April 06, 2026 | 12:12
Education
International cooperation
Student
Foreign student chooses YSU on her path to becoming translator
Sara Sinkova, a fourth-year student at the Faculty of Russian Philology at Palacký University in Olomouc, Czechia, is continuing her studies at the Faculty of Russian Philology at Yerevan State University under the Erasmus+ program. Her academic program at Palacký University also includes translation theory and translation studies, and she plans to focus on translation in the coming years.
At the Faculty of Russian Philology, Sara studies the morphological features of language and attends courses such as Lexicology, 20th-Century Russian Literature, and Speech Culture.
"In my opinion, the teaching methods used by the lecturers at the Faculty of Russian Philology are highly effective. Overall, the lectures here are more interactive, which I greatly appreciate. In addition, my fellow students are very supportive and are always ready to help with various issues," Sara said.
She noted that, given current global developments, translators are more in demand than ever. Speaking about her preferred field within translation, she emphasized: "A thorough understanding of other peoples' languages and ways of thinking is essential for effective international communication. What I find both fascinating and somewhat daunting is how even a minor mistake in translation can completely alter the final meaning."
According to Sara, translation is, on the one hand, a great responsibility, while on the other, it can also be highly creative. In this context, she remarked: "I see it as an equation that can be solved in different ways—the choice of the best solution is in the hands of the translator."
In her view, languages are constantly evolving; therefore, a translator is always learning.
"There is always something new to discover. That is what makes this profession, in my opinion, somewhat magical," the foreign student pointed out.
This is Sara's first visit to Armenia. She is deeply impressed by the people’s hospitality and the wide range of leisure opportunities.
"What impresses me most is Armenians' willingness to help others without hesitation. In Czechia, people also try to help, but they are not as proactive. This culture amazes me every time,” the student added.
Sara Sinkova's studies at the Faculty of Russian Philology at Yerevan State University will last for one semester.


