AUA Welcomes CSUF Students

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YEREVAN, Armenia — On June 6, the American University of Armenia (AUA) hosted students from the Armenian Studies Program of California State University, Fresno (CSUF), as part of their two week visit to Armenia. Led by the Berberian Coordinator of the Armenian Studies Program and Director of the Center for Armenian Studies at CSUF Barlow Der Mugrdechian and AUA Adjunct Lecturer Dr. Hrag Papazian, who was the 19th Henry S. Khanzadian Kazan Visiting Professor in Armenian Studies at Fresno State in Fall 2022. Dr. Papazian teaches Cultural Anthropology and Cultural Geography at AUA.

The morning began with a guided tour of AUA, led by Elen Pahlevanyan from the Office of Communications, who provided an overview of the history of the University, its founding, development, and impact in Armenia over the past three decades. 

Following the tour, the group gathered in a classroom where Dr. Papazian briefly presented the history of Armenia, beginning with the First Republic to the most recent social, political, and geopolitical developments within and around the country. He also touched on various conditions, issues, challenges, and opportunities Armenia currently faces. 

“It was a pleasure to see the Fresno State Armenian Studies students visiting Armenia and AUA. Having taught at that program very recently, I was happy to welcome them to our country and university, stated Papazian. “I would like to thank the students and director Barlow Der Mugrdechian for their interest and to reiterate that we would always be happy to welcome them again to AUA.”

“The students and I enjoyed the tour of the AUA facilities. Fresno State and AUA have a joint agreement for Fresno State students to study for a semester abroad at AUA, so the tour gave our students a better understanding of AUA, stated Professor Barlow Der Mugrdechian

“Our students also enjoyed a discussion with Dr. Hrag Papazian, who discussed current events in Armenia. I was happy that the students had the opportunity to visit AUA on our trip to Armenia.”

The presentation by Dr. Papazian concluded with an open discussion that provided Fresno State students the opportunity to ask questions and share their impressions of Armenia. The active exchange of ideas and experiences further enriched their educational journey, fostering a stronger connection with Armenian culture and heritage. 

Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, affiliated with the University of California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission in the United States. AUA provides local and international students with Western-style education through top-quality undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values.