Hye Sharzhoom Armenian Action
MARINE VARDANYAN – Editor
“It is simply in the nature of Armenian to study, to learn, to question, to speculate, to discover, to invent, to revise, to restore, to preserve, to make, and to give.” – William Saroyan.
Only two years after the Armenian Studies Program was established, Hye Sharzhoom was launched in April of 1979, providing students with an instrument to transmit ideas and issues important to the Armenian community and to expand awareness about the dynamic Armenian Studies Program and Armenian Students Organization.
For thirty-five years Hye Sharzhoom has sustained its mission. It has enabled individuals to share ideas, develop opinions, create connections, and preserve Armenian values. In each unique issue of Hye Sharzhoom, elements of Armenian culture can be observed. Our curiosity, boldness, pride, love, and all that is unique to Armenians exist in the newspaper. Hye Sharzhoom is a microcosm of Armenian nature, as described by the great Armenian-American writer William Saroyan.
Thirty-five remarkable years have been achieved by the assiduous work of the editors, staff writers, photographers, and advisors. Though students are in college for a relatively brief time, their contributions to Hye Sharzhoom are everlasting.
Hye Sharzhoom celebrates its 35th Anniversary with a look back and interviews with previous editors.
Bill Erysian
Editor: Fall 1979-Fall 1980
How did you become interested in joining the staff of Hye Sharzhoom? Why did you decide to become editor?
There were several of us who were journalism majors here at Fresno State when the first issues of Hye Sharzhoom were published in the late 1970s. We were also active in the Armenian Students Organization. Launching an Armenian students newspaper just seemed like the logical thing to do. We had the resources, the writing skills, and the desire to bring contemporary issues and debate within the Armenian community to the forefront, particularly those topics which affected Armenian students around the world.
How did your experience with Hye Sharzhoom impact your life?
Mostly it taught me that producing a newspaper, however limited in size, is a huge undertaking and involves a great deal of responsibility, not only to uphold the principles of journalistic integrity (at least those principles that existed some 30 years ago), but also the painstaking task of physically designing each issue. Desktop publishing was only in its infancy back then.
What were some lessons you learned by being on the staff?
As a former editor, it taught me the importance of encouraging others to write. I also learned about the importance of working as a team, particularly on projects which sometimes prompted strong opinions and emotions with my contemporaries.
What was your favorite part/best memory from writing for Hye Sharzhoom?
Literally spending late nights ‘cutting and pasting’ by hand each article of the newspaper only hours ahead of the early morning deadline set by the company that printed our issues.
In what ways has Hye Sharzhoom changed since your time as editor?
It has become a publication with more pages per issue. Hye Sharzhoom also went color at some point in the past. That was a great leap forward. Also, it has developed a consistency in design and presentation, which is important for any publication, especially one that has lasted this long.
In your opinion, what does it take to be an effective editor?
Strong writing skills, the ability to identify what is newsworthy and having patience.
Vahe Messerlian
Editor: Fall 1984-Spring 1985
How did you become interested in joining the staff of Hye Sharzhoom? Why did you decide to become editor?
As a freshman in 1983-1984, I was very involved with the ASP and ASO. By the beginning of my sophomore year, Hye Sharzhoom hadn’t been published for a year and a half. I remember thinking about the value of the Armenian Studies Program in the Fresno community, and how its contributions and potential went largely unrecognized. Hye Sharzhoom was a forum to communicate what we had to offer and it was unacceptable that it wasn’t being utilized as such. The inimitable Dr. Dickran Kouymjian encouraged me to take on the project.
How did your experience with Hye Sharzhoom impact your life?
My parents and grandparents always encouraged civic participation and contribution to community. Hye Sharzhoom was natural extension of that foundation. It was a vehicle through which I could further explore my Armenian roots and collaborate with others who shared the same passion. Hye Sharzhoom allowed me-indeed, forced me-to develop a greater awareness and interest in history, politics, culture, people and events around me, which continues to the present.
What were some lessons you learned by being on the staff?
