One-hundred-thirty fellows from 12 countries were selected for the 2009-2010 Global UGRAD Program in Eurasia and Central Asia. The 2009-2010 fellows were invited to submit an optional biography for publication. The submissions appear below.
| • Armenia | • Moldova |
| • Azerbaijan | • Russia |
| • Belarus | • Tajikistan |
| • Georgia | • Turkmenistan |
| • Kazakhstan | • Ukraine |
| • Kyrgyzstan | • Uzbekistan |
ARMENIA
Edmond Ghulyan
Armenia
Fox Valley Technical College
Business
Edmond is originally from Vanadzor, Armenia, and is pursuing his bachelor’s degree at Yerevan State University in the capital. Edmond enjoys participating in different educational programs and has won several awards in olympiads, or academic competitions, in his home country. Some of his other hobbies are listening to music, reading books, watching TV, and traveling. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, Edmond hopes to learn more about American literature and looks forward to attending American sporting events and seeing how Christmas is celebrated in the U.S.
Seda Grigoryan
Armenia
Florida State University
Film Studies
Seda is enrolled at the Yerevan State Institute of Theater and Cinematography, where she is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in the direction of documentary films. Originally from Yerevan, she is a member of the Sksela and Save Tegheut Forest youth movements and has also volunteered for the Golden Apricot Film Festival in Armenia. Seda hopes to gain professional experience during her Global UGRAD fellowship and learn about American cinematography, video art, and literature. As a film student, she looks forward to attending film festivals and concerts, and her dream is to visit Hollywood film studios and the Academy Awards during her time in the U.S.
Anna Hamazaspyan
Armenia
University of Idaho
Computer Science
Anna is originally from Yerevan, Armenia, where she is studying for her bachelor’s degree in IT business management at the European Regional Educational Academy. Her hobbies include reading, cooking, and swimming, and she has volunteered at the Institute of Organic Chemistry in Armenia. Anna hopes to learn more about American literature and computer programming languages during her Global UGRAD fellowship. She looks forward to spending Christmas with an American family, seeing what daily life is like in America, and spending time outdoors at American parks.
Naira Hovsepyan
Armenia
University of Arkansas
Art
Naira is originally from Gyumri, Armenia, where she is enrolled in bachelor’s degree studies at the Academy of Fine Arts. She is a member of the artists’ group 15/3 and enjoys printmaking, sculpting, drawing, graphic design, and photography. Outside of art, some of Naira’s other hobbies are swimming and playing the guitar. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Naira is excited to learn more about American art and hopes to take part in art exhibitions and events and music festivals while she is in the United States.
Susan Martirosyan
Armenia
Johnson County Community College
U.S. Studies
Susan is from the village of Getk in Armenia and is studying to become an English teacher at Gyumri State Pedagogical Institute. In addition to serving on her university’s student council, Susan has been involved in a variety of linguistic activities, volunteering to teach Russian through a local NGO and translating and interpreting at an art festival and an inter-regional conference in Gyumri. Susan looks forward to taking classes in U.S. literature and U.S. history and is excited to see what Christmas celebrations are like in America.
Valya Martirosyan
Armenia
University of Mississippi
International Relations
Valya is from Gyumri, Armenia, where she is pursuing her bachelor’s degree at Gyumri State Pedagogical Institute. Her hobbies include reading and volunteering. Valya is a member of her university’s student council and also holds a regular English club at the Gyumri American Corner. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, she hopes to learn more about American culture and diversity as well as U.S. foreign policy. Valya looks forward to celebrating Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas in the U.S. as well as attending Mississippi football games.
Emma Ohanyan
Armenia
Minnesota State University - Mankato
Political Science
Emma is from Yerevan, Armenia, where she is a student in the foreign languages and regional studies department at Russian-Armenian Slavonic University. She is active with campus clubs and organizations, serving as a student council member, department secretary, group monitor, and captain of the Smart and Joyful Club. Emma plans to learn as much as possible about American culture, literature and politics and partiicpate in as many cultural events as possible during her Global UGRAD fellowship. She particularly looks forward to participating in American holiday celebrations.
Zaruhi Sanayan
Armenia
Southeast Community College
Journalism and Mass Communications
Zaruhi is from Yerevan, Armenia and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in journalism at Yerevan State Linguistic University named after V. Brusov. She is actively involved in campus events and runs an English club at her university. Her hobbies include painting, dancing, swimming, reading, watching films, and volunteering. Zaruhi hopes to learn more about American culture, traditions, and lifestyles during her Global UGRAD fellowship, as well as developing knowledge in her chosen field of journalism. She is interested in researching American diversity and equal rights and aims to participate in all the cultural experiences available to her during her fellowship.
