My trip to Jordan was a wonderful experience that I both enjoyed and learned from. I spent my days attending interesting classes, exploring the city of Amman, and getting to know locals and my cohort.
My program, SIT’s Jordan Refugee, Health, and Humanitarian Action, taught me a lot about the health systems and human rights practices in the Middle East region. Additionally, Jordan has much to offer, such as beautiful landscapes in the north and amazing deserts in the south (not to mention the breathtaking Petra!).
As it was my first extended stay outside of the United States, I got to experience living within another culture firsthand. This is especially true because many people around me assumed I was a local because of my looks and hijab. These misunderstandings led to some unique experiences that never failed to make things interesting! I also appreciated the opportunity to practice my Arabic language skills and connect with other Muslims.
As I studied abroad, I learned to trust in myself and my abilities. Encountering and navigating new situations helped me build my confidence. My classes and internship experience especially helped me feel more prepared to graduate and begin my career.
My advice to other University of Iowa students would be to be open to new opportunities. Not every situation will be the best, but every situation is a learning experience. I would also advise that you learn where your resources and support systems are. The study abroad office has plenty of information and staff that can help you with any issues you have while traveling, regardless of your background.
LEARN HOW YOU CAN APPLY FOR A GLOBAL ACCESS AMBASSADOR SCHOLARSHIP
The Global Access Ambassador Scholarship program provides awards to study abroad for a summer, semester, or academic year. The scholarships are intended to support students who study abroad with the intent to serve as Global Access Ambassadors upon return to the UI campus. Upon completion of the study abroad program and return to UI, award recipients are asked to submit a photo and an open letter to prospective students or suggest an alternate means of sharing with prospective students.
Please note that the opinions and views expressed by ambassadors are solely those of the students and do not reflect or represent the views of International Programs or the University of Iowa.
International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement. IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.