YEREVAN, Armenia — Each January, the American University of Armenia (AUA) hosts interns from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) as part of its ongoing academic collaboration. The initiative brings intensive courses to Armenia and provides not only AUA students but also those across other universities in Yerevan, as well as high school students, with direct exposure to teaching methods and academic culture of leading international universities.
This year, the Zaven P. and Sonia Akian College of Science and Engineering (ACSE) welcomed MIT interns Neha Basu and Sandra Youssef, who led a three-week workshop, titled “Building and Exploring Projects in Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering.” The workshop was designed for students interested in engineering and applied sciences and focused on learning through practice.
The course combined short lectures with hands-on sessions, emphasizing the application of theory through small projects. Students explored basic concepts in materials science and mechanical engineering by building structures such as a macaroni bridge, and working with solar modules. They also worked with engineering software tools, including SolidWorks, and were introduced to CAD/CAM principles. Through guided exercises and team activities, participants learned how engineering ideas are translated into digital models, how design choices affect material behavior, and how computer-aided tools are used in real engineering workflows. The sessions were held over three weeks in January at the AUA campus, including the prototyping laboratory, and students who actively participated received certificates of completion.
Participant Shogher Derowanessian described the learning experience as practical and engaging: “As a part of the MIT-AUA co-organized course on Material Science and Mechanical Engineering, we explored core engineering concepts through hands-on projects like a macaroni bridge and solar modules. The course blended creativity with practical experiments.”
For the interns, the program also offered an opportunity to engage with Armenia beyond the classroom. Youssef reflected on her experience in Armenia: “During our time exploring Armenia, we were met with great hospitality and kindness from our hosts. Everything from the museums, monasteries, food, art, and culture deepened our enjoyment and appreciation for this country. I know I will carry with me happy memories of the places steeped in history, and the lovely people we had the pleasure of meeting.”
In her turn, Basu highlighted the educational value of working with students from different academic backgrounds: “Teaching students at various stages, from high schoolers to master’s students, pushed me to rethink how I communicate materials science, challenging me to present fundamental concepts in ways that anyone, regardless of background, can find engaging. This experience has been especially rewarding because of the students, who brought their creativity, curiosity, and motivation to every class.”
Commenting on the collaboration, ACSE Dean Dr. Reza Malekian, noted: “We thank the MIT International Science and Technology Initiatives (MISTI) program for supporting this valuable academic mobility and global exchange and appreciate the contributions of MIT interns Neha Basu and Sandra Youssef, whose intensive teaching and engagement with our university and local high school students created a dynamic and enriching learning experience. This collaboration strengthens not only the technical competencies of all participating students, but also their broader social and cultural perspectives, fostering relevant knowledge exchange and international academic connections.”
The annual January workshops reflect AUA’s continued commitment to international academic cooperation and hands-on education. By hosting MIT interns and offering practice-focused courses, the University aims to strengthen students’ technical foundations while connecting them to a broader global academic community.
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.