Norayr Toromanyan
Armenia
Upper Iowa University
Business
Originally from Yerevan, Armenia, Norayr studies at the Armenian State University of Economics, where he is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in finance and credit. Norayr interned with Anelik Bank in Armenia and has volunteered at an orphanage. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, he is interested in studying investments and looks forward to celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas in the United States.
Marianna Vardanyan
Armenia
Lewis & Clark College
International Relations
Marianna is from Yerevan, Armenia, where she is studying for her bachelor’s degree in international relations at the European Regional Educational Academy. She is coordinator of her university art club and a member of the NDJ Armenian youth board and the NGO Solidarity of Students. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Marianna hopes to take classes in U.S government, diplomacy studies, and photography. She hopes to meet contemporary American writers, go to the theater, and visit the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC during her stay in the United States.
AZERBAIJAN
Farana Abdullayeva
Azerbaijan
Ball State University
International Relations
Farana is originally from Lankaran, Azerbaijan. She is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature at Lankaran State University, where she also serves as class representative to the department. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Farana looks forward to taking courses in International Relations and participating in holiday celebrations such as Halloween and Thanskgiving.
Jamila Aliyeva
Azerbaijan
Graceland University
International Relations
Originally from Lankaran, Azerbaijan, Jamila is pursing a bacehlor’s degree in English language and literature at Lankaran State University. She participates in several campus conversations, including the Debate Club, Conversation Club, Art Club, and Book Club. Jamila also teaches English to others in her home community as a volunteer. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Jamila looks forward to taking courses in International Relations and learning more about American culture. She hopes to participate in American sports and attend concerts while she is studying in the United States.
Muhammad Bakhushov
Azerbaijan
Troy University
Education
Muhammad is from Baku, Azerbaijan, where he is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature and pedadogy at Qafqaz University. He is an active member of his campus drama club and helps organize university activities and concerts in which he acts and sings. Muhammad also runs a conversation club. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, Muhammad hopes to learn more about teaching methodology and research American culture, history, and traditions. He looks forward to performing in plays and concerts in the United States and hopes to participate in a cultural organization where students from different backgrounds can share their cultures and cuisines with other club members.
Elvin Garayev
Azerbaijan
Berea College
Education
Elvin is from Mingachevir, Azerbaijan, where he is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in English education at Mingachevir Teachers’ University. Elvin has worked hard to improve his English outside of the classroom and most recently worked for the U.S. Peace Corps in Azerbaijan as a Language and Cultural Facilitator. He also created a monthly English language student newspaper at his university and competed in the 2008 Caucasus English Writing Olympics, taking first place regionally and third place at the national level. Elvin hopes to focus his studies at Berea College on learning how to teach a foreign language. Since Elvin has played on a softball team in Azerbaijan, he is excited to attend a real baseball game in the U.S. and play intramural softball at his university.
Davud Gurban-zada
Azerbaijan
Augustana College
Economics
Davud is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in economics at the Ganja Technological University in his hometown of Ganja, Azerbaijan. He participates in various activities organized by American Peace Corps Volunteers in his community, such as book clubs, conversation clubs, classes on democracy, and theater performances. Davud also coaches taekwondo and volunteers his time as a guide when tourists visit Ganja. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, David hopes to learn about U.S. history and the U.S. Constitution and looks forward to playing American sports, visiting museums, attending theatrical performances, and seeing how Americans celebrate Halloween and Thanksgiving.
Anar Heydarov
Azerbaijan
Humboldt State University
Environmental Management
Anar is originally from Baku, Azerbaijan and is majoring in management in the oil and gas industry at the Azerbaijan State Oil Academy. Anar participates in the debate club and volunteers for several university organizations and a mentoring program for freshmen. He is very interested in learning about American history and plans to take at least one course on the topic during his Global UGRAD fellowship, as well as taking classes to better understand American mangement and operations styles. Anar is interested in participating in sports events and concerts during his stay in the United States and is especially looking forward to celebrating Halloween.
Ilaha Ismayilova
Azerbaijan
University of North Dakota
Law
Ilaha is from Baku, Azerbaijan and is majoring in law at the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. She has been involved in community service at the Academy and has also volunteered at local law organizations. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Ilaha hopes to take courses on public administration, constitutional law, politics, criminal justice, the American legal system, and American studies. She looks forward to celebrating Halloween and Thanskgiving during her time in the United States.
Samir Khalilov
Azerbaijan
Lincoln University of Missouri
Accounting
Samir is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in international economic relations at the Azerbaijan State Economic University in his hometown of Baku, Azerbaijan. When he was in high school, Samir studied in the U.S. on the Future Leaders Exchange Program (FLEX) and has worked as a FLEX Alumni Coordinator in Azerbaijan. He has also been involved with several student organizations, including Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) and AIESEC. As an avid follower of financial and stock news, Samir hopes to intern with a financial company in the U.S. during his Global UGRAD fellowship and do research on the causes of the economic downturn. He hopes to visit New York City to observe trading at the New York Stock Exchange and watch the ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve.
