Meeting with Ilias Suvanot, a graduate of AUCA and MIT
April 3, 2026
On March 31, the AUCA Economics Department organized a meeting with Ilias Suvanov, a graduate of AUCA and MIT.
During the meeting, he shared his personal story, explaining how he first became involved with AUCA and how, at the beginning of his academic journey, he could not have imagined where it would lead him. Over time, his studies and experiences spanned several countries, including Kyrgyzstan, China, Russia, and the United States. Ilias mentioned that he was able to enroll at AUCA on an almost fully funded basis and chose to study Economics. A defining factor in his journey was the AUCA environment. Surrounded by inspiring professors and ambitious peers, he felt encouraged to aim higher and eventually consider applying to MIT.
As a first step, he enrolled in the MITx MicroMasters program, which is accessible to anyone and costs around $500 in total. After completing the program, Ilias applied to the MIT graduate program in Data, Economics, and Development Policy.
“I used to think that getting into MIT was impossible. But thanks to my professors at AUCA, I realized that anything is possible for me.” - Ilias Suvanov.
During the meeting, he shared his personal story, explaining how he first became involved with AUCA and how, at the beginning of his academic journey, he could not have imagined where it would lead him. Over time, his studies and experiences spanned several countries, including Kyrgyzstan, China, Russia, and the United States. Ilias mentioned that he was able to enroll at AUCA on an almost fully funded basis and chose to study Economics. A defining factor in his journey was the AUCA environment. Surrounded by inspiring professors and ambitious peers, he felt encouraged to aim higher and eventually consider applying to MIT.
As a first step, he enrolled in the MITx MicroMasters program, which is accessible to anyone and costs around $500 in total. After completing the program, Ilias applied to the MIT graduate program in Data, Economics, and Development Policy.
“I used to think that getting into MIT was impossible. But thanks to my professors at AUCA, I realized that anything is possible for me.” - Ilias Suvanov.
Ilias highlighted how his education provided him with essential knowledge but also helped him develop the professional skills that became the foundation of his successful career. He currently serves as a consultant to the Chief Economist for North Africa and the Middle East at the World Bank.
The Q&A session was particularly lively, as students actively engaged with Ilias, asking thoughtful questions and showing great interest in his academic and professional journey.
