Volunteering at the American University of Armenia through the Armenian Youth Federation in Armenia, I was able to learn many new things about how engineering schools outside of the United States operate. I learned many new things about simulation and engineering software. Also, I was able to help a student with getting information on U.S. patent rights for a device that he invented. The most rewarding things for me this summer, however, was being able to start a Student Chapter of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, which I will continue to feed and assist from the U.S. side. I feel very fortunate to have been able to meet young people like myself in Armenia, who are interested in manufacturing with engineering backgrounds.

I plan on staying involved, as I feel I have a commitment to Armenia: to inform people that Armenia is a free and independent country and to let them know they can make a difference here.

Alan Broglin (USA),
AYF volunteer and BR/DH participant