Khuraman Mammadova
Azerbaijan
Dickinson State University
International Relations
Khuraman is from Baku, Azerbaijan, where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in international economic relations at the Azerbaijan State Economic University. In addition to participating in campus and youth organizations and NGO activities, Khuraman has also worked as department assistant at her university. Some of her hobbies are playing the piano, reading, going to the movies and the theater, and performing the national dances of Azerbaijan. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Khuraman hopes to learn about American culture, values, and government. She looks forward to celebrating Halloween and Christmas as well as visiting museums and attending concerts and performances.
Faig Rzayev
Azerbaijan
Tennessee Tech University
U.S. Studies
Faig is from Baku, Azerbaijan, where he studies at Western University. He is a member of several student and youth organizations, including the Caucasus Forum for Solidarity and Cooperation, the Model Caucasus Parliament, and AIESEC. Faig looks forward to taking classes in U.S. Studies during his Global UGRAD fellowship. One of the cultural events he is interested in participating in is the observation of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday on January 15.
BELARUS
No biographies submitted.
GEORGIA
Lela Akiashvili
Georgia
University of Wisconsin - Superior
Law
Lela is majoring in international law at Tbilisi State University in her home city of Tbilisi, Georgia. In her home country, she has been an active volunteer with refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) and is a member of Pirvelebi, a youth organization, and Consent, an IDP women’s association. Lela founded an organization called Students for Human Rights and has conducted training workshops on human rights topics, gender, and social issues. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Lela hopes to take courses in government, alternative dispute resolution, international law, and human rights. She looks forward to celebrating Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas and attending music and dance concerts during her time in the U.S.
Armani Gambaryan
Georgia
Southeast Community College
International Relations
Armani is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Diplomacy at the American University for Humanities in Tbilisi, Georgia, where he serves as Head Deputy of the Tbilisi Youth Assembly. Armani is a junior member of the Union of Armenian Writers of Georgia and wrote a project entitled “Intergration of Ethnic Minorities into Georgian Society.” He has received awards at the Annual Art Festival of Armenian Schools of Tbilisi and won first prize at the 12th International Olympiad of Russian Language Schools, held in Moscow. Armani participates in the drama studio of the Tbilisi State Armenian Drama Theater of Georgia and hopes to continue acting in plays while studying in the U.S. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, Armani looks forward to taking courses on politics and American government.
Saba Gvetadze
Georgia
Dickinson State University
Political Science
Saba is pursuing a bachelor’s degree from the School of Politics and International Relations at the University of Georgia in her home city of Tbilisi, Georgia. She is actively involved in campus activities, serving as vice-president of Helping Hands, a student charity club, and participating in Model OSCE and Model UN simulations. Saba is also a member of the tutoring club at her home university. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, she hopes to take courses on U.S. geopolitical ambitions and democracy. Saba looks forward to celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas during her stay in the United States.
Tamar Kvashilava
Georgia
University of Wisconsin - Richland
Law
Tamar is originally from Tbilisi, Georgia, where she is pursuing her undergraduate degree in law at Ilia Chavchavadze State University. Her hobbies include acting, swimming, reading, and painting, and she is a member of the Children’s Youth Assembly, volunteering on the committee of culture and integration. While in the United States, Tamar hopes to make many new friends from different cultural backgrounds and looks forward to living with a host family to experience American culture and traditions. She is interested in taking courses on the U.S. Constitution and celebrating American holidays during her Global UGRAD fellowship.
Giorgi Narmania
Georgia
University of North Dakota
Law
Giorgi is pursuing his bachelor’s degree in law from Tbilisi State University in his home city of Tbisili, Georgia, where he was an elected member of the student government. Giorgi has also worked for the Unit of International Relations at the Chief Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, Giorgi hopes to take courses in political science and public speaking. He also looks forward to participating in cultural events, in particular celebrating Halloween, in the United States.
Ana Ramazashvili
Georgia
California State University - Dominguez Hills
Business
Ana is originally from Tbilisi, Goergia, where she is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in finance from Caucasus University.
KAZAKHSTAN
Nargiza Buranova
Kazakhstan
Minnesota State University - Mankato
Education
Nargiza is originally from Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, and is pursuing her bachelor’s degree at Eurasian National University, where she is majoring in English and French. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Nargiza looks forward to taking courses in education and celebrating Christmas in the United States.
Gulbanu Ibragimkyzy
Kazakhstan
Nebraska Wesleyan University
U.S. Studies
Originally from Kyzylorda, Kazakhstan, Gulbanu is majoring in English at Korkyt Ata Kyzylorda State University. She has actively volunteered as a translator and interpreter for the local HIV Center in her city. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Gulbanu hopes to learn as much as possible about Americans, including American lifestyles, history, literature, music, and art. In particular, she would like to learn how the United States reached democracy. Gulbanu looks forward to attending American sporting events and celebrating Thanksgiving during her time in the United States.
