YEREVAN, Armenia — Gayane Gevorgyan (BSN ’27) is a senior student in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the American University of Armenia (AUA). She has long dreamed of pursuing a higher nursing education. “For me, helping people is the most important thing in life,” she says. “And as I was deeply interested in healthcare, I earned a nursing college degree. Then, one day, I heard about the BSN program and was absolutely thrilled to apply because it was the first-of-its-kind program in Armenia.” The fact that the program was offered by AUA was another reason Gayane applied without hesitation. “Studying at AUA has been a dream for me,” she says.
From the very beginning, Gayane realized she was in the right place. “I was amazed by the attitude toward all students; it made me start to feel more comfortable and overcome the stigma related to my age,” she recalls.
During her studies, Gayane says she has developed many skills, the most important of which is patience. Adjusting to a new educational system and studying in English presented challenges, but perseverance and patience helped her overcome them.
She highlights that her overall perception of the nursing profession has changed since starting her path at AUA. “We have covered many important and interesting topics and subjects, which will help provide evidence-based and patient-centered care. I also realized that in order for the system to work seamlessly, every person operating within it has to do their job in a dedicated and systematic manner.”
Gayane is not working at the moment, preferring to focus entirely on her education. “I decided to take a small break in order to concentrate on my studies and become a more professional and knowledgeable nurse.” Speaking of her previous clinical experience, she notes that she has witnessed many gaps and wishes to contribute to improving the healthcare system in Armenia.
Gayane advises prospective nursing students not to hesitate or fear challenges. “This program is totally worth it. Here in Armenia, we have nothing to compare with it,” she says. “The BSN program provides not only new knowledge and new skills, but also a chance for all Armenian nurses to be heard and valued as they should be. It is an amazing journey that never truly ends once you begin. It is about personal growth, building lasting friendships, and having the opportunity to learn from some of the best professionals in the field.”
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 (WSCUC) 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.