Hye Sharzhoom Armenian Action
Violeta Agabekyan
Recreation Administration
Minor in Armenian Studies
What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
My strong interest in my culture encouraged me. I wanted to learn more about the Armenian culture, and in doing so I learned about the history of Armenia, the meaning of being Armenian, and the importance of keeping my culture alive.
What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event?
My favorite event was the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day in the year I was most involved in the Armenian Students Organization. The ASO organized and planned the speeches, vigil, performances, and music, and it was a beautiful sight to see. Armenians from all over came to experience this commemoration, and I had such a great time assisting with it.
What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program?
I am thankful for the professors that have dedicated so much of their time to teaching students and keeping the history of the Armenians relevant. It is definitely challenging, and I appreciate Professors Barlow Der Mugrdechian and Hagop Ohanessian for their consistent efforts to encourage students to get involved and take an Armenian Studies course. They made my experience with the Minor valuable and challenging, and I enjoyed it!
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to utilize my degree and find a job as a Park Ranger. However, I am leaving my options open. There is so much that I am passionate about, it is hard to narrow my choices down. Whatever I decide to do with my degree, I am constantly finding ways to incorporate my culture and reflect on what it took for my parents to get me here.
Suzanna Ekmekchyan
Biology
Minor in Armenian Studies
What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
My mom was involved in Armenian Studies while at Fresno State and she would always tell me about how great her experience was. I was also excited to further my knowledge about Armenian history and arts because I believe it is so important to maintain my culture outside of our homeland, since that is the main connecting factor of what makes us Armenian.
What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event?
My favorite Armenian Studies class would have to be the Armenian Studies 120T weekend courses. I had the opportunity to take the “Fresno Armenians” course and the “Armenian Church” course. Both were very insightful and related to living as an Armenian in Fresno. It was a very fun experience to spend time with my peers learning about important moments in Armenian history and traveling around Fresno to see the impact that Armenians have had on the community we live in. The Armenian Studies Summer Study trip to Armenia as well, was an unforgettable experience.
What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program?
I value the connections I have made with my peers and the invaluable information that I have learned over the years. I get excited when I am granted the opportunity to educate people on topics I have learned about in my courses. I am so proud to have furthered my education about my culture and history. I am also so happy to have been a part of such an amazing Program that has given me opportunities that I would have never been given otherwise.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am currently in the process of applying to Dental School. I hope to finish my dental education and then return to the Central Valley. I plan to take over my father’s private practice and continue to serve my community.
Matthew Mugrdechian
Kinesiology-Physical Education
Minor in Armenian Studies
What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
I took the Armenian Studies courses because I wanted to learn more about Armenia and become closer with the community.
What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event?
My favorite was the Armenian Studies Summer Study trip to Armenia. I felt like I learned more there and connected better with my culture than I have anywhere else.
What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program?
I value most the relationships that I have formed with my peers in the Armenian Studies Program.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to become a Physical Education teacher.
Kara Statler
History
Minor in Armenian Studies
What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
I was originally going to just take Armenian Studies 10, because I am Armenian and it filled a General Education requirement. However, I really enjoyed that class and the next semester I signed up to take two more Armenian Studies classes. And then the Armenian Studies Program was taking a trip to Armenia, and I decided to go, and before I knew it, I had gone to Armenia twice and completed my Minor.
What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event?
I think my favorite activity was my two trips to Armenia. They were both so eye-opening and made me realize how important being Armenian is to me.
What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program?
I value how much these classes and this Program made me fall in love with my culture. While I always knew I was Armenian, I never really knew what it meant until I was given the opportunity to take these classes, participate in activities, and be a member of the Armenian Students Organization. This Program helped shape me into who I am today.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to further pursue my studies in the field of history.