Ainur Khassen
Kazakhstan
University of Mississippi
Business
Ainur is majoring in finance at the Kazakhstan Institute of Management, Economics, and Strategic Research in her home city of Almaty, Kazakhstan. At her home university, she is a member of BrainArt, a student organization, and enjoys ballroom dancing, creative writing, and debate. Ainur has previously been an English tutor and an office assistant in a language center. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, she hopes to strengthen her skills in the field of finance, learn about American culture, and celebrate Halloween and Christmas in the United States.
Irina Mikhailovskaya
Kazakhstan
California State University - Bakersfield
Economics
Originally from Almaty, Kazakhstan, Irina studies finance at the University of International Business in her home country. Her hobbies include playing lawn tennis, swimming, and visiting the mountains. Irina is a member of AIESEC, an international student organization, and previously worked as a sales manager in a store. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, she plans to learn more about American history. Irina also looks forward to celebrating Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas and learning to cook American meals. She also hopes to have the chance to observe a trial during her time in the United States.
Valentina Puchkova
Kazakhstan
Bethany College
Education
Valentina is a student at East Kazakhstan State University, where she is majoring in English and Spanish. Her hobbies include basketball, tennis, soccer, modern dance, and the student comedy club. In addition to her studies, Valentina has held jobs as a shop assistant and waitress in the past. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, she hopes to learn more about sports in the United States and looks forward to celebrating Halloween.
Yerkebulan Sagiyev
Kazakhstan
California State University - Dominguez Hills
Business
Originally from Almaty, Kazakhstan, Yerkebulan is a finance major at Kazakh-British Technical University, where he worked with classmates to organize Management and Economy Simulation Exercise (MESE) activities for students. Yerkebulan also organized an academic competition for students from five local universities in Kazakhstan and served as head of the career department on his university’s council of finance and economic students. He has interned with the Business Media Group and HSBC Bank in Kazakhstan. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, Yerkebulan hope to take courses on foreign and international policy and looks forward to celebrating Halloween and Thanksgiving in the United States and watching American sports.
KYRGYZSTAN
Sabina Akhmetzhanova
Kyrgyzstan
Iowa Western Community College
Education
Originally from Karakol, Kyrgyzstan, Sabina is studying to become an English teacher at Issyk-Kul State University. Sabina is actively involved in community service and volunteers conducting classes at local schools for the Street Law project, which educates teens about their rights and how to protect them. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Sabina looks forward to learning about education, celebrating Christmas and Valentine’s Day in the U.S., and attending American games and concerts.
Nodir Ataev
Kyrgyzstan
Carroll College
Economics
Nodir is from Isfana, Kyrgyzstan, and studies at International Ataturk-Alatoo University in Bishkek, where he is majoring in management. Nodir has been president of his university academic group since his freshman year and also attended music school. One of his hobbies is playing the rubob, a traditional stringed instrument. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, Nodir would like to study modern economic theories and see how Christmas is celebrated in the United States.
Chynara Baichaeva
Kyrgyzstan
University of Wisconsin - Richland
Law
Chynara is from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan and is a student at the American University of Central Asia. In addition her studies, she also worked as a Program Assistant at the International Republican Institute in Bishkek. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Chynara is interested in learning more about American society and how it differs from society in Kyrgyzstan. While studying in the United States, she hopes to participate in the celebrations of all, or at least most, American holidays.
Zhyldyz Biigeldieva
Kyrgyzstan
Berea College
Education
Originally from Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan, Zhyldyz is majoring in English language and literature at International Ataturk-Alatoo University in Bishkek. Her hobbies include reading, swimming, running, cooking, and attending seminars and debates. Zhyldyz takes an active role in organizing contests, debates, and festivals at her university, volunteers at a local orphanage and a home for the elderly, and tutors children in English. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Zhyldyz is interested in learning more about American literature, as she plans to pursue a master’s degree in this subject in the future. While studying in the U.S., Zhyldyz also hopes to visit New York City and watch a Broadway show.
Gulgaaky Israilova
Kyrgyzstan
College of Southern Idaho
Law
Gulgaaky is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in international and business law at the American University of Central Asia in her hometown of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. In addition to her hobbies of swimming and reading, Gulgaaky has participated in several campus organizations, including her university’s debate club, volunteer club, and Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) club. Gulgaaky has also worked as a crediting expert for a private micro-crediting company and served as an assistant in the Ministry of Finance and the Agency of Community Investment Development. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Gulgaaky wants to learn more about international law and the U.S. Constitution and also looks forward to seeing how Americans celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day.
