BAPG Students Reflect on Summer Internship Experiences

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YEREVAN, Armenia — Internships are invaluable opportunities for students to gain real-world work experience, develop essential skills, and explore career paths. In this article, we spotlight the remarkable internship experiences of several students in the Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Governance (BAPG) program.

Gregory Akopyan (BAPG ’25): “Hi! My name is Greg Akopyan. I am a junior in the BAPG program at AUA. This summer, I participated in the Leo Sarkisian Internship with the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA). ANCA is the leading Armenian-American grassroots organization in the U.S., focused on political advocacy, legislative affairs, and outreach. Working with a team of eleven other young and passionate diasporans across North America, this intensive 6-week internship in Washington, D.C., taught me valuable skills in public advocacy, government relations, and the U.S. legislative process. My favorite part of the internship was lobbying all 535 congressional offices, getting a behind-the-scenes look at the importance of relationships, and personal communication in politics. The skills, knowledge, and connections I gained throughout the summer will help me attain my vision of giving diaspora communities a voice and working toward a safe and prosperous Armenia.”

Zhaneta Hovsepyan (BAPG ’25): “Within the framework of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)/Armenia internship program at the Democracy and Governance Office (DGO), I had the opportunity to learn and grow both professionally and personally during my six-month internship experience. The internship has been a highly insightful learning experience, as I was engaged in conducting extensive desk research along with site visits, which critically contributed to enhancing my research, communication, teamwork, and time-management skills. During my internship at USAID/Armenia, I was able to put into practice the skills and understanding of research in political and social sciences acquired during my studies in the BAPG program.

Another great experience Zhaneta highlights is her participation in the Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI ’23) for Student Leaders program of the U.S. State Department designed to develop the leadership skills of foreign students. “I had the opportunity to take part in an intensive five-week academic program at the University of Washington, which deepened my understanding of the U.S. while enhancing my leadership skills. The program comprised site visits, leadership development activities, cultural exchanges, and community service that provided valuable knowledge, skills, and insight, making the entire journey a learning and truly enriching experience. This intensive academic program has positioned me as a well-rounded student leader ready to contribute to my community.”

Emma Martirosyan’s (BAPG ’25): “I had the opportunity to be an intern at the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Armenia. More specifically, I was placed in the Unit of Protocol at the Department of International Legal Cooperation. My main duties were maintaining communication, writing summaries of discussions at official meetings, and synopsizing those for press releases. I also did research about the justice systems of various countries and helped formulate plans for potential cooperation. It was an amazing experience that developed my communication, as well as writing, and research skills. Additionally, I learned a lot about the justice system in Armenia, legislative processes, and international affairs. I also met amazing people and built useful connections.” 

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 and graduate degree and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values.