I think my #1 trait here in Jordan is that I am a native English speaker.
Pretty frequently when strangers discover that I am American and that I am a teacher, they always ask for my help.
Like I went to the police station to get my visa extended and all the officer's were like "Oh Mam, can you teach our sons English?" And at school during the second week, I had a visitor who came to see if I would practice English conversation with his friend. I said "sure" and the next day he showed up with 6 people who all wanted to practice conversation during my 1 hour lunch break.
On campus a student stopped me and asked me where I was from. "The US," I said. He responded, with "OMG, it's such a pleasure to speak with a native English speaker, thank you!"
Even the 26 year old secretary in my office attempts to skip out on as much of his own work as possible, to sit in on my lectures.
Oh and this week, my roommate asked me if I can teach all the students in her department at Yarmouk University. Apparently, its a really good way to make extra money. So I am considering it, although if I have the spare time and energy I would gladly do it for free. I mean I came to Jordan to teach, to impact the lives of others, and to learn about myself and develop...so "the more the merrier" they say.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Overdoing it.
I have noticed that most of the women here love the makeup, like seriously love it. Especially eye makeup. I'm not trying to judge here, I'm just pointing it out. But some of you should adopt the phrase "less is more."
Yes, of course at home women wear makeup. And yes, sometimes it's overdone. But never at my university would every single girl be decked out every day, like I see daily at work. Like how much time does that take? Don't you ever have a bum day? Honestly, I think you would be more beautiful with less makeup.
I wonder if it has anything to do with the more conservative wardrobe. For example, on the bus to work I am the only woman not wearing a head scarf, a skirt to the floor, heels, long sleeves, and a face of makeup. So maybe the makeup is to compensate for not showing lots of skin....
Yes, of course at home women wear makeup. And yes, sometimes it's overdone. But never at my university would every single girl be decked out every day, like I see daily at work. Like how much time does that take? Don't you ever have a bum day? Honestly, I think you would be more beautiful with less makeup.
I wonder if it has anything to do with the more conservative wardrobe. For example, on the bus to work I am the only woman not wearing a head scarf, a skirt to the floor, heels, long sleeves, and a face of makeup. So maybe the makeup is to compensate for not showing lots of skin....
Irbid...dance party, huh??
A few weeks back I went to Don Vito Cafe for a DJ concert. It was so much fun! After hearing all the "locals" say over and over again that Irbid is boring and lame and no fun, I was starting to think that I would spend the next 6 months cooped up in my room every night after work.
Usually here it is hard to see people interacting with the opposite sex. On the street most people stick with their same sex. I see boys and girls in pairs, but usually they are dating or within the protective walls of their University away from the prying eyes of parents and society. But rarely do you see large groups of boys and girls out in public, let alone dancing and grinding. But yes that was the scene at Don Vito.
Strobe lights, bubble machine, 3 DJs, 2 rap groups, break dancers and a shit ton of dancing. Just like a hip-hop show in Chi-town. It was toooo legit! Apparently it does not happen often, but I plan to be at every single one, insha'allah.
Usually here it is hard to see people interacting with the opposite sex. On the street most people stick with their same sex. I see boys and girls in pairs, but usually they are dating or within the protective walls of their University away from the prying eyes of parents and society. But rarely do you see large groups of boys and girls out in public, let alone dancing and grinding. But yes that was the scene at Don Vito.
Strobe lights, bubble machine, 3 DJs, 2 rap groups, break dancers and a shit ton of dancing. Just like a hip-hop show in Chi-town. It was toooo legit! Apparently it does not happen often, but I plan to be at every single one, insha'allah.
The Drinking Culture
Upon deciding to come to Jordan, I realized that I would have to put the party aspect of my lifestyle on hold. I was ok with that. After going to school at Wisconsin for three years I had definitely had my share, and then some, of the party scene. Here in Irbid there is no where to party. No bars, at least none that women can enter. And only 1 or 2 liquor stores, that I have yet to see. And again, that is fine. It's nice to see people be social, dance, and have fun without being intoxicated.
