I will often be asked the same questions after telling people about my scholarship and when I tell them about my career interest. I figured it might be helpful to give a couple answers to questions you may already have.
- What exactly will you be doing in your year abroad?
I will be studying Arabic at the University of Jordan in Amman, and if in English possibly other classes related to Middle Eastern studies. I will also be participating in volunteer work/community service projects. At this point I am not even sure what my host club is, so I am uncertain what projects they are involved with. If I have the opportunity, one area I am interested in is working with refugees.
- How did you become interested in the Middle East?
My interest in and awareness of cultures began when a group of Japanese exchange students came to visit my elementary school and I realized there were people on the other side of the world living their lives, some in similar ways and some in their unique ways. When signing up for the required language in High School I decided to take the "road less traveled" and study German. After meeting a German exchange student in the Jazz band and learning of his experiences, I decided I'd apply to be a foreign exchange student as well. I spent one year in Germany and met several amazing students from all around the world. Hearing them speak in their languages and talk about their cultures, my interest in cultures continued to grow. When I got to college I decided I wanted to study International Relations, a field where I hope to work with many foreign cultures. One day when I saw a flier that said "Sac State will be offering Arabic next semester. Learn a language needed more than ever" I realized I knew so little about the region and thought it would be interesting. After starting Arabic I was so intrigued about the history and culture I created myself a special minor in Middle Eastern studies.
- What do you want to do with Arabic/Middle East studies?
I think having personal interaction between cultures is crucial to maintaining and improving good relations between countries and any group of people. My goals are to: - Learn about the Middle Eastern cultures firsthand and share my culture with those I interact with, to help improve cultural understanding between the West and Middle East
- Develop lasting relationships to help further cross-cultural cooperation and dialogue
- Promote peace and goodwill in all cultures
- Find a career where I can work in the field of International Relations