The most difficult lesson was accepting that many people simply do not share the same interests or possess the same commitment as you. I learned to focus my efforts on getting the message out and trying to impart knowledge, instill awareness and encourage participation, and let the rest take its course. Also, it’s important to have a dedicated crew supporting your efforts. One person can’t do it all. Lastly, you can never proofread enough, as I learned from a few regrettable errors.
What was your favorite part/best memory from writing for Hye Sharzhoom?
My fondest memories are the late nights in the Daily Collegian office working to meet deadline. While those were exhausting evenings, we formed strong bonds with those who stood by our side. Randy Baloian was a constant companion and welcome critic, and Karen Deorian was a never complaining and always delightful workhorse. The camaraderie was special and some of those friendships endure to this day.
In what ways has Hye Sharzhoom changed since your time as editor?
From a production standpoint, technology has changed everything. Gone are the days of the typesetting machine, pulling strips of special photographic paper from an expensive washing machine-sized contraption and then cutting and pasting it all together on a lighted board. Back then we had to be draftsmen as well as journalists! Computer programs today allow for more creativity, better graphics, greater flexibility, easier editing. Substantively, many factors have influenced its content-the growth of the Armenian Studies Program, the independence of Armenia, a larger, more diverse, and more involved Armenian student body, and of course, the availability of information with the advent of the internet.
In your opinion, what does it take to be an effective editor?
Vision. The editor should give balance to Hye Sharzhoom by presenting various aspects of the Armenian community, both on campus and off, to make the newspaper appealing to a greater audience. Strong writing. The newspaper should reflect the language competence, analysis and elements of style that are to be expected of college students. Poor grammar is inexcusable and lackluster prose will bore and disappoint the reader. Ability to delegate. To focus on her duties as an editor, she must be able to bring the talents of many individuals together and allow their energy to be reflected in the publication.
One final note: I have followed Hye Sharzhoom’s evolution since my time there. Year after year, the editors and staff put together an excellent newspaper in which the Fresno community should take great pride. You have done an outstanding job of showcasing the successes of the ASP and ASO, keeping up with current events, and presenting the richness of our culture and heritage. I am very encouraged with the activism and energy of the Armenian students at Fresno State. Keep up the good work!
To be continued in the May 2014 edition of Hye Sharzhoom.
Randy Baloian
Editor: Fall 1985-Spring 1986
How did you become interested in joining the staff of Hye Sharzhoom? Why did you decide to become editor?
I realize that this doesn’t sound very idealized, but the truth is that I became involved in the paper at the urging—or rather through the arm twisting—of my longtime friend Vahe Messerlian. Because of a heavy course load, I really didn’t want to do it at first. Of course, in looking back, I’m glad that my old buddy did twist my arm a bit. Thanks Vahe.
How did your experience with Hye Sharzhoom impact your life?
After graduating from Fresno State, I moved on to UC Davis, where some fellow students and I formed an Armenian Students Association there. More recently, my two daughters have attended the Charlie Keyan Armenian Community School. Additionally, I’ve served on the school board and even edited some issues of the CKACS newspaper Arekag. Without a doubt, my interest and participation in the Armenian community are direct results of my previous involvement in the Hye Sharzhoom, ASO, and ASP.
What were some lessons you learned by being on the staff?
As with writing in general, I’ve learned to read my stuff over and over, then have someone else proof it. It’s important to minimize your mistakes, although in the end you have to accept that you’re going to make them no matter what you do. Nobody bats a thousand.
What was your favorite part/best memory from writing for Hye Sharzhoom?
By far, the most memorable times were working with Vahe, Prof. Barlow, and all the other people that contributed to the paper. It was work, too, and yet even when I see our photographer Gary Kazanjian (who is arguably the Hye Sharzhoom’s all-time best photojournalist), he still makes me laugh the way he used to. There is something to be said for working shoulder to shoulder with your friends and comrades. This is what community is all about. This is what moves Hye Tad forward.
In what ways has Hye Sharzhoom changed since your time as editor?
