Volunteers of YSU Alumni Forum 2026 receive certificates of recognition

"This was my first time volunteering at an event of this scale, particularly in the role of volunteer coordinator. For me, the most important thing was ensuring that the team's work was organized effectively," said Anahit Gevorgyan, a volunteer at the YSU Alumni Forum and a third-year student at the YSU Faculty of International Relations. 

At 8:30 a.m., before the first forum participants and guests had arrived at the university, Anahit was already at her post. Her first responsibility was coordinating the registration and reception process, ensuring that guests could easily find their way, receive the necessary information, and reach the venue they needed.    

Anahit had previously participated in various programs and initiatives organized by the Student Council. However, the YSU Alumni Forum offered a new experience. This time, she was not only taking part in the event but also coordinating volunteers' work, gaining firsthand insight into the responsibility involved in leading a large team and ensuring the smooth organization of operations. During the forum, she oversaw the work of approximately 30 volunteers. According to Anahit, she deliberately chose this area of responsibility because she recognized its importance. 

"I considered the registration area to be one of the most important sections because it is where a guest's first interaction with the event begins. It was essential for volunteers to demonstrate a professional approach, assist guests, and help create a positive atmosphere," she said.

One of the most memorable moments of the forum for Anahit was seeing guests leave the event hall. She recalls that it was at that moment that the value of direct interaction between volunteers and participants became especially evident.

"Many people were visiting those parts of the university for the first time and sometimes had difficulty finding the halls they needed. The importance of volunteer work became particularly clear when volunteers approached guests, guided them, and answered their questions. Guests themselves noted that the volunteers' assistance helped them feel more comfortable throughout the event," she emphasized.   

The forum also presented Anahit with a real test of responsibility. At one point, one of the devices used in the registration process could not be found, naturally causing concern among the team. Everyone began searching for it, trying to determine where it might have been misplaced. Since the devices had been entrusted to the volunteer team, every minute mattered. 

"At first, we were very tense because we understood that it was not just a device; it was a responsibility entrusted to us. Everyone immediately began searching in different directions, trying to figure out as quickly as possible where it might be. In the end, it turned out that the device had been moved to the registration area and placed on a table; we just hadn't noticed it at the time," the volunteer recalled.

According to Anahit, the situation once again demonstrated the importance of thinking quickly and working effectively as a team during large-scale events. Although it was a stressful moment, the issue was resolved quickly thanks to the volunteers' coordinated efforts.

The contributions of Anahit and the other volunteers, as well as the significance of their work, were recognized during a meeting held today with YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan and Vice-Rector for International Cooperation, Development and Innovation Mikayel Hovhannisyan. The discussion focused on the organizational aspects of the forum, the role of volunteers in its successful implementation, and the experience and skills they gained through their participation.

Students involved in organizing the forum were presented with certificates of participation at the university today in recognition of their contribution and active engagement.

YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan noted that participation in such initiatives during one's university years can serve as an important foundation for future success.

According to him, the experience of the world's leading universities shows that effectively engaging students can contribute not only to their professional development but also to the emergence of new ideas, startups, and partnerships. The university environment provides a platform for students to meet their future colleagues, form teams, and turn ideas into real projects. 

"It is very important to understand that volunteering is not merely participation in a particular event. It is an opportunity to meet new people, build connections, and discover new ideas. Very often, these interactions later develop into collaborations," the rector said, stressing that achieving success during university years depends not only on academic achievement but also on active participation in university life through volunteer programs, internships, and various initiatives.

According to Hovhannisyan, today's labor market values not only knowledge but also initiative, the ability to work in a team, and a willingness to take responsibility.

"From now on, whenever the YSU Alumni Forum is mentioned, you can say, 'I was one of the organizers of that forum as well.' You were part of bringing this major event to life, demonstrating dedication and a strong sense of responsibility in every task you undertook," the rector added. 

Mikayel Hovhannisyan noted that it is encouraging to see students who have already gained experience through volunteer work at various events and those who are only beginning to get involved. According to him, the volunteer community needs to continue growing so that more students can take part in organizing a wide range of initiatives.  

"I assure you that there will be many more opportunities in the future. We will soon announce new programs and volunteer recruitment opportunities, so these initiatives will continue. It is also important for us to understand your needs and hear your suggestions," he said. 

During the meeting, Hovhannes Hovhannisyan and Mikayel Hovhannisyan also discussed the potential involvement of volunteers in COP17, which is scheduled to take place in Armenia. It was noted that the volunteer movement will play an important role in the successful organization of such a major international event by helping to welcome, guide, and assist thousands of guests in various organizational processes.

The volunteers also shared their impressions, emphasizing that participation in the forum allowed them to gain new experience, strengthen their organizational and communication skills, and build closer connections with the university's alumni and partners. 

The YSU Alumni Forum brought together graduates from different generations, university partners, faculty members, and students, creating a platform for professional collaboration, the exchange of experience, and the strengthening of ties within the university community.