Kanykei Kadyrberdieva
Kyrgyzstan
Riverland Community College
Business
Originally from Osh in southern Kyrgyzstan, Kanykei studies at the American University of Central Asia in Bishkek, where she is pursing a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Outside the classroom, Kanykei volunteers at her university’s career center. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Kanykei is interested in studying American business management and looks forward to attending American concerts and Halloween and Christmas celebrations.
Dastan Kasmamytov
Kyrgyzstan
Pierce College
Computer Science
Dastan is majoring in software engineering at the American University of Central Asia in his hometown of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Some of his hobbies include swimming, origami, web design, and video, and he has volunteered with Habitat for Humanity – Kyrgyzstan and his university chapter of Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE). Dastan hopes to learn about many facets of American life during his Global UGRAD fellowship, including the U.S. educational system, arts and music, U.S. history, and cultural diversity. He is also interested in learning more about information technologies and nano and bio-technologies. While studying in the United States, Dastan looks forward to visiting museums and national parks, celebrating American holidays, and participating in music festivals.
Bermet Mambetshaeva
Kyrgyzstan
University of Wisconsin - La Crosse
Journalism and Mass Communications
Bermet is originally from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, where she is a student in the journalism and public relations program at Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University. Some of Bermet’s many hobbies include blogging, teaching English, learning foreign languages, sound engineering, making handicrafts, and volunteering for charity. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Bermet is interested in taking courses in Spanish and the development of American cinema. She looks forward to participating in cultural festivals and acting in plays during her time in the United States.
MOLDOVA
Mihail Cristiuc
Moldova
Pierce College
Computer Science
Originally from Drochia, Moldova, Mihail studies cybernetics, statistics, and economical informatics at the Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova. At his home university, he worked as a network technician and volunteered on an economic development project sponsored by USAID. In 2007, Mihail led his team, Dynamite, to 6th place in Europe at the Management Economic Simulation Exercise competition. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, he looks forward to taking courses on American literature and the U.S. economy, as well as learning more about U.S. cultural traditions, such as American sports and Halloween.
Alexandru Lebedev
Moldova
Southeast Community College
Journalism and Mass Communication
Alexandru is majoring in journalism and mass communication at Moldova State University in his home city of Chisinau. At his home university, he serves as head of his class and a department council member and as president of the virtual parliament. Alexandru also volunteers at the La Strada Center, the online portal Civic.md, and is an English teacher and a member of the United Colors of Friendship English club. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, Alexandru hopes to attend a tennis match and catch a glimpse of a famous American celebrity.
Tatiana Morari
Moldova
University of Wisconsin - Richland
Economics
Originally from Chisinau, Moldova, Tatiana is a marketing major at Moldova State University. In high school, she was president of her school senate, and she has also volunteered with abandoned children. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Tatiana hopes to take courses which will improve her communication and leadership skills, including Applied Journalism and Introduction to Public Speaking. She looks forward to participating in many American cultural events during her time in the United States, especially celebrating Thanksgiving.
Victor Popovici
Moldova
University of Wisconsin - Richland
International Relations
Originally from Durlesti, Moldova, Victor is an international relations major at the Free International University of Moldova. He previously volunteered at the Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims, an NGO in Chisinau, where he helped edit a book and did translation, photo and video work. When he was in high school, Victor organized several events on campus, including Balul Bobocilor, a competition and party to welcome incoming freshmen. Victor also enjoys cycling, swimming, hiking, and traveling. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, he looks forward to studying American government and politics and contemporary history and celebrating Christmas in the United States.
Alexandrina Postica
Moldova
Pierce College
Economics
Alexandrina is majoring in international economic relations at the Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova in her home city of Chisinau. She is a member of the Association of Economists and has worked part-time as an accountant. During her studies in the United States, Alexandra looks forward to taking courses on public speaking and American history. She hopes to participate in American family traditions and attend American football games and concerts during her Global UGRAD fellowship.
Eugenia Sisco Moldova
North Central College
Computer Science
Eugenia is a computer science major at the University of Transnistria in her home city of Tiraspol, Moldova. She is actively involved in campus activities at her home university, serving as president of her academic group and as a member of the university monitors league. Eugenia also plays volleyball for her university team and was an assistant to the technical secretary of her university’s admissions commission. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Eugenia hopes to take a course on U.S. history and looks forward to participating in cultural events, including Halloween and Thanksgiving, and spending time with a “friendship family” arranged through her college. She plans to attend baseball and basketball games and visit history and art museums and the theater while studying in the U.S.
Victoria Vlad
Moldova
Riverland Community College
Economics
Originally from Ghindesti-Floresti, Moldova, Victoria is an international economic relations major at the Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova, where she is the vice president of her academic group. Some of Victoria’s hobbies include reading, sports, and travel, and she has volunteered with the National Association of European Trainers in Moldova (ANTEM). During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Victoria hopes to write articles about America and study pop culture. She looks forward to participating in as many cultural and social events as possible during her studies in the U.S.