On weekends I have been traveling to Amman, the capital city. A place full of ex-pats, American study-abroad students, and Christians. In Amman there are many opportunities I did not expect to find in a country that is 94% Muslim. Amman is full of bars, cafes (that serve alcohol), and even clubs, although I have yet to go to any.
When setting expectations for coming here, abstaining from drinking alcohol was a large part of that. I told myself I was going to "turn a new leaf". So I am very happy that I spend my weekdays drug-free in Irbid. I can focus on work, learning about the culture, language, and people, and experiencing the more authentic Jordanian lifestyle. I will save my weekends for meeting other trainees, traveling the country, and maybe even partying. I am thankful that I permanently reside in Irbid, because in Amman I think I could continue to live life in almost the same way I was in The USA, which is not why I came to Jordan. I wanted new and challenging experience. I wanted something different. And I got that.
I did document my first beer
abroad though, Amstel.
For 2 JD each!!!!
That's like 8 bus rides, f.y.i.
Like any place around the world there is always an underground scene. Yesterday, I asked some of my students about the drinking habits of people here (outside of class of course). Two of them told me that all the men in their family used to be "alcoholics." They drank every single day. And many of the college-aged men here drink daily. Not sure if it an act of rebellion or just out of curiosity and boredom, probably a bit of both. They said you can find anything here you want- referring to drugs and alcohol - you just have to know where to look. Good thing I don't have that map.
On weekends I have been traveling to Amman, the capital city. A place full of ex-pats, American study-abroad students, and Christians. In Amman there are many opportunities I did not expect to find in a country that is 94% Muslim. Amman is full of bars, cafes (that serve alcohol), and even clubs, although I have yet to go to any.
When setting expectations for coming here, abstaining from drinking alcohol was a large part of that. I told myself I was going to "turn a new leaf". So I am very happy that I spend my weekdays drug-free in Irbid. I can focus on work, learning about the culture, language, and people, and experiencing the more authentic Jordanian lifestyle. I will save my weekends for meeting other trainees, traveling the country, and maybe even partying. I am thankful that I permanently reside in Irbid, because in Amman I think I could continue to live life in almost the same way I was in The USA, which is not why I came to Jordan. I wanted new and challenging experience. I wanted something different. And I got that.
I did document my first beer
abroad though, Amstel.
For 2 JD each!!!!
That's like 8 bus rides, f.y.i.
Like any place around the world there is always an underground scene. Yesterday, I asked some of my students about the drinking habits of people here (outside of class of course). Two of them told me that all the men in their family used to be "alcoholics." They drank every single day. And many of the college-aged men here drink daily. Not sure if it an act of rebellion or just out of curiosity and boredom, probably a bit of both. They said you can find anything here you want- referring to drugs and alcohol - you just have to know where to look. Good thing I don't have that map.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Fair & Lovely.
One of my students sent me this picture.
Frightening, eh?
Reminds me a bit of the late Michael Jackson.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Fro Encounter.
I met another FRO!!!
Seriously we are soooooo hard to come by over here.
And Fatima is Sudanese, not even Jordanian, ha.
Orange Mocha Frappachino!
So yes there are Starbucks here in Jordan and NO I have not been there. And probs won't go there because Nescafe and قهوة عربية are much better anyways.
I was told that everyone here "boycotts" Starbucks every Sunday. Apparently the Starbucks Corp. sends a portion of their Sunday profits to Israel because their chairman, Howard Shultz supports Israel. I heard McDonald's is in on it too??
Still awaiting confirmation on this, need to do some research.
I did find this image though...
Things I Miss.
I miss my friends and family of course.
I miss fresh water. In Chicago we have Lake Michigan one of the Great Lakes. It supplies the entire area of north-east Illinois with clean water. In Madison, my university is situated on an isthmus - between two lakes - Lake Mendota and Lake Menona. Here in Jordan, fresh flowing water is scarce. All drinking water comes out of a plastic bottle or must be boiled first. I miss the convenience of cupping my hands under the sink and taking a sip.
