This spotlight is part of a special series dedicated to the four new graduating cohorts of the Class of 2025 — the Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Governance, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, the Master of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy, and the Master of Public Affairs — each of which reflects the mission of the American University of Armenia (AUA) to cultivate excellence, impact, and innovation across diverse fields.
The inaugural 2025 graduating cohort of the Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Governance (BAPG) program leaves a lasting mark on AUA. This dynamic group of students demonstrated unwavering commitment to their studies, their peers, and the values that define the University community. Through four years of intensive coursework, research, and internships, they have grown into thoughtful leaders and bold changemakers.
Having completed their mandatory internships and capstone projects, the students not only demonstrated their academic and professional readiness, but also applied their knowledge to real-world challenges. Their capstones reflect a wide range of interests and societal concerns, from public policy and governance to civic engagement and global affairs. Two of the most outstanding projects have been recommended by faculty to be featured on the BAPG website, showcasing the cohort’s creativity, critical thinking, and commitment to impact. In addition, seven students broadened their academic experience by spending a semester abroad through exchange programs during their studies.
“We call this cohort the Trailblazers,” said Dr. Yevgenya Jenny Paturyan, BAPG program chair. “Their journey began in Fall 2021, a semester that carried deep significance — it marked the first return to campus following the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 War. Among the first 42 students to enter the program were five veterans. From the outset, they formed a tight-knit community, shaping the Program’s spirit through their resilience and sense of purpose.”
The first BAPG cohort helped define the Program’s identity by embracing shared values of community, curiosity, solidarity, compassion, honesty, and professionalism. They navigated the uncertainties of a new and evolving program with maturity, generosity, and a refreshing sense of humor. “They weren’t just students; they were co-creators of a legacy,” Dr. Paturyan fondly recalled, adding, “They accepted the imperfections and uncertainties of a program-under-construction with grace, constructive suggestions, and a dose of healthy humor. They embraced the journey of discovery and self-challenge. They worked hard and had fun. They created traditions that I hope will be continued.”
Indeed, the Trailblazers not only set the bar for those who will follow, but also left behind examples — both inspiring and instructive — that will guide future generations of BAPG students. As they now move into the world, they will continue to blaze new paths, just as they did from the very beginning.
Associate Professor Dr. Asbed Kotchikian reflected on the journey of the BAPG Class of 2025 by quoting Ernest Hemingway, “There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.” He then continued, “I have witnessed many of the PG students pursuing this path of nobility, and they have indeed become better humans in the past four years through curiosity, perseverance, and by learning to question everything, sometimes even their own beliefs.”
Graduate in Focus: Alis Sharafyan (BAPG ’25)
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.