YSU student Ashot Matevosyan on winning IT competition and his path to success

For Ashot, the award reflects years of accumulated knowledge, consistent work, self-development, numerous mistakes and a readiness to try again. For him, the award is not a stopping point, but a new incentive to learn more, create and move forward. 

His interest in information technology began in school, when he first realized that technology was not simply a set of tools, but a means of turning ideas into practical solutions.

"I have always been interested in how the systems we use every day are created and how technology can be used to solve real problems. Over time, that interest developed into deeper study and participation in various programs, competitions and projects. Each new experience convinced me further that IT is not just a profession, but an opportunity to keep learning and creating," he says. 

– Ashot, how do you approach preparing for exams or important competitions?

–  I usually start preparing for exams in advance, working through the material gradually. As the exam approaches, I focus mainly on reviewing what I have already covered and making sure I have a solid grasp of it. There is naturally a certain amount of tension during any exam or competition, but it is significantly reduced by the supportive and friendly attitude of the lecturers, which helps me perform with greater confidence. In my view, an exam should be approached not as a stressful process, but as an opportunity to apply the knowledge you have gained. This helps you remain calm and focused, manage your time properly and demonstrate your abilities more effectively.

– When applying your knowledge in practice, what kinds of projects do you particularly enjoy working on? Is there one project that has remained especially memorable for you?

– Yes, there are several projects I have worked on with great interest, but the most memorable have been those involving innovative ideas and practical applications. These projects have given me the opportunity not only to apply the knowledge I have gained, but also to be creative and find new solutions. What I find most interesting is the process in which an idea gradually takes shape, becomes a testable solution and ultimately produces a real result. Work like this is always especially motivating.

– What has YSU given you besides knowledge? 

– YSU has given me much more than professional knowledge. It has given me new friends, interesting acquaintances and experience in working and collaborating with different people. YSU has taught me to be more independent, responsible and proactive, not to be afraid of proposing new ideas or taking on new challenges. Here I have gained experience and values that are important not only at university, but also in my future life and professional career. Most importantly, YSU has given me an environment where I have been able to develop, discover my potential and gain confidence in my own abilities.

– In your opinion, what distinguishes today's YSU student?

– Today's YSU student does not wait for the future, but tries to create it. They are not satisfied with simply acquiring knowledge; they seek to turn it into ideas, initiatives and tangible results. I believe one of the strongest qualities of a YSU student is the willingness to look for new paths and take responsibility. And, of course, the responsibility you bear as a student of the alma mater is also important.

Ashot's path of achievement, beginning in his school years, has included various competitions and programs in mathematics, science and IT. He has received several international and national awards, including the Republic of Armenia's first-degree Best School Student state award in 2023. In the following years, he stayed active, participating in YSU educational and startup programs and various competitions, and also received several scholarships. For Ashot, however, what matters is not only personal success, but also the value he creates for those around him and for society.

"YSU has played a key role in my professional development. The university is the environment where my interests began to develop into more systematic knowledge and practical skills," he says.

– Ashot, do you have any research, programming or innovation projects that you are particularly proud of? 

– One of my projects that particularly stands out is related to solar energy. I presented it to the YSU Business Incubator and was among the program's first winners. This experience was highly important to me because it wasn't simply about presenting an idea; it was a real opportunity to test its applicability, receive professional feedback and develop the project in a more practical direction. It taught me that a good idea is only the beginning: real value is created when you are able to present it, defend it and turn it into a practical solution.

This project is also particularly important to me because it aims to increase Armenia's energy independence. It matters to me that the idea is not only a technological solution, but also has strategic significance, contributing to stronger energy security and sustainable development in the country. 

– In your opinion, what does it take to become a successful IT professional, and how do you assess the prospects for the sector's development in Armenia? 

– To become a successful IT professional, first and foremost, you need a willingness to keep learning, analytical thinking, perseverance and the ability to work in a team. Technology develops rapidly, so it is important not to stop, but to keep developing. Armenia's IT sector is also developing rapidly, and with the right approach, it can become an important driver of the country's economy. Physics also has a particularly important role, since many modern technological solutions are based on knowledge of physics. 

– As with any student, it is important for you to understand the direction in which you want to continue your journey. What goals and plans do you have after graduation, and what would you like to do in the coming years? 

– My main goals for the coming years are related to deepening my professional knowledge and developing innovative projects. Another important goal is to participate in larger research and practical projects, turning ideas into real, applicable solutions. I am interested in working on projects that may also have social or national significance. In addition to my professional development, I plan to continue participating in various competitions, programs and international collaborations to broaden my experience and knowledge.

"Studying at the world's leading universities is a valuable opportunity, but for me, it is even more important to apply the knowledge I gain for the benefit of my homeland's development. My main goal is to continue my work in Armenia and apply my knowledge and experience here, contributing to the country's technological and innovative development," the student says. 

Alongside all of this, Ashot also manages to combine his studies with professional work. He currently works as a researcher in the Nanostructures and Nanomaterials Research Group at the A. I. Alikhanyan National Science Laboratory. He balances study, work and personal life through proper time management, clear priorities and discipline, while also recognizing the importance of rest and spending time with friends.  

Quick questions for Ashot Matevosyan

– Morning classes or evening classes?

– Morning.

– Online classes or in-person classes?

– In-person.

– Prepare one day before an exam or one week before?

– One week before.

– Teamwork or individual work?

– Teamwork is not always effective; it depends on the team.

– Sit in the front row or the back row?

– Wherever I have an unobstructed view.

– One technology that, in your opinion, will change the world in the coming years.

– Artificial intelligence has already started that process.

– Three words that describe your student life.

– Goal, work, result.

– The first person you called after learning that you had won.

– My mother.

– If you were YSU rector for one day, what would you change?

– If I were YSU rector for one day, I would organize seminars on the right to make mistakes. I would invite successful scientists, businesspeople and alumni not to talk about their victories, but about their biggest failures, because it is mistakes that shape scientific thinking and real progress.

– Winning the Best Student award in one word?

– Starting point.