I miss boca burgers and fake chicken. I am getting by here being a vegetarian. I always have enough to eat and everything tastes delicious. But I have less variety. I would pay like 5 JD for a spicy chik'n boca right now!
I miss riding my bicycle. I heard about a group called Cycle Jordan from another trainee. Need to look into it further...
And all my beautiful, funk-a-delic clothes, need to find me a thrift store stat.
I miss fresh water. In Chicago we have Lake Michigan one of the Great Lakes. It supplies the entire area of north-east Illinois with clean water. In Madison, my university is situated on an isthmus - between two lakes - Lake Mendota and Lake Menona. Here in Jordan, fresh flowing water is scarce. All drinking water comes out of a plastic bottle or must be boiled first. I miss the convenience of cupping my hands under the sink and taking a sip.
I miss boca burgers and fake chicken. I am getting by here being a vegetarian. I always have enough to eat and everything tastes delicious. But I have less variety. I would pay like 5 JD for a spicy chik'n boca right now!
I miss riding my bicycle. I heard about a group called Cycle Jordan from another trainee. Need to look into it further...
And all my beautiful, funk-a-delic clothes, need to find me a thrift store stat.
Monday, October 12, 2009
USA 666
Its really interesting to see the American influences here in Jordan. TV, cinema, and music have definitely made a large impact on the younger generation. Everyone my age is a fan of Shakira, just like my friends in Madison (RAGE!), but oddly enough Enrique Iglesias is still house hold name. Personally his music is pretty crappy, but whatev.
Similarly the malls here are just like home. City Mall is complete with ALDO, BCBG, MAC, teenie-bopper stores like Claire's ha, Carrefour - which is an utterly amazing French grocery store, and many upscale shops (that I still can't afford). Everything here seems to be a bit cheaper. For example, gasoline, food, rent, but clothes (at the mall at least) are a tad more expensive. So like the smart, thrifty shopper I am...I will wait till the end of the season to indulge my inner shop-a-holic in the clearance section.
I have been told many, many times that Jordanians love Americans. Which is wonderful to hear, but obviously there are people all over the world who, to put it lightly, disagree with American culture and foreign policy. Many of them residing in the USA. While out hiking in Amman I came across this graffiti.
Hmmmm....I wasn't sure who Begin was, so I had to google him, but Menachem Begin he was the 6th prime minister of Israel, f.y.i. Obviously, I don't support outright profanity and hatred for others, such as this display. And I was a bit shocked to see it. However, I won't deny that I got a good laugh out of "USA 666." Are we really that devilish???
Similarly the malls here are just like home. City Mall is complete with ALDO, BCBG, MAC, teenie-bopper stores like Claire's ha, Carrefour - which is an utterly amazing French grocery store, and many upscale shops (that I still can't afford). Everything here seems to be a bit cheaper. For example, gasoline, food, rent, but clothes (at the mall at least) are a tad more expensive. So like the smart, thrifty shopper I am...I will wait till the end of the season to indulge my inner shop-a-holic in the clearance section.
I have been told many, many times that Jordanians love Americans. Which is wonderful to hear, but obviously there are people all over the world who, to put it lightly, disagree with American culture and foreign policy. Many of them residing in the USA. While out hiking in Amman I came across this graffiti.Hmmmm....I wasn't sure who Begin was, so I had to google him, but Menachem Begin he was the 6th prime minister of Israel, f.y.i. Obviously, I don't support outright profanity and hatred for others, such as this display. And I was a bit shocked to see it. However, I won't deny that I got a good laugh out of "USA 666." Are we really that devilish???
Or NOT!
Ok nevermind. I am NEVER driving again in Jordan!
Of course, a woman runs into our car while I was driving.
WTF?!
FML!
You could say that again.
Of course, a woman runs into our car while I was driving.
WTF?!
FML!
You could say that again.
TA3MYA.
Just went on a lunch run with two of my students to TA3MYA.
