Edmon Makaryan, a graduate of the “Educational and Sports Complex” institution of “Gazprom Armenia” CJSC for the 2024–2025 academic year, was awarded first prize in the “Best Student” nomination at the 21st annual educational awards ceremony in the field of information technologies organized by Synopsis Armenia.

126 participants participated in the competition, of whom 27 students and 9 pupils received prizes.

We talked with Edmon about the knowledge he has gained at school, his ideas about education, and his plans for the future.

— You signed a targeted agreement with Gazprom Armenia CJSC, which allowed you to study in the 12th grade at our educational complex with full tuition reimbursement. Now, you are continuing your studies in Moscow at the I. M. Gubkin Russian State University of Oil and Gas. What influenced your decision?

When I learned about this opportunity, I realized it could shape my future. According to the agreement, I would study at one of the best universities in Russia and then return to Armenia to work at Gazprom Armenia CJSC. This was a chance I could not afford to miss.

— Beyond acquiring basic knowledge, what significance did studying at the educational complex hold for you?

— I have made significant progress at the educational complex because the education I received here has greatly contributed to my future. In particular, I have deepened my knowledge of Mathematics and Physics. At our school, I have become more self-confident and ambitiously motivated in a positive way. My circle of friends has expanded, and my attitude toward people has changed. I have changed schools three times, each time encountering a new environment. Naturally, adapting repeatedly is challenging. However, it was at this school that I became more sociable and straightforward. My classmates and the warm atmosphere helped me find my place quickly. I never imagined I would grow so close to my classmates and school so fast. I must say that the educational system here has prepared me well for university life, and the teachers are always ready to answer all my questions. I maintain regular contact with the educational complex. My headmaster, teachers, and the school administration are always interested in my personal and academic achievements.

— Was it expected that I would become the top student in the IT sector of the Republic of Armenia?

— It was very unexpected, honestly. I am very happy, but I also recognize what a binding award it is.

— How did the agreement with Gazprom Armenia CJSC change your life?

— I was proud to have been awarded a scholarship. It is a significant responsibility, but I do not shy away from it. I understand that, as a scholarship recipient, I must uphold the honor of both the school and the institution.

— What difficulties have you encountered while studying abroad?

— Living and studying far from your homeland is, of course, difficult. You leave your friends and relatives behind. However, it has helped me a lot to adapt knowing that there are also students from Armenia and graduates of my school at the university who help and support me in all matters.

— What kind of specialist do you envision yourself becoming in the future?

— I have always believed that human qualities are paramount. In five years, I aim to be, first and foremost, a good person, and then a specialist who is well-versed in my profession and contributes to my country.

— What advice would you give to students aspiring to sign an agreement with Gazprom Armenia CJSC?

— Never give up, because there are many difficulties and always will be. If we get discouraged by every challenge, we will not get anywhere. I must tell those who will be awarded the scholarship that you cannot stop halfway. You must keep going, and only then will success become possible.