"This idea of links between past and present, ancient and modern, describes my engagement with Armenia more broadly. I just completed my master of theological studies at Harvard University with a focus on Silk Road religions. This fall, I will continue my doctoral studies at Harvard with a concentration in the history of Christianity. My research specifically concerns the influences of Zoroastrian and Manichaean thinking on ancient Syriac and Armenian Christianity. If any of these terms seem foreign, don’t worry—my interests are quite niche!"

This is how volunteer Julia Hintlian (US) describes her experience in Armenia. Read the full piece she's written for the Smithsonian Folklife Festival to learn more about Julia's discoveries in Armenia.