Let's Make Change Together.

Zara Grigoryan
American University of Armenia
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Huys Scholar 2024 (Engineering in Armenia Scholarship)
Ever since I was a child, Armenia and the Armenian nation has been integral to my identity. My upbringing, life story, background, and experiences have shaped my commitment to the betterment of my homeland. Growing up in the border village of Aygedzor, Tavush meant hearing gunshots very often. I used to be puzzled when visitors expressed concerns about the village’s safety. I thought, “It’s such a shame that people won’t live here because of the gunfire,” not understanding their fear since nothing had happened to me or those I knew. But as I grew up, more casualties occurred, and I realized their fears were grounded. The security of those living near the border was never guaranteed.
Having first-hand exposure to the security threats and witnessing the suffering our nation has endured due to constant wars, I feel a profound personal responsibility to help secure our nation’s future. How do I plan to do it? After the completion of my degree at AUA Computer Sciences BA, I plan to work in the security industry, developing defensive weapons to protect Armenia from potential air attacks. This work will allow me to use my technological and scientific knowledge to solve security issues. The mathematical and technological expertise can be applied to many areas. Not only can this knowledge be used to create security weapons, but it also has broad applications across various fields. The skills I acquire through my studies won’t be limited to one specific use; they can be instrumental in addressing social, economic, logistical, and other issues. For example, mathematical models can optimize supply chain logistics, ensuring efficient distribution of resources in times of crisis. The blockade of Artsakh in 2023 highlighted the critical importance of an effective distribution system, as resources became scarce and the need for efficient allocation was paramount. Such crises can occur unexpectedly, underscoring the necessity of solid logistical planning. By mastering these disciplines through studying Mathematical Modeling in Computer Science, I will be equipped to tackle a wide range of challenges, contributing to our nation’s overall development and security.
Studying at the American University of Armenia offers me the opportunity to delve into Mathematics and Programming while providing a collaborative environment where I can engage with brilliant peers on diverse projects. Whether developing a Sudoku game for a homework assignment or conducting surveys to analyze data for a team project, the university fosters a rich, collaborative learning experience. I am constantly driven to excel academically, motivated to learn more, and pushing myself to achieve high standards as a student. I owe it to those who, for various reasons, cannot continue their studies to create a brighter future for them, their children, myself, my children, and our society. Additionally, AUA presents numerous opportunities to participate in workshops, courses, and guest lectures by leading experts in fields ranging from mathematics and computer science to aerospace engineering. This exposure not only equips me with the expertise and knowledge necessary to contribute to improving Armenia’s security but also allows me to build a strong network with fellow students, professors, and industry professionals.
Upon completing my studies, I plan to assemble a team of passionate and intelligent Armenians to join me in creating a more secure future. In Armenia, where the threat of war looms constantly, the most fundamental human need for physical security is often unmet. To address the lack of physical security as a fundamental human right, I have already laid a foundation by working on several projects that leverage the intersection of Mathematics, Physics, and Computational Sciences. Over the past few years, I have participated in various courses led by MIT professor Areg Danagoulian. I collaborated with a team in one course to create prototypes of different security weapons. One example was an infrared light detector, which could serve as a prototype defensive mechanism, as many modern weapons use infrared rays. During another workshop in the summer of 2023, led by Professor Danagoulian, my team, with my initiative, proposed a solution to the electrical energy crisis in blockaded Artsakh. Additionally, by participating in a quantum boot camp by BlueQubit, I learned to implement various quantum algorithms and gained more profound insights into cybersecurity. These and other courses I have taken form the basis for my future endeavors, laying the groundwork for more advanced projects.
My goal is to seize every opportunity to learn as much as possible in my field. Over the next four years, I will immerse myself in courses and hands-on projects to equip myself with the necessary skills and knowledge to secure our borders as well as tackle societal issues using mathematical models. The future of Armenia depends on each of us, our dedication, and our love for our ancestral homeland. I hope to do my part in the state-building with the support of fellow patriots who are ready to create a safer and better future for our nation.
To ensure a smooth journey toward our shared goal of a better future for Armenia, I wholeheartedly ask for your trust and invaluable support.
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.