Hye Sharzhoom Armenian Action
Dikran Dzhezyan
Bachelor of Science in Biology
Armenian Studies Minor
Spanish Minor
What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
My brother, who is also a Fresno State graduate, was the one who originally introduced me to the Armenian Studies courses. His praise of the classes persuaded me to enroll in an Arts of Armenia course taught by Professor Barlow Der Mugrdechian. I enjoyed the course so much that I decided to keep taking classes offered by the Program and before I knew it, I had completed a Minor in Armenian Studies.
What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event?
My favorite activity was the 2017 Summer Study excursion to Armenia, organized by the Armenian Studies Program. It was an unforgettable experience that allowed me to connect with my Armenian roots as well as my fellow classmates. After reading all about Armenian architecture, culture, and history, it was nice to see many of the things I had studied in person. The trip was the perfect capstone experience for my Armenian Studies Minor.
What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program?
I feel the community was the most valuable part of the Program. The Armenian Studies Program at Fresno State does an exceptional job at bringing together people of all backgrounds to celebrate Armenian history and culture. I met so many influential professors, researchers, and writers in the field of Armenian studies, all while making wonderful friendships with fellow classmates and Armenians of the Central Valley.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am eager to pursue a graduate education. Currently, I am preparing to take the Medical College Admission Test and I hope to apply to medical schools not long after. I am also working as a scribe in the emergency department of a hospital in order to increase my exposure to the practice of medicine. I enjoyed volunteering during my time in college. I hope to get more involved with the community in the coming months and donate my time to people or organizations in need of volunteers.
Krystal King
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies
Armenian Studies Minor
What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies course?
One of my friends had actually encouraged me to take an Armenian Studies class as an elective. As the semester went along, I started to become more passionate about the language and history. As a result, I decided to pursue the Minor!
What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event?
I absolutely love learning different languages, so for me, the elementary Armenian courses, 1A and 1B, were by far my favorite courses. Not to mention that Professor Der Mugrdechian made the classes fun, interesting, and memorable.
What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program?
What I valued most were the guest speakers and lectures! It was always a delight to learn more about Armenia and Armenians’ history from different points of view. Not only were these events interesting, but they enriched my experience with the Minor.
What are your plans after graduation?
I have enrolled in Fresno State’s teaching credential program. Once done, I will seek employment as either a middle school or high school math teacher.