Tahmina Ustoeva: From AUCA to USA. My exchange semester at Bard College.

September 26, 2022

Tahmina Ustoeva is a senior student of the International and Comparative Politics program who participated in the AUCA exchange program at Bard College, New York, USA. After completing her exchange semester, Tahmina shared her experience with us.

From her freshman year, she was passionate about getting an opportunity to study a semester abroad, and to experience different cultures and educational systems. “I wanted to gain a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me by expanding my intercultural ties and strengthening international relationships”, says Tahmina in her interview.

Studies abroad

Tahmina chose Bard Globalization and International Affairs (BGIA) because it gives students the opportunity to earn academic credits by offering hands-on experience through an internship. Tahmina is a student majoring in ICP at the AUCA. She admits that being in an environment that was devoted to Global & International Affairs and Politics was not only memorable but also a productive experience.

“I was excited to be submerged in a diverse community of students and faculty with unique perspectives and valuable knowledge. I enjoyed each and every class, as I had professors who are great experts in their fields” comments Tahmina Ustoeva.

Internship. Meeting the King and US President’s sister

Tahmina was lucky to work for “Off the Record”, an organization that conducts lectures regarding Foreign Policy issues. During her internship, Tahmina met many renowned ambassadors and political scientists from all over the globe. Among the most honorable people, Tahmina had a chance to meet were the younger sister of Joe Biden (The President of the US) Valerie Biden, Spanish king – Philip IV, diplomat and foreign policy analyst Martin Indyk, and many other prominent scholars that gave her incredible insights.

Impressions of NY

“Coming to New York and discovering new sides of the world was another part of my incredible journey. I can describe New York to be a city of freedom, efficiency, noise, and development. All of the world-known museums, parks, galleries, architecture, and restaurants set the perfect atmosphere for productive studying, working, and enjoying life”

AUCA in the heart of all those changes

“I can proudly say that AUCA has prepared me to be a critical thinker, civically engaged, and adaptive learner. I highly appreciate AUCA's role in providing immense exchange opportunities for students. It helps us to grow and make positive changes in life and society. I appreciate the chance that I was given and through which I discovered a totally different world in many facets. My exchange semester has definitely prepared me better for a head start on life after college.”

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