Eight languages and a mission: The Moldovan student shaping the future of diplomacy in Doha
Nicolae Cernomaz, a graduate of the "Aristotel" Republican Theoretical High School in Chisinau, is carving a path toward a global diplomatic career.
Currently a freshman at Georgetown University in Qatar, he is enrolled in the prestigious Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service program.
The young scholar recently completed his first semester with an impressive GPA of 3.86 out of 4.00. This ranking places him among the top students at the university’s Doha campus, a destination he chose for its specialized focus on international relations.
Building a foundation in global affairs
During his first two years, Nicolae is navigating a rigorous core curriculum. This "school of diplomatic service" includes mandatory courses in Microeconomics and intensive language studies in both Arabic and French.
Despite the perceived difficulty of Arabic, Nicolae has mastered its complexities. He attributes his success to immersion, noting that the language’s 28 letters and specific root structures become intuitive when practiced with native-speaking peers.
The multilingual edge in diplomacy
A true polyglot, Cernomaz is fluent in eight languages: Ukrainian, Russian, English, German, French, Turkish, Portuguese, and Arabic. He views linguistic mastery as the primary tool of his future profession.
"A diplomat must be a patriot first," Nicolae stated during an interview with Radio Moldova. He emphasizes that a representative speaks for a nation, requiring a deep understanding of international protocols and cultural ethics.
Bridging tradition and innovation
Adapting to Qatar’s tropical climate and being 3,000 kilometers from home were significant challenges. However, Nicolae describes the experience as life-changing, being fascinated by the blend of ancient Arabian tradition and futuristic urban development.
He recently returned to Moldova for the winter break, where he participated in the "Pedagogical Diplomacy" conference. Addressing over 100 educators, he presented his vision on how diplomatic values can inspire and motivate students in the classroom.
A moral obligation to the homeland
Looking ahead, the young diplomat does not rule out a return to the Republic of Moldova. He feels a strong moral obligation to contribute to his country’s development using the expertise gained abroad.
Nicolae’s journey from a top student in Chisinau to a high achiever in Doha exemplifies the potential of the Moldovan diaspora. His commitment to excellence continues to bridge the gap between Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
