Hye Sharzhoom Armenian Action
Staff Report
Arev Chakhlasyan
Mass Communication & Journalism, Advertising
What or whom encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
I wanted to learn how to properly read and write in Armenian. Although I can speak and understand it fairly well, I had always wanted to learn it in its entirety. The Armenian Studies course allowed me to do that.
What do you value most from your experiences taking Armenian studies courses?
Having the opportunity to read and write in Armenian. Also, I have met several outstanding people, both professors within the Program and fellow students.
What are your plans after graduation?
Ideally, I would love to pursue a career in either media sales or social media marketing. I have also considered working at an advertising agency. All options sound extremely exciting to me.
What words of wisdom do you have for incoming students?
Simply put, college is what you make of it. Work hard, make wise decisions, and choose to live against the grain. There will be many people telling you who you should be or how you should act, but remember to live out the life that God has given you.
Evelyn Demirchian
Mass Communications and Journalism, Print Journalism
Minors in Armenian Studies & Middle Eastern Studies
What or whom first encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
As a Fresno Armenian, I had known about the ASP for some time, and had seen how the program is such a huge part of our community. When I transferred, I tried out two classes, Armenian 1A with Professor Der Mugrdechian, and a history class with Dr. La Porta. Both are so passionate and such great instructors that I wanted to stay a part of the program so I could continue learning under them.
What do you value most from your experiences taking Armenian Studies courses?
Learning to read and write in my mother tongue, diving deeper into Armenian history, and becoming exposed to the work done by Armenian Studies scholars, here, at Fresno State and around the world. The recent illuminated manuscript and book exhibit in the Henry Madden Library blew me away.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’ll stay in Fresno for another year to save money, as well as gain more experience with my company before I fly out to the East Coast.
What words of wisdom do you have for incoming students?
It’s all right if you’re not entirely sure as to what you’re doing because no one really does, but stay focused. Don’t be afraid to get involved in programs, classes, and organizations on campus that relate to your passions, because if you don’t experiment in college, when will you?
Ani Grigoryan
Business Administration,
Management
What or whom first encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
I decided that for myself. Because I am Armenian, I wanted to learn as much about my country and my roots as I could. I grew up in Moscow, Russia, and had never taken Armenian courses before, so this helped me learn more about my culture. I am glad that I decided to come to Fresno State—the city and the university have a lot of connections with Armenia and the Armenian people.
What do you value most from your experiences taking Armenian Studies courses?
I value everything: the knowledge, the connections I made, and the excellent environment to learn. All the Armenian Studies courses I have taken were the best ones of my college experience.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am applying to MBA programs in California. I am thinking of getting a Ph.D. in the future. Teaching college courses and doing research is something I would like to do.
What words of wisdom do you have for an incoming freshman?
Get involved! I joined the Armenian Students Organization my sophomore year and I regret not joining sooner. Try to find an organization that is close to who you are, as a person. Most of my best memories are connected with ASO.
Hagop Karakazian
Mathematics
What or whom first encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
Being Armenian motivated me to learn more about Armenian literature, art, and history through the Armenian Studies Program.
What do you value most from your experiences taking Armenian Studies courses?
Armenian Studies courses helped me discover more about my ethnic identity and that is what I value in my experiences.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to continue studying at Fresno State to obtain a Master’s degree in Mathematics.
What words of wisdom do you have for incoming students?
Attending university is the mission of stealing knowledge from your instructors and textbooks. Therefore, don’t miss any classes and study daily to get the most out of everything you learn.
Erica Magarian
Criminology, Forensic Behavioral Science
How did you first become involved in the Hye Sharzhoom newspaper?
It was the beginning of the Fall 2009 semester when I received an email from Professor Barlow Der Mugrdechian, asking if anyone would be interested in taking on the role of photographer for Hye Sharzhoom. I had five years of photography experience and felt that it would be an excellent opportunity for me to learn more about Armenian history and culture.
What do you value most from your experiences working for Hye Sharzhoom?
My most valued experiences, while working for Hye Sharzhoom, include hearing about the history of Armenia from the many excellent guest lecturers and learning so much more about the Armenian Genocide from the descendants of family members who were lost in the tragedy.
What are your plans after graduation?
My plans after graduation are to begin a new chapter of my life, searching for and settling into a career.
What words of wisdom do you have for incoming students?
Please, take advantage of the many opportunities Fresno State has to offer. Learn as much as you can and remember to have some fun along the way.