Corina Voda
Moldova
Northcentral Technical College
Law
Corina is pursuing her undergraduate degree in law at Moldova State University. In Moldova, she volunteered with the Helsinki Committee for Human Rights. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Corina intends to learn more about U.S. culture and democracy. Outside of the classroom, she hopes to visit the East coast and socialize as much as she can.
RUSSIA
Valeriy Arutyunyants
Russia
University of Nebraska - Kearney
International Relations
Originally from Essentuki, Russia, Valeriy is majoring in international relations and minoring in English and Arabic at Pyatigorsk State Linguistic University. At his home campus, Valeriy chairs a discussion club within the international relations department, participates on the department volleyball team, and is a member of the student volunteer club. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, Valeriy hopes to learn more about the U.S.-Russia relationship, as well as the United States’ relations with China and Europe. He is also interested in non-proliferation issues, the Obama administration’s foreign policy strategy in the Caucasus and Middle East regions. While studying in Nebraska, Valeriy looks forward to watching American football and celebrating Halloween and Thanksgiving.
Natalia Bukolova
Russia
Otero Junior College
Accounting
Natalia is majoring in international accounting at the Khabarovsk State Academy of Economics and Law (KSAEL) in her hometown of Khabarovsk, Russia. She has been active in her community through several activities organized by the KSAEL Debate Club, including participating in Model United Nations debates in English, performing community service in orphanages, and giving lectures on tolerance in local schools. Natalia looks forward to taking courses in accounting and celebrating Christmas in America during her Global UGRAD fellowship.
Ekaterina Manukhina
Russia
University of Wyoming
International Relations
Ekaterina is a student in the international relations department at Ryazan State University after S.A. Esenin in her hometown of Ryazan, Russia. Ekaterina participates in international conferences and camps and volunteers with the Love Russia charity, helping children with physical and mental disabilities. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Ekaterina is interested in learning more about Russian-American bilateral relations, diaspora issues, and tolerance. She looks forward to participating in cultural events such as Halloween and Thanksgiving celebrations and historiccal and national festivals during her stay in the United States.
Ekaterina Pshenitsyna
Russia
Bennett College
Education
Ekaterina is studying to be a linguist and interpreter at Krasnoyarsk State Pedagogical University in her home city of Krasnoyarsk, Russia. She has helped arrange academic and cultural events at her university, including volunteering at the press center of the scientific conferences “Step Towards the Future” and “Youth and Science.” Ekaterina is also a member of the Spanish discussion club. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Ekaterina plans to take courses on teaching English, history, and American linguistics. She also looks forward to celebrating Christmas and attending rock concerts, sports events, and dramatic performances while studying in the United States.
Anna Samoylenko
Russia
University of Idaho
Computer Science
Anna is from Arsenyev, Russia, and studies applied linguistics in informational technologies at Far Eastern National University in Vladivostok. She has been a member of the Model United Nations (MUN) of the Russian Far East since 2007, serving as president of her university MUN club and coordinating master classes for high school students. Anna also practices yoga. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, she hopes to learn more about country, blues, and other types of American music, celebrate Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, and visit the Massachussets Institute of Technology.
Olesya Sidorova
Russia
Roanoke College
Economics
Olesya is majoring in international economics at Tomsk State University in her home city of Tomsk, Russia. She is highly trained in rhythmic gymnastics and also serves as the head of her university volunteer team, which won in a competition against other student volunteer teams. Olesya has also worked as a camp counselor at the Black Sea and completed an internship at a metallurgical factory in Kazakhstan. During her U.S. academic program, Olesya is particularly interested in studying the United States as an example of how to make an economic system more structured, mobile, and flexible. Olesya also looks forward to being involved in student organizations during her Global UGRAD fellowship and to having an opportunity to present her own cultural heritage.
TAJIKISTAN
Munira Amidkhonova
Tajikistan
Wartburg College
Business
Originally from Khorog, Tajikistan, Munira is a management major at Khorog State University, where she is a member of the economics club. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, she hopes to learn more about U.S. culture and education and looks forward to celebrating Thanksgiving in the United States.
Rustam Avezov
Tajikistan
Graceland University
Business
Rustam is majoring in finance and credit at the Khujand branch of the Technological University of Tajikistan. He volunteered as a team leader at the sixth annual English Summer Immersion Leadership camp, where he also taught a session on starting your own business. Rustam has also served as a leader for Our Kids, a community initiative group. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, Rustam looks forward to learning more about business administration and hopes to greet 2010 in New York City.
Anora Rahim
Tajikistan
Southeast Community College
International Relations
Originally from Khujand, Tajikistan, Anora is majoring in international relations at the Tajik State University of Law, Business, and Politics. She is a member of the student association at her university and has volunteered with the elderly and participated in monthly clean-ups of the university grounds. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Anora is interested in learning more about community service. She hopes to attend rock and R&B concerts, watch American football and volleyball, and celebrate American holidays during her stay in the United States.
