Let's Make Change Together.

Silva Vardanyan
American University of Armenia
Bachelor of Science in Data Science
Huys Scholar 2024 (Engineering in Armenia Scholarship)
Armenia, as a developing country, holds immense potential for growth and advancement. Reflecting on my personal journey, I understand how vital community and surroundings are for individual growth. Being from Yeghegnadzor, a small town with limited resources, I have been fortunate to receive unwavering support from my family and community. This support has allowed me to pursue my passions and grow continually. It is through these experiences that I have come to appreciate how the development of a country begins with the growth of its individuals and communities. When individuals strive to grow and improve, the country itself flourishes.
This principle has driven my commitment to community engagement and education. My experiences have shown that fostering a supportive and empowering environment can lead to significant personal and collective growth. It is this belief that fuels my dedication to utilizing data science as a tool for Armenia’s development. By using data analytics, we can ensure that every individual and organization maximizes their potential, leading to overall national progress.
Education and community engagement are foundational to fostering continuous learning and development. Through my personal experiences, I have witnessed the transformative power of these elements. Conducting non-formal seminars and community projects has shown me how small efforts can impact individuals and communities. For instance, I have participated in workshops on cybersecurity as a guest speaker for individuals and students from Artsakh. These workshops helped to empower participants to navigate the digital world safely and confidently. Initiatives focused on career development, interview skills, and CV preparation have helped many to meet the current job market demands. As a FLEX finalist and a CR Representative of American Councils, I have seen how scaled actions contribute to community development. My volunteer work at Orran’s Children Center, assisting young girls in applying for international programs, has further demonstrated the importance of nurturing future girl leaders. Moreover, my involvement with DASA2, where I tutor Armenian students in the USA in math, reinforces the significance of education in bridging gaps and fostering growth. These experiences highlight how community support and educational opportunities can drive growth at both individual and community levels.
Understanding the challenges within Armenia’s economic system, especially through the lens of a startup, is also essential. My experience with the startup doodooc, conducting market analysis, and comparing Armenia’s potential with global standards illustrates the opportunities and obstacles in our economic landscape. While collaborating with Armenian businesses, it became clear that relying solely on global investments might not always be the best approach. Instead, focusing on utilizing our own resources and investing money in data-driven work can lead to sustainable growth. Data analysts can help businesses understand patterns, apply machine learning techniques for accurate predictions, and automate processes, saving time and enhancing efficiency. Utilizing neuromarketing and digital marketing analysis can further help businesses succeed regionally and globally.
Encouraging future analysts and change-makers to take action is vital for Armenia’s development. Armenia has tremendous potential in various sectors, such as technology, tourism, and agriculture. Individuals can harness local resources and data to drive innovation and growth by concentrating their efforts on these areas. For instance, data analysts can optimize agricultural practices, enhance tourism experiences through targeted marketing, and develop tech solutions tailored to local needs. These focused efforts can transform Armenia into a hub of innovation and progress. We can make significant strides toward a prosperous future by leveraging our country’s unique strengths and resources.
In conclusion, the commitment to utilizing data science for Armenia’s growth and development is vital. By focusing on education, community engagement, and economic development, we can ensure Armenia realizes its full potential. The bachelor’s degree at the American University of Armenia will help me achieve these goals by providing strong academic training and practical experience. The university’s focus on community involvement and global perspectives will enhance my ability to contribute to Armenia’s progress. Together, we can bridge the gaps and create a prosperous future for our country.
I am aware that Huys Foundation is granting the Huys Scholarship to me with the anticipation of my good faith pursuit and implementation of the projects and undertakings described in this letter, to which I hereby commit.