Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Recipient: Hasmik Meloyan

Allow us to introduce Hasmik Meloyan, one of the latest recipients of the ACFE Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship. Hasmik's journey is a testament to her relentless pursuit of academic and professional growth, all aimed at making a significant difference in the anti-fraud arena. From her early days as an audit intern at KPMG Armenia to her current role as a risk management specialist at the Central Bank of Armenia, Hasmik embodies the values and mission that the Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship seeks to promote. 

How did you hear about the Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship and what made you decide to apply?   

I learned about the Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship program from an Armenian educational social media page one year before applying. I worked really hard that year to gain accomplishments and to grow as a future professional in order to confidently apply for the scholarship. 

I decided to apply for the scholarship because the program impressed me a lot, as it gives you financial assistance for education and academic recognition to motivate you to study harder and fulfill your potential in the anti-fraud field. The scholarship is particularly appealing to me because its values and mission completely align with my personal values and interests. During that time, I was working for KPMG Armenia as an audit intern, and currently, I am continuing my anti-fraud career at the Central Bank of Armenia as a risk management specialist. 

How did you become passionate about fighting fraud? 

I live in a developing country, and fraud impacts the development of the country. My biggest goal is to fight against fraud, as it impacts people, industries, entities, services and the environment. Serious impacts can arise from any type and size of fraud, whether opportunistic individuals or serious and organized crime groups carry it out, and understanding the total impact of fraud allows everyone to make better-informed decisions. I am more than interested in fraud-prevention and see my whole future in this field, as I believe that with my profession, I can help my country and community obtain and maintain property, while fulfilling my passion to work in the anti-fraud field. 

Knowing that you are demonstrating your ethical standards and values to make a positive difference means a lot to me. 

What advice do you have for students who are interested in applying for the scholarship? 

I would advise students to apply for the scholarship without hesitation, as it is a great chance to be recognized by an international company for their accomplishments and potential, gain financial assistance for their academic performance and student membership by the ACFE.