Explore the Program
Overview
The summer school in Armenia will be a two-week immersive experience, overseen by Arevik Ohanyan, who brings over 15 years of expertise in organizing student exchange programs and international initiatives. Arevik’s leadership ensures a well-structured and enriching environment. The program will be supported by professionals from OEC and Eurasia International University (EIU), who will manage the academic content, excursions, and overall coordination. Throughout the two weeks, students will engage in language learning, explore Armenia’s rich history and culture, and participate in academic and professional workshops. The program is designed to foster independence while providing an educational and memorable experience.
Program Highlights
- Connect with Peers: Build lifelong friendships with Armenian peers.
- Sports Competitions: Team up with new friends for exciting games.
- Museums & History: Walk through Armenia’s past and future.
- Cooking Classes: Master the art of lavash baking and Armenian cuisine.
- Shooting Range: Test your aim and learn new skills.
- Sightseeing & Exploration: Discover Armenia’s hidden gems.
- Family Dinners: Enjoy unforgettable evenings with local Armenian families.
- Village Life: Experience traditions and hospitality in rural Armenia.
Why choose ARMROOTS?
- More Than Sightseeing: Immerse yourself in Armenia’s rich history and vibrant present through hands-on experiences.
- Deep Connections: Meet and bond with Armenian peers from around the world.
- Cultural Interactions: Cook traditional dishes, dance to Armenian rhythms, and share stories that shape our collective identity.
- Adventure & Fun: Engage in sports competitions, hike breathtaking landscapes, and test your skills at a shooting range.
- Feel at Home: Enjoy heartwarming dinners with local families and experience village life firsthand.
Who can join?
- High school and college students (ages 15-22) from Armenia and the Armenian Diaspora who are eager to connect, learn, and explore together.
- This is your chance to strengthen your Armenian identity, make lifelong friends, and create unforgettable memories.
- 📅 Summer 2025, 2 weeks (13 nights): 7 nights in Yerevan, 3 nights in Tsakhadzor, 3 Nights in Dilijan
- Price for the entire program: $2500 (international travel costs excluded)
- A scholarship will be awarded to a low-income, high-merit (above 4.0 GPA) student, with the waiver covering only the program fee (excluding transportation). A motivation letter should be attached to the application.
Application deadline
The application deadline for those traveling with the group from LA, USA, to Armenia is April 30. Applicants who do not need to travel with the group may apply until May 30.
About ARMROOTS
ARMROOTS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering educational connections between the United States and Armenia. Our mission is to expand access to quality education, promote equity, and support underserved students and educators through innovative programs, scholarships, and global partnerships. By bridging educational and cultural gaps, we empower the next generation to embrace their heritage while preparing for a globally interconnected future. Through immersive learning experiences, mentorship, and strategic collaborations, ARMROOTS cultivates a deeper understanding of Armenian history, language, and identity, ensuring a lasting impact on students and their communities.
About the Co-Hosts
Ohanyan Educational Complex (OEC): Ohanyan Educational Complex (OEC) is a leading institution in Armenia that fosters academic excellence and cultural enrichment. With a commitment to student-centered learning, OEC provides a dynamic environment where students develop critical thinking, leadership, and problem-solving skills. The institution emphasizes a holistic approach to education, integrating innovative teaching methods with a strong sense of Armenian heritage.
🔗 Website: www.ohanyan.org
Eurasia International University (EIU): Eurasia International University (EIU) is a forward-thinking higher education institution with a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship, international collaboration, and academic excellence. EIU offers a diverse and inclusive learning platform where students can explore new opportunities, engage in research, and connect with global networks. Through interdisciplinary programs and strategic partnerships, EIU equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in an evolving world.
🔗 Website: www.eiu.am
ARMROOTS Summer Experience
Together, OEC and EIU bring their expertise, resources, and vision to the ARMROOTS Summer Experience, ensuring a transformative program that not only strengthens Armenian identity but also fosters global friendships and cross-cultural understanding. By combining educational rigor with cultural immersion, the program offers students a unique opportunity to engage with Armenia’s rich heritage, develop lifelong skills, and build meaningful international connections.
