Hye Sharzhoom Armenian Action
Compiled by Cailtlin Tiftick,
Staff Writer
Ashley Allred
Major: English
Minor: Armenian Studies
1. Why did you complete the Armenian Studies minor?
After completing the introductory course, I thought that Armenian Studies was a really interesting area of study, so I decided to complete the minor.
2. What have you learned from the program?
I think that I’ve developed a greater sense of cultural awareness.
3. Do you think the program will help you later in life, either academically, culturally, or socially?
Yes, because there are a lot of Armenian people in the Fresno area, and it’s always a good thing to know something about their culture.
4. What are your plans after graduation?
Get a teaching credential and possibly attend law school.
Talene Kasparian
Major: Mass Communication and Journalism-Advertising
Minor: Armenian Studies
Certificate: Special Events Planning
1. Why did you complete the Armenian Studies Minor?
I have chosen to complete a minor in Armenian Studies for several reasons. I wanted to learn more about what has shaped the Armenian culture today. Being Armenian and growing up in the culture, I felt that I was disconnected in a sense because I didn’t know the language or a lot of the historical background.
2. What have you learned from the program?
I have taken something away from every Armenian Studies class that I have taken over the last four years. I felt that the William Saroyan class was very interesting because there was a direct connection with him, since he was from Fresno, and my grandfather, who owned an autobody shop, used to work on his Cadillac. I also felt that after taking the courses on Armenian Architecture, I wanted to jump on a plane and fly there because I was so fascinated by the structures and detail.
3. Do you think the program will help you later in life either academically, culturally, or socially?
I do think that the Armenian Studies Program will help me later in life. I am interested more than ever to travel to Armenia and see everything that I have learned over the past few years. I also want to go back to Armenian Church Camp, to have fun and celebrate my culture even more. It has been almost 10 years since I have been there and I am now ready to teach what I have learned.
4. What are your plans after graduation?
After I graduate I plan to continue what I am doing now. I own Fowler Floral in Fowler, CA, and I am just very excited about spending more time in the shop and having my business grow in many ways. In late January I am also getting married so I am very excited about that. In February I will be traveling to Italy and I plan on going to Venice to visit the island of San Lazarro. A goal that I have is to also travel to Armenia in the future because I will have more time on my hands. I am very interested in traveling in general, and I think it would be an amazing experience to incorporate my love of traveling with the love of my culture.
Alina Melkonian
Major: Mathematics
Minor: Armenian Studies
Honors Certificate in Armenian Studies
1. Why did you complete the Armenian Studies minor?
I completed the Armenian Studies minor during my studies at Fresno State because I enjoyed the courses that were offered and I felt that the material was enriching my understanding and appreciation of my people’s history and identity.
2. What have you learned from the program?
It’s hard to sum up an answer for that question. Perhaps I can attempt to give you an idea of the impression the program left on me. There were moments in my studies of Armenian history/art/architecture when I was deeply moved and proud of the past accomplishments of my people. What boggled (and still boggles) my mind is how clearly committed these people were to their Christian faith. It is utterly shocking to read that throughout history their religious affiliation did not shift to any other religion. The program also helped me realize that my identity as an Armenian is something I shouldn’t take lightly. It’s not just a birthright to examine with a blind eye but one that involves a responsibility to honor.
3. Do you think the program will help you later in life, either academically, culturally, or socially?
Absolutely. I strongly hope that what I’ve learned about my people and my homeland will affect the identity of the Armenian people today in whatever way God chooses to use me.
4. What are your plans after graduation?
I’m contemplating graduate school for now. We’ll see which doors God will choose to open for me in the future.