It takes proactive and engaged leaders to make a change, fueled by democracy. This belief is at the core of AUBG’s mission. In fact, as President Margee Ensign often emphasizes, AUBG is the only university in the world that has the word “democracy” in its mission statement, and it’s what motivated her to join the institution.
Our students, too, are attracted to this dynamic hub of knowledge, a progressive mindset, and most importantly, a buzzing hive of opportunities to grow and practice the values fostered by the liberal arts education.
This is certainly the case for Arina Agayeva, a third-year student majoring in both Political Science and Information Systems, who is undoubtedly on the path to becoming one of the next great democratic leaders.
Representing AUBG at the Athens Democracy Forum
During the Athens Democracy Forum, organized by the Great Lakes Colleges Association, (GLCA), which helps strengthen and preserve thirteen U.S. colleges in the tradition of the liberal arts, Arina was selected to represent AUBG alongside 22 international students and professionals. We’re honored to have had such a distinguished student showcase our institution and what we stand for.
Connecting with global peers
“I got to meet international students I wouldn’t have otherwise,” Arina shared. “We exchanged experiences from different countries and discussed how to create actionable policies, which is in line with the Forum’s motto, ‘Think, talk, do’. That’s what I gained the most from, learning from my peers and the teams, because this Forum included people of all ages.”
The Forum was a long process spanning over the summer and culminating in a three-day event in Athens, full of panels, empowered discussions, and reports documenting the panels, written by students. Arina was selected to give a speech on the democratization of AI in political parties.
“I had to do a lot of reading and even packed five books from Panitza Library in my suitcase,” Arina said, highlighting her dedication to preparing for the Forum.
Farah Nayeri, Culture Correspondent, The New York Times; Steven Erlanger, Chief Diplomatic Correspondent, Europe, The New York Times; Arina Agayeva
Sophie Veriter, Ph.D. Candidate in Security and Global Affairs, Leiden University; Arina Agayeva; Hussam Erhayel, Head of Projects, Apolitical Foundation
AUBG’s holistic education: the key to success
Arina credits AUBG’s holistic approach to education as essential to her success at the Forum. She observed that nearly everything already discussed at the Forum had already been covered in lectures or found in the wealth of additional materials shared by professors.
“Almost every panel connected back to my classes, so I could engage with the speakers without any extra preparation.
“Classes at AUBG are not just about reading textbooks; our professors are committed to staying current,” Arina explained.
She also credits the group presentations and oral speaking classes for teaching her how to “express opinions while being respectful of others,” a skill that proved to be crucial for the Forum.
Another key experience that prepared Arina was Ambassadors Day at AUBG, an event that has been held for years, with the most recent one taking place on October 8, 2024.
“I’ve been a student ambassador for several years, and this experience has taught me how to interact with high-ranking officials and develop essential etiquette,” explained Arina.
Supportive guidance and mentorship
Arina received additional support from Professor Levine, who teaches Global Political Economy and introduced her to the opportunity, as well as from other faculty members. She describes her professors as “always approachable”.
“I visited them during office hours, and as soon as I received my presentation topic, they encouraged me, suggested relevant reading materials, and ensured I presented well,” Arina noted.
In Athens, the support line was passed on to the two project organizers, Mickey McDonald, President of GLCA, and Program Director Simon J. M. Gray, who ensured Arina’s success and satisfaction with the event.
“They helped me grasp the topic since I was presenting on something unfamiliar to mе – AI – which we haven’t yet covered in my curriculum,” Arina explained.
Taking on the challenge of presenting on an unfamiliar subject allowed Arina to broaden her horizons. This is at the heart of what The Athens Democracy Forum, and democracy itself, embodies: exploring new perspectives and uncharted territories.
Inspiring pathways to change
This experience inspired Arina to reflect more deeply on her future career.
“The Athens Democracy Forum showed me that the future holds the possibility for technology and people to collaborate, not compete. It also gave me the confidence that after graduating and completing my internships in the EU, I’ll be able to return to my home country Kazakhstan and help strengthen democracy with the power of technology.”
When asked how she found the overall experience of the Athens Democracy Forum, Arina remarked,
“It was intense, but rewarding.”
For more inspiring stories about future democratic leaders, follow our blog, or explore our academics and join the AUBG empowering community.
