From aspirations to achievements: Mane Tsaturyan’s journey through the College of Europe

“I dreamed of a profession that would offer me unique experiences, one that would leave room for creativity,” recalls Mane Tsaturyan, an alumna of the College of Europe in Natolin, reflecting on her high school years. With a passion for languages and history, she decided at the age of 16 to pursue a career in international relations. “I knew it would shape my future.”

Supported by her parents, Mane confidently enrolled at Yerevan State University. From her very first classes, she became captivated by the European Union. “The idea that this union could put an end to centuries of conflict in the region fascinated me,” she shares, emphasising the consensus among member states that underpins its creation.

However, the broad nature of her courses left Mane, a young Armenian, yearning for a more focused study of European affairs.

The spark of ambition

Mane’s journey to the College of Europe began in 2019 when, as a Young European Ambassador, she attended the 4th Eastern Partnership Youth Forum in Lithuania. It was there that she first learned about the College. Intrigued, Mane initially found the prospect of pursuing an advanced master’s degree distant. Nevertheless, the dream of specialising in European studies remained alive even after she completed her studies at the Diplomatic School of Armenia and earned a master’s degree from her alma mater.

The spark of ambition reawakened when she saw a friend’s post about being accepted into the College of Europe.

Upon discovering the EU4Youth scholarship covering tuition, accommodation, and meals, all set in a beautiful campus, Mane felt it was time to pursue her dream. “With the College’s reputation and the scholarship, I knew I was taking a significant step toward my goal. I had always envisioned myself working in an international organisation, particularly within EU institutions,” she recalls with excitement.

A world of learning

The thrill of studying abroad alongside peers from 30 different countries in a stunning nature reserve was an unparalleled experience for the young Armenian. The exciting challenge of dealing with a tough curriculum and new exams energised her. Although her education in Armenia provided a solid foundation, the academic environment at the College was distinctly different. “At the College of Europe, we were not just attending classes; we were sharing cultures and learning about topics that couldn’t be found in textbooks,” Mane admits, noting her immense personal and professional growth during her time there.

Effective communication, networking, and thriving in a diverse environment filled with various cultures and perspectives captivated her daily life. Surrounded by 130 fellow students from around the globe, she found a shared passion for learning about the EU and a determination to make an impact in their home countries. Exam periods, in particular, fostered the bond among classmates. “I fondly remember late nights in study rooms, common areas, or even our dorms, preparing for exams together, exchanging notes, and encouraging each other when things got tough,” Mane proudly states, emphasising that she remains in contact with her college friends.

Having classmates from diverse cultural backgrounds transformed her perceptions and dismantled stereotypes. Representing her own country and culture became an integral part of her education. “It felt like a mission. People who had never heard of Armenia met me, and through our interactions, they learned about my country. That was a significant responsibility,” she reflects. The College held national cuisine days and cultural events, allowing students to share and enrich one another’s experiences.

Meeting the icons

Another highlight of Mane’s experience was meeting high-level officials and guests at the College. “I had often cited Catherine Ashton in my bachelor’s papers, and now, here I was, sitting in the same room as her, asking questions directly. It was surreal,” she exclaims, also mentioning Roberta Metsola, a College alumna, and Herman Van Rompuy, the first President of the European Council. “Later, I interviewed Van Rompuy for my thesis. It was a groundbreaking experience for me,” she notes, recognising that what once seemed like an impossible dream became a reality, thanks to the College․

Mane’s achievements extended beyond meeting diplomats; she also demonstrated strong research skills. Her thesis, titled ‘EU Multilateral Diplomacy: Assessing EU Engagement in UN Security Council Reform’, guided by Mr. Thomas Mayr-Harting, received the UN Thesis Award for the best master’s thesis on ‘Europe, Multilateralism, and the UN’. “Receiving that award was a tremendous honour and a pivotal moment in my career,” she reflects, adding that the College opened doors to her current position at the EU Delegation to Armenia.

Making a difference 

Mane began working at the EU Delegation as soon as she returned to Armenia, having secured a job even before graduation. She is now dedicated to improving EU-Armenia relations. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to feel like I am making a real difference,” she emphasises, while keeping her aspiration of working at a European institution on an international level alive.

The College of Europe in Natolin transformed Mane’s life, and she believes it could do the same for anyone with ambition and a desire for education abroad. “The College offers this unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I encourage you to apply and chase your dreams,” concludes the young alumna.

The EU4Youth Phase III Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship programme, funded by the European Union and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, is implemented by the Central Project Management Agency (CPVA) in Eastern Partnership countries. These include Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine. The programme will run until the middle of 2025 and aims to provide technical assistance to governmental and non-governmental organisations to tackle youth unemployment and improve employability.

[popular_posts columns_xl=”4″ columns_l=”4″ columns_m=”3″]