During the summer of 2023, I studied Russian in Yerevan, Armenia. Being able to travel abroad during my time at UTK is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I explored new places, met many new people, and experienced a culture unlike my own. Armenia is a small country between the Black and Caspian Seas with a history dating back over 2700 years. Nestled in the Caucasus mountains, Armenia has stunning hikes and untouched landscapes. Being in the capital city of Yerevan, I was able to experience so many new things. I tried countless new foods like khachapuri, mante, and shawarma. I went to many museums that showcased the best of Armenian folk history, music, and manuscripts. I had one-on-one Russian classes every day, and being able to learn a new language has given me a better understanding about how language impacts our daily lives. Because Armenia was once a Soviet country, many people still spoke Russian in addition to Armenian. It was challenging to practice my language skills with strangers and make my way around the city. But, it gave me a deeper appreciation for how common English is as a language around the world and a much greater respect for anyone trying to learn English, too. I hope to continue my study of Russian and Armenian in the States.

            I had the opportunity to travel to Dilijan, Armenia to Dilijan National Park and hike some amazing trails and see an 11th century Christian monastery. The landscape in Dilijan reminded me of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it was so fun being able to explore another part of Armenia. In Yerevan the weather was consistently above 90 degrees everyday, but in Dilijan, it was much cooler and a nice break from the hot weather. My time in Armenia was unforgettable, and I can’t recommend studying abroad in college enough. I gained a newfound sense of what Armenian culture is like and how different it is from the U.S. I explored so many new places and tried amazing foods. Armenia is one of the best places I’ve ever been and I cannot wait to go back again. This experience has been a highlight of my college experience, and I am very grateful I was able to live and learn in a different country.

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