He’s Coming Home!!!
Upon being given the opportunity to study Arabic in Morocco for 8 months, I cannot deny that along with my excitement, I was filled with a certain anxiety. I experienced a new dread of leaving the comforts I've had my entire life to live among a people whose culture I knew so little about; with a family whose language I had yet to speak. As the first days of the program went by, I realized that, despite the culture shock I began to feel, I must learn to adapt to Moroccan society and maintain an open- mindedness unlike any that's ever been required of me. These first long, difficult days were followed by exhilarating weeks of exploration in Rabat, Morocco's Capital, where my studies and volunteer work took place. After months, however, this excitement turned into contentment, whereupon I truly began to acclimate to Moroccan society, and, in addition to the language, my understanding and appreciation of their culture, religion, and values grew. While on the National Security Language Initiative for Youth Scholarship, my fellow cohort members and I also took part in many trips to over 15 cities and many small towns throughout the Country. Providing further insight into the diversity of Morocco, these excursions caused me to just as much associate Morocco with the chilliness of Chefchaouen, the crashing waves of Essaouira, and the olive groves of Taounate as I do the infamous sand dunes of Merzouga. Homesickness during these times was unavoidable, and yet the unique memories I've made and the cultural understanding I have developed have made the commitment of completing my senior year abroad far worth it. When I return to Auburn on May 16th, I am beyond excited to share what I have learned and, hopefully, motivate others to consider studying abroad. Once again, leaving the comforts of my hometown in such a drastic way oftentimes made my experience and studies here difficult, yet finding comfort in the discomfort of traveling has proved a valuable skill that I cannot take for granted. I'm excited to use my Arabic skills while attending Georgetown University this Fall to study International Relations. Perhaps even more importantly, interacting with those of similar interests, as well as with foreign citizens, has prepared me for a career on the global stage. Jamison Celio was highlighted in the October 2023 Newsletter before leaving to study abroad . The following is Jamison ’ s words of his experience in Morocco learning Arabic this school year .
PUHSD فخور ! (PROUD!)
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