Spotlights

Yrys Abdieva, European Studies

"I want to visit all of the European countries because each of them has merits and a different view of the world."

- You are a freshman in the European Studies department. A little time has passed since you’ve entered. Please tell us why you chose AUCA.

I don’t regret entering this department or this University. It is the best and most interesting department for me. I like the American-style education system because it allows students themselves to select courses which are convenient to them in terms of time. Moreover, AUCA has a vivid student life, high-quality professors, and promotes an environment of individuality. Students here really do enjoy studying, and are not simply attending lessons. Finally, the University offers many overseas opportunities to its students.


- Tell us about your department. What have you already learned? Why do you like it?

I like the classes, which are very interesting. In this department I can study European culture, history, and policy. I like it because the things I study are interesting and I learn something new in each class, which is why I try not to miss any classes. We have international faculty members from Turkey and Germany teaching us, and they hold our attention in class so well that I don’t want to miss a single word of what they’re saying.


- What do you want to be after graduating?

I want to work at one of the various European organizations, but before that I want to get an M.S. After getting my masters I’ll try and join the U.N.


- What kind of jobs can students of the European Studies Department get after graduating?

History is taught in the department which makes me think that students can work at a consulate or enter political life after graduating. Also, students can work with international organizations, or even work as translators.


- Do you have to learn another foreign language besides English?

From the 2nd year on we will have an option to learn either German or French.


- What European countries do you want to visit?

I want to visit all of the European countries because each of them has merits and a different view of the world.


- Have you ever participated in special programs or summer schools?

Yes, I participated in the FLEX program for educational and cultural exchange.


- How do you spend your free time?

Usually I work at the AIESEC International Youth Organization, where I learn a lot of new things. I also sometimes attend other clubs at AUCA. Our university has a diverse body of clubs.


- What valuable advice can you give to prospective students of European Studies?

As our professor Gorkem Atsungur always says: “If you like European Studies, then success will be yours.” Therefore, if you are interested in this wonderful department, then try and enter. We will be glad to see you among our students!

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