Erasmus+ Success Story: Ellen Poghosyan, University of Tuscia
October 23, 2025
Ellen Poghosyan, a second-year master’s student in "Business Administration" at the International Scientific-Educational Center of the National Academy of Sciences of Armenia (ISEC NAS RA), spent one semester studying at the University of Tuscia (Italy) within the framework of the Erasmus+ student mobility program. She recently returned and shares her impressions in this interview.
– How expected was it for you to become a participant in ISEC NAS RA’s student mobility program?
– For me, it was like a dream come true. I had always wanted to study abroad and see what student life was like in Europe. When I found out I had been selected to go to Italy, I froze for a moment. I couldn’t believe it was real. It was something I had long hoped for, and when it finally happened, it became one of the most pleasant surprises of my life. At that moment, I realized that years of effort and dedication can truly open new doors.
– Why did you decide to take part in the mobility program?
– I chose to participate because I wanted to see what education is like in Europe—especially in Italy, which is considered a center of culture, art, and history. I wanted to step out of my usual environment and gain new experiences, not just academically, but also personally. For me, this mobility experience was a journey of self-discovery—to understand who I am when everything around me is new: the language, the people, the culture, even everyday life.
– What spiritual or intellectual values did you take with you to represent Europe?
– I brought everything that makes me Armenian—respect for traditions, faith, honesty, and warmth. In Italy, I represented not only myself but also Armenia and the Armenian people, through our culture, kindness, and tireless work ethic. I also carried the belief that education has true value only when it serves humanity. And most importantly, I brought with me a sincere curiosity to explore and learn from others.
– What did you see at the host university, in Italy, and in the cities you visited during your stay?
– I saw an environment where learning was deeply intertwined with life itself. The Italian university stood out because everything there felt free—the student was seen as a collaborator, not just a listener. The professors were more like guides than instructors. And Italy itself, with its picturesque towns, historic buildings, and welcoming smiles, felt like a living lesson about life. Every corner had its own story, and every conversation carried warmth. Often, I felt as if I were walking through the pages of history.
– What did you gain at the host university?
– I gained the most valuable thing—confidence in my own abilities. In Italy, I learned to express my thoughts despite language barriers, differing opinions, or discomfort. I also gained knowledge that was not only theoretical but based on real-life experience. Student discussions, teamwork, and even everyday conversations became an integral part of my educational journey.
– How and through what methodology was all this delivered to you?
– Everything there was built on collaboration. All classes were interactive—full of discussions, idea exchanges, and group analyses. Professors didn’t stand behind a podium; they sat alongside students as equals. This approach helped me understand the material more deeply and see that education is much more than earning grades—it’s a dialogue between knowledge and life.
– Did you gain more theoretical knowledge or practical skills?
– I would say both equally. I gained knowledge from a new perspective—an international one—and developed practical skills outside the classroom through communication, teamwork, and everyday experiences. I learned how to work in multicultural teams, adapt to new situations, and make the most of different educational systems.
– What did you bring back with you as intangible value—knowledge, skill, idea, or emotion?
– I brought back an entire world inside me. First, I developed an open mindset. I learned to appreciate diversity. I embraced patience—to understand and listen to others—and the belief that mutual respect is more powerful than any language. I also came up with new ideas for making the educational process more engaging and student-focused. Most importantly, I brought emotions—filled with joy, gratitude, and a gentle longing for Italy, which, for a while, became my second home.
– What is the title of your master’s thesis, and how did your stay in Italy contribute to its preparation?
– My thesis topic is “Problems of Formation and Development of Marketing Policy (on the example of an Armenian organization).” Being in Italy had a significant impact on my research. Observing how Italian companies shape their marketing policies—focusing on the story, emotions, and values behind a product—helped me develop a new approach in my work. Additionally, the mobility experience provided me the chance to study European marketing strategies and compare them with the Armenian reality. This helped me understand potential directions for developing our business environment and how international experience can be adapted to the unique features of Armenian organizations.
– Comparing yourself before going to Italy and after returning, what changes do you notice?
– After Italy, I am still the same person, yet at the same time, much more complete. Italy taught me one essential thing—independence is true freedom. There, I realized I could fully rely on myself, whether navigating a new city or simply entering a café. The feeling of hesitation is gone—I learned to live the way I want to, with both responsibility and confidence. This experience showed me that when you rely on yourself, the world opens up even more before you.
– How important do you think it is for Armenian students to take part in mobility programs?
– I think it’s essential. Programs like this literally open the world. When you see how other nations live, study, and cogitate, you begin to understand your own identity more deeply. Mobility programs not only provide knowledge but also shape a new type of Armenian student—one with a global outlook yet strong national roots. It’s an investment not only in personal growth but also in national development.
– How satisfied are you with your participation in this program?
– Honestly, I’m thrilled. This program provided me with something no classroom or lecturer could—experience, confidence, friendships, and memories that will last a lifetime. It transformed me—made me more open, brave, and grateful. Italy taught me to live not by waiting for opportunities, but by creating them. I am sincerely thankful to the Erasmus+ program, my home university, ISEC NAS RA, and the University of Tuscia for making this unique experience possible.
– What advice would you give to students who haven’t yet participated or are unsure whether to apply for such programs?
– I would say: don’t be afraid. Sometimes one decision can change your life. If you ever get the chance to go abroad, study, or just explore the world, don’t overthink it. Such programs offer not only new knowledge but also new worlds within yourself. Be curious, open, and ready to embrace every experience, because every step, even every small discomfort, eventually becomes a memory that makes you more mature and self-aware.
Interview conducted by Heghine Melkonyan,
Head of the Public Relations and Career Department, ISEC NAS RA
