Expectations vs. Reality: Three Volunteers Share Their Experiences in Armenia

If you're expecting Birthright Armenia to be a laid-back trip through your homeland with occasional visits to landmarks, buckle up! This is so much more than a typical volunteer program; it's a rollercoaster of emotions, challenges, and heartwarming moments that will change your perspective on what it means to be Armenian.

It’s All About the Connection

Simon Sazian from the U.S. went into our program with what some might call a typical diasporan perspective—romanticizing the homeland. But his time in Armenia helped him gain a much deeper understanding of the country. "It’s easy to view Armenia through rose-colored glasses," he says, but his experience showed him that there's more beneath the surface. Instead of the idealized version, he encountered a real place with real people, learning that the unrelenting love for Armenia should coexist with a rational interpretation of the country's realities.

David Manasjan from Germany felt the same way. Before joining Birthright, he knew he needed to fill the gap between university and work, but it was also an opportunity to experience Armenia in all its shapes and colors. “The more I stayed, the more I was able to differentiate my view about Armenia in comparison to previous trips that lasted two or three weeks," he says. "It seemed like I lived there permanently."

Finding Your Place in Armenia

David's journey with Birthright Armenia allowed him to see the country from a completely different angle. Working for a charity and helping small businesses, he got to experience the real Armenia—the one with its struggles and triumphs. He recalls the moments of peace while seeing Mount Ararat in the morning or experiencing the deep connection to nature during a hike, realizing the impact of his work and the people he helped.

Sona Hovakimyan from Russia had a similar journey. Initially, she intended to lead projects but found herself in a more supportive role, which required a certain level of trust. "I understand that without this trust, I will not be able to fully demonstrate my skills or advance professionally," she says. This is where the reality of volunteering hits: it's not always glamorous, but it's incredibly rewarding.

Discovering Armenia’s Soul

It's the little moments that create a deep connection to Armenia. Simon found it in the azgagrakan (folk) dance community. “The history and theory connected to each step, each rhythm, and each dance is nothing short of a miracle,” he shares. Similarly, David felt the connection during the dance classes of the late, great Gagik Ginosyan, where he learned about Armenia's rich cultural heritage, reinforcing his ties to the country.

For Sona, the turning point was a simple yet profound realization: "Armenia is about real people." These words, spoken to her by Birthright Armenia country director Sevan Kabakian, kept resonating in her mind, gaining deeper significance with each recollection. It's about the people you meet, the stories you hear, and the bonds you form.

Advice for Aspiring Volunteers: Dive In and Be Open

If you're considering volunteering in Armenia, Simon suggests making the most of it. "The experience will be all that you make it to be." David echoes this sentiment, encouraging new volunteers to "get out of your comfort zone" and experience Armenia in its full glory. Sona adds that the journey through Birthright is full of emotions. "Some may find their place and wish to extend their stay, while others may choose not to return," she says. But ultimately, these experiences alone don't define your Armenian identity—it's up to you to determine who you are.

Birthright Armenia isn’t just about volunteering; it's about discovering your roots, understanding the challenges, and creating a connection that lasts a lifetime. It's not always easy, but it's always worth it. If you're ready to explore Armenia's heart and soul, our program is calling your name!