Studying abroad as opportunity to deepen knowledge and skills

"My decision to study abroad was driven by a deep interest in Germany and in the German language and culture. Since my school years, I had dreamed of studying in Germany," Armenuhi notes. "While academic performance was certainly a factor, my primary motivation was a strong desire to acquire new knowledge and gain international experience."

During the semester, she completed three courses—German Stylistics and Grammar, Intercultural Communication, and Modern Germany and Area Studies—all conducted exclusively in German. Two of these were entirely new to her and offered the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of different dimensions of her field.

Armenuhi described the courses as highly interactive, featuring frequent group work, discussions, and practical assignments. She credits this environment with enhancing her linguistic thinking, fostering teamwork skills, and deepening her proficiency in German. 

"The university had highly developed infrastructure, including modern classrooms, computer labs, a large library, and a student cafeteria. The library was particularly invaluable, providing access to an extensive collection of books, electronic scientific articles, and research databases," says Armenuhi, whose primary academic interest is the study of German. She adds that the language particularly appeals to her, as she has been studying it for several years and considers it vital not only for its linguistic value but for its cultural significance.

The multicultural environment in Jena allowed her to explore diverse cultures and ways of thinking. In her view, the greatest advantage was interacting with students from various countries, which helped her become more tolerant and broad-minded.

She adds that cultural differences and language barriers can also present challenges. During her time in Jena, she interacted with students from China, England, Hungary, and South Korea. She found it especially interesting—and at times unfamiliar—to observe how students from different countries approached learning and expressed their opinions. 

Reflecting on the educational models of both universities, Armenuhi notes that while studies at YSU provide a strong theoretical foundation, the host university places greater emphasis on practical work, discussions, and project-based learning. She adds that both systems have advantages that complement one another.

"I believe the most important aspects of education are the acquisition of high-quality knowledge, the development of linguistic thinking, and the ability to work independently," she emphasizes. "From this perspective, YSU has played a major role in my professional development, providing a solid foundation for further growth."

She describes her studies at one of Germany's leading universities as one of her major achievements, noting that she was highly active throughout the program, presenting both individual and research projects that earned her top marks.

"This experience not only deepened my professional knowledge, but also bolstered my confidence," she notes. "It allowed me to adopt new methods and work styles that will undoubtedly be beneficial throughout my future education and career."

Currently, Armenuhi works at Teleperformance Armenia, where she applies the skills and knowledge acquired during her studies. Looking ahead, she aims to pursue advanced degrees and continue gaining international experience to further develop within her field.