Armroots Camp
The ARMROOTS Summer School is a 4-week program that immerses participants in Armenia’s culture, history, and innovations through workshops, creative media projects, and excursions. With flexible options to attend one, several, or all weeks, students can tailor their experience based on their interests. Participants will also become ambassadors for Armenia, sharing its story through media projects that promote the country’s culture, attract tourists, and support the economy!
ARMROOTS Summer School is an immersive program organized by the ARMROOTS NGO in close collaboration with the “Ohanyan” Educational Complex in Armenia and Eurasia International University.
The program is coordinated by Arevik Ohanyan, who brings over 15 years of experience in managing international projects and student exchange programs. Arevik holds a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from the American University of Armenia and is currently pursuing a Doctorate (Executive EdD in Higher Education Administration) at Boston College, USA. She is a co-founder of the ARMROOTS NGO and serves on the founding boards of “Little Newton” Kindergarten, “Ohanyan” Educational Complex, and Eurasia International University.
Throughout the program, students will engage with Armenian culture, history, and traditions through a rich array of interactive and participatory activities, including workshops, excursions, and meetings with prominent cultural and artistic figures. A key aim of the summer school is to foster connections between Armenian youth living in the diaspora and those residing in Armenia, achieved through collaborative projects and digital storytelling projects.
Throughout the 4-week program, students will be tasked with creating various media projects at the end of each week, including photo shoots, articles, blogposts in different languages, or other creative content that highlights Armenia’s unique culture, history, and landscapes. These projects will be disseminated to help attract more tourists to Armenia. While enjoying the company of their peers, students will not only engage in a meaningful creative journey but also contribute to the country’s development by showcasing its beauty and heritage to the world.
Program Highlights
Connect with Peers
Build lifelong friendships with Armenian peers
Sports Competitions
Team up with new friends for exciting games
Museums & History
Walk through Armenia’s past and future, discover its hidden gems
Cooking Classes
Master the art of lavash baking and Armenian cuisine
Digital Storytelling
Through digital storytelling techniques, students will capture and share Armenia’s rich culture globally.
Shooting Range
Test your aim and learn new skills
Language immersion
Participants will improve their English speaking skills, while diaspora Armenians will enhance their Armenian.
Volunteering and Storytelling
Certificates will be awarded for completing volunteer work and creating valuable experiences for future university applications.
Why Choose ARMROOTS?
- More Than Sightseeing: Immerse yourself in Armenia’s rich history and vibrant present through hands-on experiences.
- Deep Connections: Meet and bond with Armenian peers from around the world.
- Cultural Interactions: Cook traditional dishes, dance to Armenian rhythms, and share stories that shape our collective identity.
- Adventure & Fun: Engage in sports competitions, see breathtaking landscapes, and test your skills at a shooting range.
- Volunteering & Storytelling: Contribute through volunteer and community work and create compelling stories for future university applications.
Who can join?
Teenagers aged 13-18 from Armenia and the Armenian diaspora who wish to connect, learn, and explore Armenia.
When?
First week (Yerevan): June 23 – June 27
Second week (Yerevan): June 30 – July 04
Third week (Yerevan): July 07 – July 11
Fourth week (Dilijan): July 14 – July 18
Early Bird Application Deadline
The application deadline is April 30.
Organizers
About ARMROOTS
ARMROOTS is a non-profit organization aimed at strengthening educational ties between the diaspora and Armenia. Through various educational projects, ARMROOTS creates opportunities for a deeper understanding of Armenian identity, history, culture, and traditions, serving as a bridge between Armenia and the diaspora. At the same time, ARMROOTS creates opportunities for international training, capacity-building, knowledge sharing, and experience exchange among educators, university professors, scientists, and administrative staff. It promotes educational innovations, scientific collaborations between diaspora and Armenian scholars through grant programs, international visits, capacity-building initiatives, and infrastructure improvement projects.
About the Co-Hosts
The “Ohanyan” Educational Complex is an accredited IB (International Baccalaureate) World School, committed to providing education that meets international standards. This achievement highlights the school’s dedication to fostering knowledgeable, analytical, investigative, open-minded, and effective communicators with strong teamwork and leadership skills.
🔗 Website: www.ohanyan.org
Eurasia International University (EIU) is a leading higher education institution focused on developing entrepreneurial skills, implementing international innovative educational programs, and promoting academic excellence. The university offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in various fields and actively collaborates with European partner universities to facilitate student and faculty exchanges and joint degree programs.