It’s been a long time since I was the editor—almost 30 years. Yet I really don’t see that many substantial differences in the overall product—it’s still very much a student newspaper. I suppose that with the advances in computer technology, the paper’s graphics have improved in that time. I’d also imagine that the production of the paper is probably easier now than it was back then. In comparison with today’s computerized programs and templates for newspapers, the way we used to lay out the paper in that grimy Daily Collegian office back in the mid-1980s was akin to setting type for Gutenberg’s press. By present day standards, it was right out of the Middle Ages.
In your opinion, what does it take to be an effective editor?
Effort.
Ara Jabagchourian
Editor: Fall 1994-Fall 1995
How did you become interested in joining the staff of Hye Sharzhoom? Why did you decide to become editor?
I always believed it was important to be involved in the Armenian Community. The position opened up and I thought to myself, “why not me.”
How did your experience with Hye Sharzhoom impact your life?
It offered me the ability to be connected to the Armenian community while also being a student at Fresno State.
What were some lessons you learned by being on the staff?
Getting a large project together while seeking contribution from others can be both rewarding and frustrating, depending on the level of commitment from others.
What was your favorite part/best memory from writing for Hye Sharzhoom?
Late nights with Prof. Barlow trying to get the paper finalized.
In what ways has Hye Sharzhoom changed since your time as editor?
I have not observed much of a change. If anything, it has gotten better.
In your opinion, what does it take to be an effective editor?
The ability to work with others whose priority may be something other than an article for the paper (e.g. exams or papers for class).
John Jabagchourian
Editor: Spring 2000-Spring 2001
How did you become interested in joining the staff of Hye Sharzhoom? Why did you decide to become editor?
Growing up in Fresno, I had been involved in various Armenian organizations and community events. As a Fresno State student taking Armenian Studies courses it just seemed natural to be involved in the paper. I started off writing a couple articles at a friend’s request, and then moved on to Editor. I decided to become Editor because I was interested in media writing and thought I could contribute to the paper.
How did your experience with Hye Sharzhoom impact your life? What were some lessons you learned?
I really developed my writing and editing skills quite well, skills that help me today in my own writing or that of my students. I also learned quite a bit about layout design and graphic design from my initial experiences with the paper. Being Editor also provided a bit of notoriety when I traveled and met Armenians across the United States and world, many would say they would get the Hye Sharzhoom and recognized my name. Hye Sharzhoom has been an institution of Fresno State and the Armenian Studies Program—it is great to be part of that legacy.
What was your favorite part/best memory from writing for Hye Sharzhoom?
During my tenure as Editor, Prof. Barlow and I worked to make some big changes to the paper. One change was when we transitioned from literally cutting and pasting articles and pictures to a paper layout to send to the printer, to going completely electronic to get the paper printed. I hated the cut and pasting of paper and trying to line up everything as exact as possible and was happy to streamline that process.
The other memory was when we published the first full color edition of the paper. It was a bit of work and something totally new that we tried out, to go full color with pictures. I remember being quite nervous to see if it would turn out and look good because there were a lot of potential sources of error. The papers were delivered to the Armenian Studies Program office, I ran over to see them and was amazed at how good it looked and what we as a staff accomplished, being one of the first student papers at the university level to produce a full color paper on print.
The last memory was the Hye Sharzhoom folding sessions. Always something we groaned about doing, but actually had a great time with friends, joking around while folding the paper for mailing.
In what ways has Hye Sharzhoom changed since your time as editor?
Not too much has changed since I was editor. The paper has the same strong formula of providing stories on ASO and ASP events, students’ perspectives, and acknowledging student and faculty achievements. What has changed is my appreciation for the paper. Now living outside Fresno, getting the Hye Sharzhoom keeps me connected to the ASP and Fresno State in an endearing way. It is great to see stylistic changes each editor brings to putting the paper together.
In your opinion, what does it take to be an effective editor?
Strong writing skills, lots of friends you can encourage to write an article or take photos even though they got midterms to worry about, some fresh ideas for stories, and taking a general interest in the success of the paper.
