Have you explored a question about Armenia, Armenians, or Armenian communities in one of your classes? Have you written a paper or worked on a project that you would love to take further?
Here’s your chance to share your work, develop your ideas, and join a community of students and scholars interested in Armenian Studies.
The USC Dornsife Institute of Armenian Studies, in collaboration with the USC Armenian Student Association (ASA), invites undergraduate students from universities across the United States to submit research proposals for the Undergraduate Armenian Studies Research Symposium, taking place in February 2027 at USC.
What kind of research can you submit?
We welcome research on any topic related to Armenia, Armenians, or Armenian communities, past or present, anywhere in the world.
Your project might explore history, language, art, politics, economics, identity, migration, the environment, or another subject entirely. We are especially interested in bringing together students from different academic disciplines and perspectives.
You do not need to be an Armenian Studies major or have completed an Armenian Studies research project to apply. Research done as part of a class, independent study, or another undergraduate project is welcome. Multimedia projects may also be considered.
Who can apply?
Undergraduate students enrolled at a U.S. college or university during the 2026–27 academic year, as well as students who graduated in Spring 2026 are eligible to apply.
Travel Assistance
The symposium will take place in person at the University of Southern California. Travel assistance will be provided to out of town participants.
How to apply
To apply, submit a 250-word abstract by December 12, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time.
What is an abstract? An abstract is simply a short summary of your research. In approximately 250 words, tell us:
- What question or topic are you exploring?
- Why is it interesting or important?
- What sources, evidence, or materials are you using?
- What have you discovered so far, or what do you hope to find?
You don’t need to have all the answers yet. We want to understand your research question, your approach, and what makes your project worth exploring.
What happens if your proposal is selected?
If selected, you will be asked to submit an 8–10 page double-spaced draft of your research paper by January 22, 2027.
You will be paired with a scholar in Armenian Studies who will offer mentorship and feedback as you prepare your presentation for the February symposium.
At the symposium, each student will give a 20-minute presentation followed by a short Q&A. Presentations will be organized into panels around shared themes.
The symposium will also feature a keynote address by a leading Armenian Studies scholar. Prizes will be awarded to the top three research presentations.
Don’t miss your chance to develop your research skills, showcase your work, and receive mentorship from a scholar in your field. Apply today!
Click here to apply!
Questions? Contact Dr. Lilit Keshishyan at [email protected].