Key destinations:
Yerevan (7 days): Armenia’s vibrant capital, Yerevan blends history and modernity with pink tuff architecture, lively cafés, and cultural landmarks like Republic Square and the Cascade Complex.
Tsaghkadzor (3 days): A popular resort town known for its ski slopes, fresh mountain air, and Kecharis Monastery, Tsaghkadzor is perfect for both winter sports and summer retreats.
Dilijan (3 days): Often called “Armenia’s Switzerland,” Dilijan is a lush, green town with hiking trails, historic monasteries like Haghartsin and Goshavank, and a charming old town.
Lake Sevan: One of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world, Lake Sevan offers stunning landscapes, beaches, and the historic Sevanavank Monastery on its peninsula.
Geghard: A UNESCO-listed medieval monastery partially carved into the cliffs, Geghard is known for its intricate stonework and spiritual ambiance.
Garni: Home to the only surviving Greco-Roman temple in the region, Garni offers breathtaking views of the Azat River Gorge and ancient Armenian history.
Etchmiadzin: The spiritual center of Armenia and the seat of the Armenian Apostolic Church, Etchmiadzin is home to the country’s oldest cathedral, built in 301 AD.
Cafesjian Museum of Art: Located within the Cascade Complex, this modern art museum features an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures, glasswork, and international masterpieces.
Matenadaran: Armenia’s repository of ancient manuscripts, Matenadaran houses thousands of rare books and historical documents, showcasing the country’s rich literary heritage.
History Museum of Armenia: Situated in Republic Square, this museum presents a vast collection of artifacts spanning Armenia’s ancient and modern history.
Tsitsernakaberd: The Armenian Genocide Memorial and Museum, Tsitsernakaberd honors the victims of the 1915 genocide with a striking monument and an informative museum.
Can parents participate in the program?
No, parents may travel on the same plane as the group but will not be able to
participate in the program. The summer school aims to develop students’
independent living skills, and participation is limited to the students.
Are students allowed to leave with relatives?
If a student has arrived in Armenia with the organizers, with a parent’s affidavit and permission, they are required to remain under the program’s supervision and may not leave with relatives during the course of the program. The coordinator is responsible for their safety and well-being throughout the entire duration. However, students who join the program from Armenia are free to decide their level of participation and supervision. They may choose not to stay with the cohort in
Yerevan but must join the group in Dilijan and Tsaghkadzor. If a student decides not to stay at the hotel in Yerevan, a 10% discount will apply.
Can students join the program in Armenia instead of traveling with the group?
Yes, students can choose not to travel with the group and join the program directly in Armenia. Please inform us in advance if you wish to take this option.
Can students visit family members during the program?
No, if the student’s parents are not in Armenia and have not traveled with the group, the coordinator will bear sole responsibility for the student. There will be designated family time during which relatives can visit the students at the hotel, but students cannot leave the program to visit family members independently.
What is the language of the program?
As one of the key objectives of the program is to facilitate the learning of Armenian, most of the program will be conducted in Armenian. The staff is proficient in
English and will provide translations as needed. If a student does not know Armenian, an Armenian peer, or “buddy,” will be assigned to support the student throughout the entire program.
Is there medical assistance available during the program?
Yes, first aid kits will be available, and the staff is trained to handle basic medical needs. For more serious medical situations, we have a protocol to contact the nearest hospital or medical professional. Parents will be immediately notified in case of any emergency.
How do you ensure the safety of the students?
The students will be under constant supervision by experienced staff members. Safety is our top priority, and we adhere to strict safety protocols for all activities.
Additionally, a local coordinator will be assigned to each group to oversee daily operations and ensure everything runs smoothly.
What happens if my child becomes homesick?
We understand that homesickness can be a concern. Our staff is trained to support students emotionally and help them adjust to their new environment. If needed, we will maintain regular communication with parents to keep them updated on the student’s well-being.