🔗 Website: www.eiu.am
ARMROOTS Summer Experience
The “Ohanyan” Educational Complex and Eurasia International University, combining their expertise and resources, will support the ARMROOTS Summer School, providing unforgettable memories for participants with the help of the faculty and staff. Both institutions have around 30 years of experience in organizing international summer schools and student exchange programs.
Program
Discover Armenia Like Never Before: 4-Week Adventure for Teens (Option for 1-Week Participation)
Ready for an unforgettable experience? Join us for an exciting and interactive 4-week program exploring Armenia’s rich heritage, thrilling adventures, and vibrant youth culture. Whether you want to explore all four weeks or just dive into one specific week, we’ve got you covered!
Creative Media Projects to Highlight Armenia’s Tourism
Throughout the program, students will engage in creative media content creation that supports Armenia’s tourism by showcasing the country’s beauty, culture, and history through the eyes of the youth. From photography and video projects to social media challenges, participants will play an active role in highlighting Armenia’s unique cultural landmarks and modern vibe. The best works will be published and distributed by our partner media platforms to reach a wider audience.
Week 1: Armenian Heritage and Traditions
- First week: June 23 – June 27
This week is all about Armenia’s traditional arts, crafts, music, cuisine, and cultural heritage. Get creative and engage in hands-on activities, visits to historic sites, and interactive workshops!
- Day 1: Introduction to Armenian culture through fun games and visits to the Folk Art Museum of Armenia.
- Day 2: Learn traditional Armenian dances and explore the Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery. Shoot photos and videos with mentors and professionals.
- Day 3: Armenian Cooking Challenge – make and enjoy traditional dishes.
- Day 4: Visit Noravank Monastery and Khor Virap Monastery. Capture stunning landscapes and dive into Armenia’s heritage. Here as well, we will have time for collecting media artifacts for projects.
- Day 5: Finalize and showcase your heritage projects: videos, photos, and reflections on your experience. Your mentors and professionals will be next to you, supporting in this important journey.
Want to immerse in Armenian history and traditions for one week? Week 1 is perfect for you!
Week 2: Exploring Armenia Through Adventure and Creativity
- Second week: June 30 – July 04
This week mixes adventure, creative challenges, and interactive learning. Perfect for teens who love exploring new places and being creative!
- Day 1: Preparatory workshops and visit to Azatazen Shooting Range.
- Day 2: Enjoy the beauty of Lake Sevan, capturing photos and videos of the stunning landscapes and historic landmarks (no swimming though).
- Day 3: Explore modern Armenian art at the Cafesjian Museum and create personalized souvenirs at an art studio.
- Day 4: Discover Yerevan’s street culture with a photo story challenge, followed by a Social Media Workshop.
- Day 5: Role-play at Erebuni Fortress and create a fun digital project showcasing your week’s adventure (could be a short video, photo essay, or creative content).
If you’re seeking excitement, adventure, and creativity, Week 2 is the perfect fit!
Week 3: Modern Armenia and Youth Culture
- Third week: July 07 – July 11
Get to know modern Armenia through tech, art, and youth culture. A perfect week for teens interested in exploring today’s Armenia through the lens of technology, art, and innovation!
- Day 1: Visit and take interviews with young entrepreneurs and changemakers.
- Day 2: Visit Vernissage Market and Republic Square, capturing the modern vibe of Armenia.
- Day 3: Meet young entrepreneurs and explore Armenia’s growing tech scene.
- Day 4: Visit Yerevan Park, capture your adventures, and participate in a Social Media Challenge.
- Day 5: Final showcase of your projects: short films, Reels, or photo essays, essays, and articles about modern Armenia.
Interested in the pulse of modern Armenia and youth culture? Week 3 is for you!
Week 4: Discover Dilijan: Nature, Art, and Innovation
- Fourth week: July 14 – July 18
Explore the serene beauty and creative spirit of Dilijan. Perfect for teens interested in discovering the natural wonders, artistic heritage, and the vibrant innovation scene of one of Armenia’s most picturesque towns!
- Day 1: Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Dilijan National Park, capturing the beauty through photography and nature walks. Start planning your personal project!
- Day 2: Dive into the history and architecture of Haghartsin Monastery and get hands-on with traditional Armenian craftsmanship at the Tufenkian Heritage Hotel.
- Day 3: Meet young innovators and entrepreneurs in Dilijan, exploring how youth are blending culture and technology to shape the town’s future.