The best and cheapest falafel (فلافل) in Irbid. I have been there 2x in the past 24 hours, ha.
The best and cheapest falafel (فلافل) in Irbid. I have been there 2x in the past 24 hours, ha.
Oh and I drove there. Yup that's right, I am now an pro at driving in Jordan. Holla at me.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Ruby.
Tonight I had my reception party with LC Irbid. We went to a hookah lounge/cafe (of course) the main thing to do here in Irbid. As a welcoming gift I got a hookah! Sweeeet. Now I can defenitely have daily shisha, my dream come true.
She's a baby, red, hubly bubbly. And I shall call her Ruby.
Shokran LC IRBID!
She's a baby, red, hubly bubbly. And I shall call her Ruby.
Shokran LC IRBID!
SMILES.
Jordanians LOVE and I mean <3 using smiley faces. Or maybe it's part of the AIESEC culture here....still trying to figure it out....
Never knew I could express myself in so many ways via keyboard symbols. I have already started picking it up, ha.
:)
:p
:|
:(
:@
:D
=D
:-)
:p
:|
:(
:@
:D
=D
:-)
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Al-Huson CDC
This is my classroom. Pretty sweet right?? We have 15 computers, almost reliable wireless internet, AC, and a projector for me to use while teaching the students. Since this center and my employment are entirely funded by USAID...there are USAID From the American People stickers galore!! On every single object in the building. On the computers, desks, folders, and even on the microwave. It looks so comical. I think they are installing the American Flag wallpaper next week, ha.Kanafeh كنافة
Kanafeh (كناف) is a tasty dessert made from shredded filo dough, baked cheese, and pistachios. Looks like shredded wheat cereal, ha! Who would have thought all those would equal a dessert. But god it's good!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Things I love about Jordan - Take 2
1. People treat their friends. Boys buy things for girls, like taxi rides, bus fares, and street food...just to be nice. Wow they must have great moms.
And girls buy things for girls, just because it's Monday, or Tuesday, or because they see something they think you would like. What goes around comes around.
2. Flowers are still used as a courting ritual and it's sweet, not old fashioned or cheesy.
3. There are 10, yes 10 "super" markets within 3 blocks of my house.
4. When people discover you are not from here, they always say "welcome!"
It's magically delicious,
And girls buy things for girls, just because it's Monday, or Tuesday, or because they see something they think you would like. What goes around comes around.
2. Flowers are still used as a courting ritual and it's sweet, not old fashioned or cheesy.
3. There are 10, yes 10 "super" markets within 3 blocks of my house.
4. When people discover you are not from here, they always say "welcome!"
It's magically delicious,
Damn you Britney!
Damn Britney Spears to hell and all those other scantily dressed teeny-boppers on television in the US for giving the world the perception that all young American girls wear tube tops and mini-skirts 24/7. And even to places like high school and church.
Yes world, some ladies are tramps....but most girls save the revealing fits for the bars, the clubs, and the bedroom. At least the chicas in my circle.
We also have the rep for having distant family relationships, which unfortunately is true with some. Happy to be close with mine. So a word to the wise keep your loved ones close.
Yes world, some ladies are tramps....but most girls save the revealing fits for the bars, the clubs, and the bedroom. At least the chicas in my circle.
We also have the rep for having distant family relationships, which unfortunately is true with some. Happy to be close with mine. So a word to the wise keep your loved ones close.
Thoughts about people watching....or not.
In Madison I was fortunate enough to have a balcony over looking the always bustling State Street and Peace Park. I am used to people watching. Not usually as a means to judge others, but to investigate the world around me.
Being very interested in fashion, I tend to look people up and down on the street, gauging their ensembles as I simultaneously brainstorms clothing combinations I could create with my own wardrobe.
In my culture eye-contact is important. It lets others know that you acknowledge their presence and existence. During conversation eye contact is used, both out of respect and as a means to convey to the speaker your attentiveness. I have become completely used to this.
So when I learned today that I should NOT be making eye contact with everyone and anyone I please on the street, in particular men, I was like "well crap, that might be a tough habit to crack."
