Armenian Behavioral Science Students offer creative opportunities

“How can Armenian students in US high schools and colleges/universities best advance their careers in the behavioral sciences?”

In September of 2022, Armenian Behavioral Science Students (ABSS) was formed by high school student Kristina Khrimian (Rockville, MD) to address this important question. This unifying and bold organization serves to increase opportunities for students of Armenian descent interested in the behavioral sciences, while creating a safe space to destigmatize mental health challenges.

As of January 2023, ABSS has 60 members from 14 states and Armenia and is welcoming new students as officers to expand its diverse programs benefiting Armenian students.

ABSS founder & president Kristina Khrimian

Khrimian, who serves as president, and vice president Ani Mosinyan (Bethesda, MD) are leading the organization and uniting members through various events. Since September of 2022, ABSS has developed many programs.

First, ABSS has hosted a monthly series of webinars, where students were able to meet distinguished behavioral scientists. In early 2023, ABSS will continue this monthly webinar series with such outstanding scientists who support students, such as Professor Hrant Avanesyan, PhD in Yerevan and Dr. Myron Allukian, DDS, MPH.

Second, ABSS has partnered with a UN-affiliated nonprofit organization to launch a fundraiser dedicated to trauma prevention and mental health services for individuals in Armenia and Artsakh.

Third, ABSS is developing educational videos on various mental health topics surrounding the Armenian community, which range from anxiety and depression to PTSD after war. Many topics focus on recent events, such as the 2020 Artsakh War, while others focus on history (e.g. the Armenian Genocide).

Fourth, ABSS is cooperating on projects with other student organizations. For example, ABSS is partnering with Psi Alpha Psychology Honor Society to promote a new video on “How high school students can find a mentor.” This tape was created with the American Psychological Association (APA), featuring Brian Caballo and Harold Takooshian. ABSS members will also engage in research studies, including forming surveys, writing articles and collecting general data.

Students are welcome to contact ABSS to get involved in 2023 at armenian.bss@gmail.com.