The university years are a major phase for not only accumulating theoretical knowledge, but also discovering one’s own potential and maturing as a professional. This phase creates wide opportunities for personal and academic and pedagogical growth.

The bedrock and main guarantor of this path is the familiar university (Armenian State Pedagogical University (ASPU)), which opened the doors for educational and professional development from the very first years of its existence. The university environment not only conveyed the necessary professional framework, but also shaped confidence in one’s own forces, teaching one to be proactive, goal-oriented and not be afraid of big challenges.

International programs played a crucial role in shaping future history teachers and allowed them to observe history in the global context. With the support of the University, participation in prestigious international schools of historians became the driving force for academic interests and future advancement.

The valuable and practical experience from the “International School of Historians” Program (Yekaterinburg (2022), Arkhangelsk (2023), Vladikavkaz (2024)) and several other international programs, the discussions with colleagues from different countries and work with materials helped discover the art of history teaching from a new perspective.

Today, the framework of the knowledge received from the University and the experience gained through international programs serve for the main goal — quality history teaching. Modern-day history teachers must not limit themselves to communicating facts through textbooks; they must learn to analyze, combine and critically approach the events of the past.

The active methods, interactive technologies mastered in international schools and the tricks in comprehensive analysis of historical events are successfully introduced in classes, making the lessons more interesting and lively for pupils.

My past career and participation in international programs proves once again that every opportunity provided by familiar University can play a crucial role in the establishment of a young professional. It helps step out of the boundaries of notions at the local level and enter schools as prepared, innovative and creative teachers of history who have international experience.