively use the language both in academic settings and in everyday and formal communication.

Extensive resources for an effective educational process

During my studies at the Free University of Berlin, I made the most of the university's extensive and modern infrastructure located on the main campus. It included a large library offering a vast collection of academic literature, electronic resources, and a comfortable environment for both individual study and group research work. There were also large auditoriums for lectures, seminars, and public events, a central computer center, student support services, and a large cafeteria. All of this created a comfortable and favorable environment for learning.

While studying abroad, I attended courses that I had been somewhat familiar with, yet they were still new to me. The courses covered a wide range of topics, including methods of linguistic analysis, structural features of the English language, cultural studies and museum studies, culture–gender–media analysis from the perspective of the impact of technology and artificial intelligence, as well as practical approaches ranging from vocabulary to grammar. These courses not only provided fundamental knowledge but also created an opportunity to view the relationship between language and culture from a new perspective, to develop critical thinking, and to clearly distinguish between the positive and negative functions of artificial intelligence.

Studying at the crossroad of cultures

A multicultural environment has significant advantages, as it allows one to explore different ways of thinking, traditions, and approaches, to broaden one's horizons, and to develop intercultural communication skills.

At the same time, challenges may arise—for example, when differences in cultural practices and working styles lead to misunderstandings or require adaptation to new rules. I interacted with students and lecturers from Germany, Italy, France, China, England, Spain, and many other countries, during which I discovered a wide variety of cultural characteristics. It was pleasant to see how important punctuality, effective time management, and a consistent approach to work and study were for representatives of other cultures, as these qualities contributed to a more effective learning process.

One of the main challenges I faced during the Erasmus+ program was precisely intercultural differences. German society clearly differed from Armenian society. Both at the university and in the city, I encountered representatives of many other cultures, which initially required adapting to new forms of interaction and communication. Another challenge, which was both a difficulty and an opportunity, was the fact that many people, unfortunately, had never heard of Armenia. When introducing myself to students or lecturers, along with stating my nationality, I spoke about Armenia, our people, and our culture, referring to important historical events so that they could recognize and imagine how strong the Armenian nation is, with its centuries-old and indelible history. This experience not only helped me overcome intercultural barriers but also provided invaluable experience and memories that will accompany me throughout my life.

From an interest in languages to an international educational path

My interest in languages guided me toward the "Cross-Cultural Communication (English)" educational program at the YSU Faculty of European Languages and Communication, where I discovered the multilayered structure of language and its important role in all spheres of life. During my studies, I came to understand how languages and cultures interact in different environments, influencing the formation of effective communication between people.

In education, I place particular importance on in-depth knowledge and the integrated application of acquired skills at a practical level. In this regard, Yerevan State University has played a key role in my academic and professional development by creating a solid theoretical foundation and contributing to the formation of my own worldview.

The knowledge and experience I gained helped me discover new opportunities abroad and inspired me to take more confident and determined steps in my future educational path.

In conclusion, the student emphasizes that although Yerevan State University and the Free University of Berlin differ in their approaches to organizing education, both have their own distinctive strengths. She notes that YSU places emphasis on deepening theoretical knowledge and applying skills acquired through individual work, whereas abroad priority is given to interactive discussions, seminars, and practical projects that encourage active student participation and teamwork. At the same time, the interdisciplinary environment formed at the Free University of Berlin provided opportunities for exchanging experience and building new connections, bringing together students from different countries, including Armenia.