Rukhshona Shokhumorova
Tajikistan
University of North Dakota
Anthropology
Rukhshona is originally from Dushanbe, Tajikistan, where she is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in anthropology at Russian-Tajik Slavonic University. Rukhshona has volunteered as an English teacher for the Agha Khan Development Network in Dushanbe and also led a research project on patchwork traditions in Tajikistan. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Rukhshona hopes to take courses in U.S. government and American culture and looks forward to attending American football games.
Madinakhon Sidiqova
Tajikistan
Troy University
Education
Madina is from Khujand, Tajikistan, where she is majoring in foreign languages at Khujand State University. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, she looks forward to learning more about American history and celebrating Thanksgiving in the United States.
TURKMENISTAN
No bios were submitted for Turkmenistan.
UKRAINE
Elina Beketova
Ukraine
University of Mississippi
Journalism and Mass Communications
Originally from Feodosia, Ukraine, Elina is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in the journalism department at Kharkiv National University. In addition to her academic studies, Elina is a journalist providing content for a local TV channel and has hosted a television advertising program. She has also been active in events to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS. Some of Elina’s other hobbies include writing, reading modern Ukrainian writers, and photography. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Elina hopes to take courses on television reporting and broadcast newswriting and reporting. She also looks forward to celebrating American holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Groundhog Day, St. Patrick’s Day, and Earth Day.
Nataliia Derkach
Ukraine
California State University - Dominguez Hills
Psychology
Nataliia is majoring in education at Ternopil National Pedagogical University in her home city of Ternopil, Ukraine. In her free time she plays basketball and tennis and works as a tutor helping children improve their language skills. For the last three years, Nataliia has also been volunteering and has visited local orphanages. During her studies in the United States, she hopes to learn more about psychology, which she can apply back in Ukraine in her volunteer work with children. As a Global UGRAD fellow, Natallia plans to participate in as many cultural events as she can and particularly looks forward to celebrating Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas in the U.S.
Kateryna Forynna
Ukraine
West Liberty State College
Journalism and Mass Communications
Kateryna is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in English and German at the Institute of Foreign Languages of Bohdan Khmelnytsky National University in her home city of Cherkasy, Ukraine. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Kateryna plans to take courses in journalism and mass communications. She looks forward to watching golf and tennis and celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas in the United States.
Kateryna Galiuk
Ukraine
University of Mississippi
International Relations
Originally from Kamyanets-Podilskyi, Ukraine, Kateryna is majoring in international economic relations at Khmelnytsky National University. Among other hobbies, she has volunteered for the NGO Podillya Pershyi. During her Global UGRAD fellowship in the United States, Kateryna hopes to take courses in international business and would like to participate in theatrical performances.
Oleksandr Gonchar
Ukraine
Tennessee Tech University
Business
Oleksandr is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in the management of foreign economic activities at Kherson National Technical University in his home town of Kherson, Ukraine. He has been actively involved in several campus organizations, writing articles for the student newspaper and creating programs for the student television station, and enjoys playing tennis. During his Global UGRAD fellowship, Oleksandr hopes to take courses in business strategy, international management, and human resource management. He looks forward to celebrating American holidays during his time in the United States, watching baseball games and tennis matches, and attending a jazz concert.
Inna Kostarieva
Ukraine
Troy University
U.S. Studies
Inna is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in English with minors in German and world literature at the Horlivka State Pedagogical Institute of Foreign Languages in her home city of Horlivka, Ukraine. She is active in several organizations at her home university, playing on her department’s basketball team and serving as PR Manager of the Discussion Club and a member of the Cambridge Club. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Inna hopes to learn more about American culture, literature and history and looks forward to watching American sports such as football, golf, and basketball.
Iryna Kushnir
Ukraine
Ball State University
Psychology
Originally from Ternopil, Ukraine, Iryna is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in education in the foreign languages department at Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatyuk National Pedgagocial University. Some of her hobbies are drawing, taking photos, dancing, cooking, and growing cacti. Iryna has also volunteered with orphans in the past. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Iryna hopes to study age-specific and gender psychology, which she can apply in her future career as a teacher. She also looks forward to sharing Ukraine with Americans and learning more about American culture, including visiting American churches, celebrating holidays, attending concerts, and volunteering.
Nataliia Otrishchenko
Ukraine
Berea College
Sociology
Originally from Zolochiv, Ukraine, Nataliia is majoring in sociology at Ivan Franko Lviv National University, where she also heads the Student Election Committee and the Team in Intellectual Movement. Nataliia’s hobbies include intellectual games, journalism, tourism and travel, and she has previously participated in summer study programs in Poland and Slovenia. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Nataliia hopes to learn more about American culture, American sociology and political sociology, and gain experience in cross-cultural communication. She looks forward to celebrating Halloween in the United States.
