Undergraduate Armenian Studies Research Symposium
On April 11th, 2025, undergraduate students and recent graduates took center stage at USC’s inaugural Undergraduate Armenian Studies Research Symposium. We were honored to be selected to present our original and innovative research on microloans and their impact on rural communities in Armenia. Our presentation was followed by a Q&A session where we got to answer questions, share more behind-the-scenes details, and hear what people were most curious about.
Engagement Over Charity: A Case Study of Diasporan Microloans in Rural Armenia
Using our microloan project in Lori, Armenia, as a case study, we explore how personal connection and relationship-building can deepen the long-term impact of diaspora aid. In collaboration with the Children of Armenia Fund (COAF), we spent over a month in the region selecting and supporting five rural entrepreneurs with zero-interest microloans focused on beekeeping. Loan recipients included a sister duo breaking gender norms, a war veteran and former POW rebuilding his life, and a father-son team with a shared vision. But this was more than financial support, we offered branding guidance, and mentorship, and built trust through consistent, face-to-face engagement. Drawing from microfinance literature and our first-hand fieldwork, we evaluated project outcomes two years after implementation, revealing significant entrepreneurial growth, increased household income, and enhanced community self-reliance.
- Michael Baghdassarian & John Baghdassarian
Work Experience
Digital Marketing & Strategy Intern, Media Nug
Assisted in creating and scheduling engaging content across platforms like Instagram and TikTok to boost brand visibility.
Analyzed post-performance metrics to optimize audience engagement and support marketing goals.
MediaNug is a cutting-edge creative agency founded by ex-Snapchat creatives, specializing in high-performing short-form content for TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Known for its viral-first, data-driven approach, MediaNug creates native ads for top brands like Caesars Palace, Ticketmaster, and PrizePicks—blending sharp strategy, influencer casting, and platform-specific storytelling to drive real results.
Member, USC Ski and Snowboard Team
Compete in slalom, giant slalom, and slopestyle events as part of a 20+ member co-ed team based out of Mammoth Mountain. Participate in spring training sessions and intercollegiate competitions against other California universities. The team also competes as part of the USCSA at both the regional and national levels.
Armenian Club
Creating this club was an opportunity to connect the La Salle community to our Armenian Culture. The cultural day event we planned was especially meaningful, seeing the amphitheater packed with students enjoying Armenian music and dance.
Ski Club
Starting the La Salle Ski and Snowboard Club had a significant impact on campus. It connected students who wouldn’t have otherwise met and known about each other's shared interest in winter sports. We also started the La Salle Ski and Snowboard Club on Instagram. This was a great learning lesson on how to create and plan content to grow members. We have around 316 followers and one video we posted generated over 1,000 likes and 24,000 views.
La Salle High School Student Ambassador and National Honor Society
Scroll down to view or click here to visit the website
🌱 Community Service
Project launch featured on Asbarez, an Armenian-American daily newspaper
⚾️ Sports
Being part of a team isn’t just about performance. It's about working together, listening to the coach’s instructions, having discipline, and managing your time - all great life lessons.
- Michael
What makes being part of this team meaningful is the way we help each other out. It's another layer of support in addition to your family.
- John