By Edik Baghdasaryan, Davit Banuchyan, Hrayr Sargsyan

Karen Garabedian, Goriun Soghomonian and Harout Paloulian were classmates in Aleppo. Graduating seven years ago, they were forced to flee Syria due to the war and move to Armenia.

Karen (front row-second from right), Goriun (third row-fourth from left), Harout (third row-last on right)

All three now work at Armenian Software.

Harout came to Armenia in July 2012. Three days after arriving he gave a press interview claiming that Armavia, taking advantage of the dire plight of Syrian Armenians, charged him for a round trip ticket for his one way flight.

Hearing the story, Armenian Software President Ashot Khachatryan invited Harout for a job interview and offered the young man a job.

Harout Paloulian

Karen, Harout and Goriun have all decided to resettle in Armenia.

Harout actively participated in demonstrations opposing mandatory pension payments and the Baghramyan protests against the recent electricity rate hike.

Goriun Soghomonian

What Goriun misses most is the singing group back in Aleppo. He used to play the violin. “When you struggle, you can make it,” he says regarding the difficulties of life in Armenia.

Karen Garabedian

Karen had trouble adjusting to Armenia when she first arrived. She couldn’t understand people who mixed so many Russian words when speaking Armenian.

All three live with their families in rented apartments. They are convinced they can overcome the challenges, just as long as they’re gainfully employed. 

In the video below, the former classmates reminisce about life in Aleppo and their school days.