Oleksandr Trotsenko
Ukraine
Lamar Community College
Computer Science
Oleksandr is originally from Nikolaev, Ukraine, where he is majoring in computer science at the National Shipbuilding University. One of his hobbies is playing volleyball. During his Global UGRAD fellowship in the United States, Oleksandr looks forward to attending American football games and celebrating Thanksgiving.
Anna Tsapok
Ukraine
University of Idaho
Computer Science
Originally from Kyiv, Ukraine, Anna is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in computer science at the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy. Her hobbies include rafting, hiking, and astronomy and she also works on a website that provides students with information about exchange programs and grant opportunities. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Anna hopes to learn about American culture and Information Technology.
UZBEKISTAN
Nigina Boltaeva
Uzbekistan
California State University - Bakersfield
Education
Nigina is studying for her bachelor’s degree in English philology at Bukhara State University in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. She enjoys playing the piano and participates in activities at the Bukhara English Youth Center. During her time as a Global UGRAD fellow, Nigina is interested in studying American literature and childhood education and hopes to participate in the university drama club, celebrate Halloween, and attend American concerts.
Indira Davletmuratova
Uzbekistan
Maryville College
Economics
Indira is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in international economic relations at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy in her hometown of Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Indira is head of the student Shakespeare Club and actively volunteers at department events. During her time as a Global UGRAD fellow, she looks forward to learning more about US cities and American Independence Day.
Nilufar Kabulova
Uzbekistan
Chadron State College
International Relations
Nilufar is originally from Urgench, Uzbekistan, and studies international relations at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy in Tashkent. She is active on her campus and in her community, performing as a singer and dancer at various university events and volunteering for community service activities organized by the US Embassy. Nilufar also uses her language skills as a private English tutor for children and attends simultaneous translation courses at her university. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Nilufar looks forward to studying foreign policy and participating in cross country and softball.
Ikboljon Kasimov
Uzbekistan
College of Southern Idaho
Engineering
Ikboljon is pursing a bachelor’s degree in engineering at the Andijan Economy and Engineering Institute. He is the leader of the Eagles debate team in his home city of Andijan and also volunteers at Mehrimiz Sizga, an NGO that supports women’s rights. Ikboljon also enjoys playing soccer, learning languages and dancing. He is interested in learning more about American culture, including the American automobile industry, and looks forward to participating in American sports, holidays, and other cultural events during his Global UGRAD fellowship.
Botir Makhmudov
Uzbekistan
Johnson County Community College
Business
Botir is pursing a bachelor’s degree in management and entrepreneurship at the Management Development Institute of Singapore in his home city of Tashkent, Uzbekistan. He enjoys playing soccer and tutoring his fellow students in mathematics and marketing. Botir is interested in learning more about small business development, banking and finance during his Global UGRAD fellowship and looks forward to watching American football and basketball games.
Davronbek Omonov
Uzbekistan
Fox Valley Technical College
Business
Originally from Andijan, Uzbekistan, Davronbek is a student in business and marketing at the Management Development Institute of Singapore in Tashkent, where he was active in the drama and debate clubs and volunteered for the Red Cross/Red Crescent. Davronbek is interested in learning more about the US economy and way of life during his year as a Global UGRAD fellow. He looks forward to participating in American sports and games and seeing how Halloween, Christmas and Thanksgiving are celebrated.
Kristina Ramakaeva
Uzbekistan
Chadron State College
Education
Originally from Nukus, Uzbekistan, Kristina is studying for her bachelor’s degree in education at the Uzbek State University of World Languages in Tashkent. She enjoys dancing the waltz and the tango and studies German as well as English. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, Kristina hopes to learn more about American history, government and education and looks forward to celebrating Halloween in the United States.
Sevara Samatova
Uzbekistan
Berea College
Education
Originally from Djizak, Uzbekistan, Sevara is a student in English philology at the Uzbek State University of World Languages in Tashkent. Sevara participates in the debate and drama clubs at her university and enjoys teaching English and swimming in her spare time. During her Global UGRAD fellowship, she hopes to expand her knowledge of American literature, history, economy and culture and looks forward to attending American concerts.
Shoira Shamsieva
Uzbekistan
University of Evansville
Economics
Shoira is studying for her bachelor’s degree in international economic relations at the Tashkent State Institute of Oriental Studies in her home city of Tashkent, Uzbekistan. In addition to studying English, Shoira also attends German classes at the Goethe-Institute in Tashkent and is a member of the Young Economists Club at her university and the “Kelajak Ovozi” Center of Youth Initiatives in Tashkent. Shoira is interested in studying the economy of the United States and looks forward to attending college basketball games and a Beyonce Knowles or Maroon 5 concert during her time in America.