Zhanna Bagdasarov
Editor: Fall 2005-Fall 2007
How did you become interested in joining the staff of Hye Sharzhoom? Why did you decide to become editor?
Initially, I began with Hye Sharzhoom by merely contributing one article per issue. I recall mostly functioning as a co-author, which was a wonderful way to get to know others working on the paper and discuss ideas from differing perspectives. A few years later, after having contributed to a number of issues on varying topics, I realized my strong dedication to the paper. It invoked in me a sense of pride, especially when I realized the large number of people it reached. Choosing to become an editor was a simple decision. I knew that I enjoyed writing and wanted to see the paper flourish, so becoming an editor simply made sense.
How did your experience with Hye Sharzhoom impact your life?
I honestly believe that working on the Hye Sharzhoom solidified my love for writing. I have since chosen a career in academia, and thus writing is an immense part of my work. Working on the Hye Sharzhoom taught me that well-researched and effective writing takes time and focus. The experience allowed me to hone my written communication skills, which is something I rely on in my daily life and my work.
What were some lessons you learned by being on the staff?
First and foremost, I learned that it takes a whole lot of effort and many committed people to make this newspaper possible. Additionally, I learned that working on a newspaper involves tolerance and compromise. It is not uncommon for certain stories to be controversial, and therefore elicit strong emotions. One inevitably learns how to navigate sensitive issues and situations when working on a newspaper.
What was your favorite part/best memory from writing for Hye Sharzhoom?
Some of my favorite memories are of times spent with other Hye Sharzhoom staff folding the paper for mailing and distribution. Many hours were spent talking, laughing, eating pizza, and building life-long friendships during the folding of the paper. Those are the times of my life I now remember fondly.
In what ways has Hye Sharzhoom changed since your time as editor?
Aside from the obvious (e.g., new staff members, different writing styles, new topics), the Hye Sharzhoom has definitely shown some expansion. For instance, it appears that more students are getting involved in production and writing of the paper. I was pleasantly surprised to see the large number of names representing staff writers. It also has not escaped me that the activities of the Armenian Students Organization (ASO) have been featured much more in the Hye Sharzhoom over the last few years, which is another testament to the involvement of the students in Armenian Studies Program activities. However, what is nice to see is that the Hye Sharzhoom has remained the same over the years. It is still a newspaper devoted to featuring community events, providing an outlet for the students to voice their opinions, and keeping us abreast of all things Armenian.
In your opinion, what does it take to be an effective editor?
I think it mainly takes true investment in the project or task at hand. When people genuinely care about the work they are doing, it easily transfers to others. An effective editor should be able to convey his/her love for the project and instill a similar sentiment in the staff. I also think it takes dedication, compromise, and an ability to truly listen to the staff. The staff members should know that the editor appreciates their perspectives and welcomes their opinions.
Tamar Karkazian
Editor: Fall 2010-Spring 2013
How did you become interested in joining the staff of Hye Sharzhoom?
When I decided to go to Fresno State, I knew I wanted to be part of the Hye Sharzhoom staff. Growing up, I saw my cousin’s articles, stories and pictures in Hye Sharzhoom and knew that I wanted to do it too.
Why did you decide to become editor?
I really enjoyed writing for the Hye Sharzhoom and when the opportunity came to do more with the newspaper I was glad to!
How did your experience with Hye Sharzhoom impact your life?
The way Hye Sharzhoom impacted my life was by showing me how connected we all are as a culture. Whenever a new issue of Hye Sharzhoom would come out it would be followed by someone’s positive comments. Realizing how far of a reach it had was amazing.
What was your favorite part/best memory from writing for Hye Sharzhoom?
One of my very favorite memories with Hye Sharzhoom was when a group of the writers and I were folding the papers to send internationally. I remember about half of the staff had come and we were working as a team to send them out. As we were stuffing the newspapers into envelopes, we started looking at the addresses. We were amazed at how far our stories traveled, and who are stories were sent to. I remember our excitement and awe, as a group, as how far our voices traveled through Hye Sharzhoom.