- Day 4: Explore Dilijan’s vibrant street art scene and modern creativity. Join an interactive workshop to craft a unique souvenir inspired by the town, and contribute to the community by participating in a local volunteering project.
- Day 5: Showcase your creative projects: short films, photo essays, or digital art that highlight your experience in Dilijan.
Ready to explore Dilijan’s beauty, culture, and innovation? Week 4 is your adventure!
Program Highlights with Unique Visits:
- “Azatazen” Shooting Range: An exciting visit to an authentic shooting range where students will engage in a fun and safe shooting experience, adding a unique activity to their adventure!
- “ATP” Karine’s Orchard: A memorable moment where each participant will plant their own tree at the Karine’s Orchard in Ashtarak Park. This special activity symbolizes your bond with Armenia’s natural beauty.
Join Us for One Week, Two Weeks, or All four!
Each week offers unique experiences and engaging activities, allowing you to pick the week that suits your interests! Whether you want to dive into Armenia’s heritage, enjoy an adventure-filled week, or explore youth culture and innovation, there’s something for everyone.
- Week 1: Dive into Armenia’s cultural roots and traditions.
- Week 2: Discover Armenia through adventure, art, and creativity.
- Week 3: Explore modern Armenia’s tech, youth culture, and innovation.
- Week 4: Dilijan: Nature, Community, and Local Engagement
Flexible Options for Teens:
- Join for one or more weeks that sparks your interest or experience all three for a complete journey through Armenia.
- Perfect for teens aged 13-18 looking to learn, create, and have fun in Armenia.
Don’t miss your chance to explore Armenia through your eyes! Limited spaces available: sign up now for the week (or weeks) that best suits your adventure!
Accomodation
For participants traveling without their parents, we are arranging host families through the OHANYAN Educational Complex. These families also have teenagers, and if they host a participant, their teenager will join the program free of charge. Accordingly, there are no accommodation fees for the three-week stay in Yerevan. This approach helps reduce costs while fostering better cultural exchange.
We carefully select host families, most of whom we have known and worked with for years.
How We Select Families:
- Safety & Well-being: Background checks, references, and emergency preparedness.
- Housing & Comfort: Private room or designated sleeping space in a clean, safe home with WiFi access.
- Cultural & Social Integration: Preference for families with teens to foster interaction and exposure to Armenian traditions.
- Logistics & Support: Assistance with transportation, nutritious meals, and basic needs.
- Commitment & Communication: Orientation for hosts, regular check-ins, and clear house rules.
Fees
Weekly Fee Structure:
Weeks 1-3 (Yerevan Program)
- Early Bird Price (Until April 30): 150,000 AMD per week
- Regular Price (After April 30): 190,000 AMD per week
- What’s Included:
- Full access to the entire program, including workshops, outings, and excursions.
- Lunch & snacks throughout the day.
Week 4 (Dilijan Program)
- Price: 350,000 AMD
- What’s Included:
- Full access to the entire program, including workshops, excursions.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the week, in addition to lunch & snacks during outings.
The group discount of 10% applies to groups consisting of 5 or more participants.
Advance payment: 20,000 AMD to reserve participation for each week. The amount is deducted from the total fee and is non-refundable in case of non-participation.
This fee covers all activities, meals, and transportation within the city and surrounding areas for each specific program. Sign up early to take advantage of the discounted early bird price!
FAQ
What is the language of instruction for the program?
As one of the primary objectives of the program is to improve proficiency in the Armenian language, most of the activities will be conducted in Armenian. However, the coordinators, instructors, and staff are fluent in English and can communicate effectively in English. If a participant is not proficient in Armenian, they will be paired with a buddy who will provide support throughout the program. This collaboration will help improve the participant’s Armenian language skills while offering the buddy the opportunity to enhance their own language abilities.
Does the program provide medical support?
Yes, the program ensures that all staff are equipped with first-aid supplies and are trained in administering basic first aid. In the event of more serious medical concerns, we have a clear protocol in place for contacting nearby medical facilities or specialists. Parents are required to complete a health questionnaire prior to the program, providing detailed information about any medical conditions or allergies their child may have, along with any specific instructions for care.
How is the safety of participants ensured?
The safety of all participants is our top priority. They will be under continuous supervision by trained and experienced staff members. We follow strict safety guidelines and protocols to ensure a secure environment for all activities. Our staff is well-prepared to handle any situations that may arise, ensuring that participants are always safe and well-cared for throughout the program.