Our Student Named “Outstanding Graduate” by the University of Arizona

Amir Agzamov, a student of the dual-degree Biotechnology program, has received the title and highest award of “Outstanding Graduate” from the College of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences at the University of Arizona. This title is awarded each semester to one top graduating student in every major.

This year, for the first time in history, the Outstanding Graduate is a fourth-year student of the dual-degree program between Kozybayev University and the University of Arizona.

“You embodied the true spirit of biotechnology through your leadership, research activities, and personal qualities. We hope you will take pride in being selected among your peers - it is truly well-deserved recognition of your high achievements and great potential. All our outstanding graduates across programs will receive individual awards to be presented in due course,” states the congratulatory letter sent to Amir by Dr. A. Elizabeth Arnold, Acting Director of the School of Plant Sciences at the University of Arizona.

Amir’s studies are funded through a grant and involve simultaneous enrollment at Kozybayev University and the University of Arizona. Students spend three and a half years studying in Kazakhstan and one semester in the United States. This year, Amir was among the first group of 29 students who visited the main campus in Tucson. He demonstrated a high level of academic and research performance.

Amir Agzamov is a bright example of a new-generation young researcher. He has been passionate about science since his school years, and during his bachelor’s studies he has already won internships at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia as well as at the National University of Singapore, where he gained invaluable experience in molecular biology.

During his semester in Arizona, Amir not only studied successfully and participated in research and various university activities, but also took part in a talent competition, introducing students from different countries to the Kazakh national instrument — the dombra. He even won a prize. His active student life and strong academic achievements allowed him to receive the title of Outstanding Graduate.

“This award came as a big surprise to me. While in the United States, I attended the ceremony honoring Outstanding Graduating Students. I thought that only American students or those studying directly on campus in Arizona could be nominated, not those in dual-degree programs. I am very pleased that my efforts and achievements were recognized by the University of Arizona. It is great motivation to keep moving toward my goals. I strive to continuously develop in science and take advantage of every opportunity to do so,” Amir Agzamov shared.

The Kozybayev University & University of Arizona dual-degree programs were launched only four years ago, but they have already shown significant results. The areas of study have expanded to include biotechnology, IT, inclusion in education, business, and management. The student body has grown, and students now come not only from Kazakhstan but also from the United States, China, and Russia. Recognition of the achievements of Kazakhstani students abroad further confirms the high quality of education and research.