My Background: From Armenia to Brown University

I am from Yerevan, Armenia, and I attended the Yerevan branch of the Russian Economics University named after G.V. Plekhanov. It was a vocational school that played an essential role in shaping my academic foundation.

Currently, I don’t have a declared major (or “concentration” as it’s called at Brown), but I am considering International and Public Affairs. I love the education at Brown because of its flexibility—it truly allows me to shape my academic journey based on my passions and interests.

Why I Chose the US and Which Other Countries I Considered

Studying abroad appealed to me because of the incredible opportunities it offers, the flexibility of the educational systems, and the chance to experience something entirely different. It was also about accessing high-quality education while immersing myself in a new culture.

~The US stood out for its diversity and the unmatched level of flexibility in higher education, which made it my top choice. While I also considered other countries like the UK and Canada for their excellent academic programs, the US was unique in its combination of academic freedom, diversity, and opportunity.

Why I Chose Brown: Freedom, Flexibility, and Global Growth

My decision to apply to Brown was driven by its emphasis on academic freedom, quality of education, and the endless opportunities it offers. The open curriculum at Brown allows me to explore my interests in depth without the constraints of a rigid structure. Studying abroad was a natural choice for me because I wanted to experience an educational system that values creativity and individuality. Brown’s approach aligned perfectly with my aspirations, and I wanted to immerse myself in an environment where I could find the perfect fit for my academic and personal growth.

Securing a Full Scholarship at Brown: The Financial Aid Process

The application process is a complex, multi-step journey that requires consistency and persistence. While no single aspect stood out as particularly challenging, I did face moments of uncertainty, especially during the essays. I overcame these by staying focused, relying on my support systems, and reminding myself of my goals. As for securing my full scholarship, Brown offers full need-based scholarships to students who are admitted. My financial aid package was a testament to the university’s commitment to making education accessible to students from all backgrounds.

My Stats

• For my English proficiency test, I took the Duolingo exam and scored 145 points.

• I didn't take the SAT or TOEFL; Brown is no longer SAT-optional.

• My GPA from college one is 4.9/5

How FLEX and CCC Shaped My College Application Journey

FLEX was a transformative experience that inspired me to apply to universities in the US. It exposed me to new opportunities and gave me the confidence to aim high. The EducationUSA’s Competitive College Club (CCC) program provided incredible support throughout the application process, from essay reviews to interview preparation. Special credit goes to my advisor, Inna Ghabulyan, for her invaluable guidance.

Application Process

I started working on my application early, around July or August. Knowing that I wouldn’t always be consistent due to other commitments, I gave myself plenty of time. The personal statement took the longest to complete, as it required multiple drafts and deep introspection.

My personal statement was about my immigration journey from Russia to Armenia and the adjustment challenges that came with it. My supplemental essays blended personal stories and reflections on life-changing moments

● I also utilized CCC advising, Crimson Education, YouTube videos, and Spotify podcasts featuring admissions officers. These resources provided me with valuable insights into crafting a strong application.

Balancing Academics and Extracurriculars

I found ways to combine different aspects of my life. For example, I co-led Maqoor with my best friends, which made it both a social and professional experience. Similarly, I prepared my college applications with one of my best friends, turning it into a collaborative effort. These overlapping experiences made balancing everything easier.

Adapting to a New Environment

The adaptation process wasn’t challenging because Brown offers tremendous support for incoming students. The first week was all about orientation, where I met many incredible people. Some of the friends I made during that week have since become my closest companions. The transition to life at Brown and living abroad was smooth, thanks to the university’s supportive environment. Academically, I made a few mistakes in how I approached classes early on, but those were valuable lessons. By the end of the first semester, I felt much more confident in both my academic and social life.

The Most Surprising Aspect Of Studying At Brown

The most surprising aspect is how flexible the curriculum is. The open curriculum allows me to explore my interests freely, and the overall system is incredibly supportive. Education here feels like a privilege and a joy.

