August 19, 2026 | 12:20
Education
Student
Starting at YSU: Monika Khachatryan's journey through education and international experience
"Growth." This is the word Monika Khachatryan, a graduate of the Faculty of European Languages and Communication, uses to describe her student years at YSU. For her, the university was not only a place to gain professional knowledge, but also an environment that shaped her way of thinking, interests and goals for the future. Her student memories are connected not only with classes and exams, but also with the small yet important moments of university life - long conversations after classes, the tension before exams and the sense of relief after success.
"The university gave me professional knowledge and also helped me become more independent, responsible and goal-oriented. Here, I learned to work with different people, overcome difficulties and keep growing," says Monika, who combined her studies at YSU with participation in various educational programs, competitions and international opportunities. She took part in the Erasmus+ program, various olympiads and exhibitions, seeking to make the most of every opportunity.
– Monika, what was most important to you in the university environment: knowledge, connections with people or the process of finding yourself?
– For me, the most important thing was the process of self-development. At the same time, during my university years, I both gained knowledge and met people who became important to me.
– What difficulties or challenges did you face during your studies, and how did they affect your development?
– One of the main challenges during my student years was managing my time properly while balancing my studies, work and participation in various programs. Especially during exam periods, it was sometimes difficult to manage everything and maintain a balance. However, that experience taught me to be more organized and responsible and to manage my time effectively.
– Was there a particular event or experience that significantly changed the way you think?
– Yes, several experiences influenced my way of thinking, but I would particularly highlight the experience of studying abroad. Studying in the United States and later in Europe showed me how different education systems can be, as well as how differently people can approach the same issues. I particularly remember the moments when I had to adapt quickly to a new environment, work with people from different cultures and find solutions independently in situations that were unfamiliar to me. It taught me to be more flexible and not to be afraid of uncertainty.
– Monika, you mentioned that you already have experience studying abroad. How did you decide to participate in the Erasmus+ program, and what was important to you about taking advantage of this opportunity?
– Deciding to participate in the Erasmus+ program was quite a natural step for me. Since I already had some experience abroad, both through studying in the United States and participating in various educational programs, it was important for me to continue along that path and broaden the experience I had gained. In addition, I have always been interested in different education systems and cultures. Erasmus+ was exactly the kind of opportunity that brought those interests together — study, cultural exchange and personal development.
As part of the program, I went to A Coruna, Spain. My first impressions were very positive: the city was warm and peaceful, yet lively. I was particularly struck by the feeling of being close to the ocean, the openness and friendliness of the people, and the city's overall atmosphere. I can say that I immediately fell in love with the city, both with its nature and its way of life.
What was most unusual for me was how different the pace of life was and how differently people approached time and everyday life. I was particularly impressed by the more relaxed pace of life in Spain. From what I observed, people seemed to rush less and place greater importance on quality of life and human interaction than simply on achieving results quickly. Another cultural difference was the directness of communication. People easily start conversations, and, overall, a more open and friendly atmosphere develops.
I have always considered it important to bring that knowledge and experience back to Armenia and put it into practice here. I believe experiences abroad gain even greater value when it also serves the development of one's own community and country.
After returning to Armenia, I came to appreciate more the clarity and structured nature of academic requirements in Armenia, and particularly at YSU. Students know clearly what is expected of them to achieve strong results. I also highly value the involvement of lecturers. They not only impart knowledge, but are genuinely interested in students' progress, try to give them as much as possible, and make sure that no important topic or gap is left unaddressed. That caring and supportive approach became particularly noticeable to me after I returned.
– Monika, you have already defended your graduation thesis. Could you tell us about its topic, what drew you to it, and your experience throughout the preparation and defense process?
– My graduation thesis was titled "Hashtags as Discourse Markers: A Study of Twitter/X Communication." I chose the topic because I was interested in the distinctive features of digital communication and the ways in which social media is changing the culture of communication. The defense went well. Overall, I am satisfied with the work I completed and the experience I gained in the process.
– If you had the opportunity to relive your student years, what would you do differently?
– To be honest, I would not change much. Perhaps I would worry less about small things and enjoy the moment more. Every experience, success or difficulty taught me something.
– What would you say today to the Monika who is just beginning her student journey?
– I would say: enjoy every day and try to make the most of the opportunities you are given. Student years pass very quickly, so it is important not only to study, but also to create memories and take advantage of the opportunities that come your way.
– If you imagine yourself several years from now, what kind of person and professional would you like to be? What role does education play for you on that path?
– Several years from now, I see myself as an established marketing professional with international experience who can work effectively in different environments and teams. I seek to be a goal-oriented person who is open to new ideas, adapts quickly to change and is able to create real value through her work. My professional experience in marketing has given me a solid foundation for understanding the practical side of the field. Education is an important part of that path for me: it not only provides knowledge, but also shapes one's way of thinking, creative approach and broader worldview. International educational experience is particularly important because it provides an opportunity to become familiar with different markets and best practices and later apply that experience in Armenia.
– What goals do you have? Are you planning to continue your education?
– Of course, I am planning to continue my education. I participated in the CCC (Competitive College Club) program, through which I spent almost a year learning about the admissions process and educational opportunities at US universities. After my experience studying in Europe, I realized that both the American and European education systems appeal to me. For that reason, I have not yet made a final decision on which path to pursue, but I would like to continue my education abroad, gaining new knowledge and international experience.
Community and youth initiatives also hold a distinct place in Monika's educational journey. She is a FLEX alumna, and after returning from the United States, she spent about a year serving as a City Representative, organizing events, English clubs and discussions that contributed to youth development and community engagement.
For the past three years, Monika has also worked with ESN Armenia, supporting international students arriving in Armenia and helping them adapt and integrate more easily into their new environment. In addition to studying in Spain, she also participated in a short-term Erasmus+ program in Bulgaria.
Education, international experience and community engagement have become an important foundation for Monika's professional development. Her next step is to continue her education, gain new knowledge and experience, and later bring what she has learned back to Armenia and put it into practice.
