Hye Sharzhoom Armenian Action
David Ashkharian
Biology
Minor in Armenian Studies
What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event?
My favorite class was the Arts of Armenia, ArmS 20. I found it incredibly fascinating to explore how faith in Christianity inspired so many beautiful pieces of artwork, church architecture, and more – both in Armenia and abroad.
What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program?
The most valuable experience was the interactions and connections I made with fellow students and faculty. I know many of these relationships will last a lifetime, and I am extremely grateful to the Program for making that possible.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to pursue my entrepreneurial passions with another fellow Fresno State graduate – who also happens to be part Armenian – and to build a business of our own.
Charles Garabedian III
Agricultural Business
Minor in Armenian Studies
What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
To learn more about my heritage. As an Armenian, I felt a strong personal connection and responsibility to learn more about my heritage in an academic setting. I grew up hearing some history, but I wanted to gain a deeper understanding of where we come from, what we have been through, and how that shapes our identity today. I also wanted to learn the Armenian language since it plays an important role in Armenian identity. Taking these courses felt like a way to reconnect with my roots and honor the resilience of our ancestors.
What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event?
Although I have enjoyed all of the classes, my favorite activity was traveling to Armenia with Professor Barlow and ten other students in the summer of 2023. It was my first time traveling to the homeland and I had an amazing experience. From visiting iconic landmarks to tasting the delicious cuisine, it was meaningful to connect with my heritage and explore the culture firsthand. I would like to thank Professor Barlow and the Armenian Studies Program for organizing such a tremendous trip.
What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program?
I deeply value the profound connections I formed with both the faculty and my fellow students. Professors Der Mugrdechian, Hagop Ohanessian, and David Zakarian were instrumental in developing my understanding of Armenian history, art, language, and literature. Their knowledge and dedication enriched my academic journey.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to pursue a career in the agricultural industry since my major is agricultural business. My goal is to be part of the sales team for a company in that industry. I am also interested in starting my own business someday, but I am still exploring different industries and ideas to find the right fit for me.
Careen Derkalousdian
Biochemistry
Minor in Armenian Studies
What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event?
My favorite Armenian Studies class was ArmS 108A – Armenian History I: Ancient and Medieval taught by Professor Der Mugrdechian. I enjoyed learning about our rich history, such as the ancient kingdom of Urartu and Armenians’ interactions with other civilizations. What particularly left a lasting impression on me was learning about the Christianization of Armenia and how brave martyrs like St. Hripsime paved the way for God’s truth to touch the hearts of our people and illuminate our nation.
What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program?
I was able to participate in the 2023 Armenia Summer Study program. This trip was my first time visiting my homeland, and I had the privilege to see our rich history, beautiful nature, and meaningful landmarks in person.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be attending medical school in the Fall to fulfill my dream of becoming a physician. I am excited to embark on this journey, and I am eager to remain involved in the Armenian community!
Izabella Papikyan
Business Administration-Marketing
Minor in Armenian Studies
What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
When I transferred to Fresno State in the Spring of 2023, I discovered several Armenian courses available that my community college did not have. I am always eager to learn more about my heritage, so I signed up for Armenian 148. I enjoyed learning about Armenian literature and proceeded to take more classes in the upcoming semesters.
What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event?
My favorite Armenian class was Armenian Studies 20-Arts of Armenia, which is an introduction to Armenian architecture, painting, sculpture, ceramics, metal work, and textiles. In this course, I especially enjoyed learning about Armenian manuscripts preserved in various parts of the world, one of which is Venice, Italy. I had the opportunity to visit Venice, and I am grateful to have taken a class that introduced me to these beautiful manuscripts, which I was fortunate enough to see in person.
What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program?
I value the community and how united everyone is. Especially as a new transfer to Fresno State, I made so many friends and attended numerous events with them, which has made my college experience so fun. I am forever grateful for all the memories made within this program and recommend everyone who will be attending Fresno State in the future to get as involved as possible.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to start my Master’s of Business Administration in Los Angeles, because I want to become a professor and be back in a university setting where I will teach several business and marketing courses. It is a dream of mine to accomplish this.
Ani Sargsyan
Communication Science-Speech Pathology
Minor in Armenian Studies
What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
The last time I took an Armenian class was at the Charlie Keyan Armenian Community School, so I knew that I wanted to expand my knowledge of Armenian culture and history. Also, the sense of community and belonging this program offers students is undeniable; I wanted to be a part of it in some capacity.
What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event?
One of my favorite courses in the Armenian Studies program was Arm 108B – modern Armenian History. It was definitely the class that captivated me the most. Each day it deepened my understanding of the past, and I learned about the lasting impact on the future.
What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program?
I value all the amazing people I met and the connections made. The experience of being involved in the Armenian Studies Program truly shaped my college experience for the better. I am grateful for the professors who put in all their time and effort to make sure things are always moving forward.
What are your plans after graduation?
I have been accepted into the Master’s program in Speech-Language Pathology at Fresno State, so I will be returning in Fall 2025 to finish up my studies and pursue my goal of becoming an Speech-Language Pathologist.
Compiled by Lori Agazarian
Staff Writer