A Memorable Academic Moment in Entrepreneurship: Honors and Achievements

One of the most impactful moments was taking a class on the Management of Industrial and Nonprofit Organizations. I didn’t know at the time that the professor was the founder of Brown’s largest business and entrepreneurial initiatives. His class introduced me to incredible speakers and business founders, expanding my perspective on entrepreneurship.

● While I believe my greatest achievements are still ahead of me, receiving startup funds from a professor who founded Brown’s business and entrepreneurship initiatives is a moment I hold close. It was a rewarding experience to be recognized and supported by someone who has made such a significant impact on the entrepreneurial landscape at Brown. This opportunity not only validated my ideas but also fueled my passion for pursuing innovative projects with a sense of purpose. It’s a reminder that the journey is just as important as the destination…

Key Strategies for Staying Organized and Energized

Staying organized starts with maintaining focus. I nurture my focus by staying physically active, ensuring I get enough sleep, and managing my time effectively. At Brown University, the open curriculum fosters independence and curiosity, which is both a blessing and a challenge. With so much freedom in choosing courses, it’s important to develop personal systems to stay on top of things. I’ve learned that creating a structured routine helps me maintain focus, and sleep has become a non-negotiable part of my process. While it can be tempting to stay up late to finish assignments or catch up with friends, I’ve found that a well-rested mind is much more productive and creative in the long run.

Time management is key, especially in Brown’s flexible environment. Personally, I’ve found that blocking out specific hours for studying, breaks, and even socializing ensures I stay balanced. Knowing that I’ve scheduled time for everything helps me avoid feeling overwhelmed. It’s all about experimenting and figuring out what works best for you. Ultimately, staying organized is a personal journey, and finding your rhythm is essential in making sure you stay focused and productive.

Beyond the Classroom: A Memorable Moment That Significantly Impacted Me

One of my favorite memories was taking a winter class on Cabo Verde’s history and healthcare. As part of the course, we traveled to Cabo Verde, escaping the cold Providence winter. It gave me a deeper understanding of global health and cultural exchange. The trip was an incredible experience that energized me for the next semester and deepened my connection with my peers and professor.

Qualities / Experiences Applicants Should Highlight in Their Application Process to Stand Out

1. When applying to Brown, it’s essential to focus on what makes you truly unique. Brown’s admissions team values authenticity, so present yourself as you are, rather than fitting into an expected mold. Highlight personal experiences, passions, and perspectives that define you. Whether it’s a project you’ve undertaken, challenges you’ve overcome, or a unique experience shaped by travel, volunteer work, or overcoming adversity, these moments are what make you stand out. Applicants should showcase their authentic selves. A strong application reflects who you are and why you’re a good fit for the university. If your application is genuine and well-crafted, you’ll end up at the school that’s right for you.

2. Intellectual curiosity is another key trait Brown seeks. With its open curriculum, Brown allows students to explore a wide range of subjects and create their own academic path. To stand out, showcase how you’ve embraced this intellectual freedom in your learning~ whether through independent study, creative projects, or exploring diverse fields. This shows your excitement for learning beyond traditional boundaries.

3. Community involvement also plays a crucial role. Brown students are passionate about social causes and collaboration. If you’ve participated in community service, leadership roles, or initiatives promoting change, highlight these experiences. Showing your commitment to making a difference signals that you’ll be an active, engaged member of the Brown community.

4. Finally, express how you align with Brown’s unique culture. Brown thrives on creativity, academic freedom, and interdisciplinary exploration. Be clear about how the environment at Brown will help you grow both academically and personally. Show how you can contribute to this community by bringing your own experiences, bright ideas, and ambitions to the table, and how you’ll help push it forward.

5. Therefore, if your application is genuine and well-crafted, you’ll end up at the school that’s right for you.

Tips for networking & making friends

I’m naturally communicative and open, so making friends came easily. My advice for forming friendships is to be yourself—don’t try to be someone you’re not. For networking, try to meet as many people as possible, target relevant events in your field, and learn how to present yourself effectively.

Advice for Aspiring Students Aiming to Study at Universities Like Brown

• Work hard, stay focused, and be consistent.

• Every step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goals.

• It’s all about putting in the effort and staying true to yourself— because that’s where your strength and uniqueness lie.