YEREVAN, Armenia — Vahan Voskanyan (MAIRD ’26) is a senior in the Master of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy program at the American University of Armenia (AUA). His path to the classroom was unconventional: prior to joining the program, Vahan served in the Armenian army for seven years — two years of mandatory service followed by five years of professional service. These years of service shaped his perspective and ultimately motivated him to pivot toward a new field where he could continue to serve his country through diplomacy.
“I have always wanted to study international relations,” Vahan explains, “but it took time to gain the English proficiency required for the program. Even as a child, I was drawn to history – not just Armenian history, but the lives of European monarchs and the complexities of the medieval era. That was my earliest inspiration.”
The transition from military life to academia brought its own set of challenges, particularly the rigors of scholarly inquiry. For Vahan, the most demanding obstacle was learning to conduct formal research and structure academic papers. However, he views this as his most significant achievement at AUA. “Looking back over the last year and a half, I see a profound change in how I approach problems,” he says. “I’ve learned to look at issues from all possible angles — not just the perspective I find most comfortable — and to structure my findings with analytical precision.”
Vahan is currently applying these skills to his master’s thesis, which examines French influence in its former colonies. Simultaneously, he is undertaking an independent research practicum under the supervision of Professor Stephan Astourian. This study focuses on intelligence analysis, specifically the construction of scenarios based on emerging global events. “The research practicum offers the freedom to explore one’s interest,” Vahan notes. “In my case, it’s intelligence analysis and scenario building.”
Vahan credits his intellectual growth to the diverse expertise of his professors. He points to Dr. Astourian’s meticulous attention to historical details, Dr. Hovhannes Nikoghosyan’s rigorous standards for academic writing, and Aino Alaverdyan’s ability to make complex, practical topics engaging.
Beyond the classroom, Vahan is an active attendee at AUA’s academic events and seminars. He believes that for a diplomat, education must extend beyond the classroom. “We have so many opportunities to learn from experts during various academic events. So I try not to miss any session,” he remarks.
Offering advice to students entering the field, Vahan emphasizes the necessity of a global outlook. “Our adversaries and allies have strategic interests that span from Africa and North America to East and South Asia,” he explains. “It is vital that we look beyond our immediate borders. If we focus exclusively on our own region, we risk becoming half-blind to the global shifts that directly impact our future.”
As he nears the end of his studies at AUA, Vahan is looking toward a dual future in academia and practice. He plans to pursue a Ph.D. abroad while simultaneously seeking roles where he can apply his analytical training to real-world diplomatic challenges. For Vahan, the goal remains the same as it was during his years in uniform: to contribute to the strength and security of Armenia.
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.