I guess locking eyes with a guy here gives them the impression that you are trying to holla at them or hook up (which in most cases that's not what is on my mind ha). I will have to keep that in check!
On the other hand....people seem to have no issue with looking my way. Or blurting out the first thing that comes to their mind. Like "Ohhhh my god!" Or "Obama hair." - at least that was my interpretation of his Arabic comment.
Here I almost try to calm my appearance, or play up the hippie/bohemian side of my fashion. I drape myself in long loose fabrics, flowy scarfs, and dark shades, but I still manage to draw an immense amount attention to myself. I know this is partially because of my gender, my somewhat question mark ethnicity, and of course the fro (which I cut and tamed before coming to Jordan ha). Observing the women here, who - at least in public, seem act and dress more conservatively than I am used to, inadvertently makes me feel like I am almost asking for it.
In my sophomore year of college I realized how much I stand out in my own community. Not sure what exactly changed that year; my self-confidence, the way I dress, my attitude, or just the overall way I carry myself...or maybe that was just when I realized it, not sure? But I have come to terms with that and it doesn't really phase me anymore. Although it is funny to hear constant commentary from passers by....young, old, men, women, even little children all seem to find me interesting. Which all and all is cool. Better to be noticed that to go through life invisible.
Still local celeb-ing,
Being very interested in fashion, I tend to look people up and down on the street, gauging their ensembles as I simultaneously brainstorms clothing combinations I could create with my own wardrobe.
In my culture eye-contact is important. It lets others know that you acknowledge their presence and existence. During conversation eye contact is used, both out of respect and as a means to convey to the speaker your attentiveness. I have become completely used to this.
So when I learned today that I should NOT be making eye contact with everyone and anyone I please on the street, in particular men, I was like "well crap, that might be a tough habit to crack."
I guess locking eyes with a guy here gives them the impression that you are trying to holla at them or hook up (which in most cases that's not what is on my mind ha). I will have to keep that in check!
On the other hand....people seem to have no issue with looking my way. Or blurting out the first thing that comes to their mind. Like "Ohhhh my god!" Or "Obama hair." - at least that was my interpretation of his Arabic comment.
Here I almost try to calm my appearance, or play up the hippie/bohemian side of my fashion. I drape myself in long loose fabrics, flowy scarfs, and dark shades, but I still manage to draw an immense amount attention to myself. I know this is partially because of my gender, my somewhat question mark ethnicity, and of course the fro (which I cut and tamed before coming to Jordan ha). Observing the women here, who - at least in public, seem act and dress more conservatively than I am used to, inadvertently makes me feel like I am almost asking for it.
In my sophomore year of college I realized how much I stand out in my own community. Not sure what exactly changed that year; my self-confidence, the way I dress, my attitude, or just the overall way I carry myself...or maybe that was just when I realized it, not sure? But I have come to terms with that and it doesn't really phase me anymore. Although it is funny to hear constant commentary from passers by....young, old, men, women, even little children all seem to find me interesting. Which all and all is cool. Better to be noticed that to go through life invisible.
Still local celeb-ing,
Monday, October 5, 2009
Honorary AIESECer.
Irbid is well known for two things; university students and internet cafes. Soooo many cafes that apparently the city made the Guinness Book.
At one such cafe I had a very interesting conversation with a young woman. She embraces all that encompasses is the mission of AIESEC, but within her Islamic faith. Mainly leading by example and the idea of cultural exchange through personal experience. Honestly I was surprised to learn that she was not in the organization, ha.
She has the dream to go to USA, not only to teach Arabic but to help others understand her culture and religion. In return she hopes to experience American culture first-hand and learn knowledge of more advanced technology and medicine in order to bring it back to her own people here in Jordan.
So often in my studies in anthropology I learn about the "brain-drain" which has become an epidemic all across Africa. Those fortunate enough to have the opportunity to gain higher education, often seek advanced training in the "developed" world, leaving behind their native homeland, culture, and people. I'm not trying to say that an individual should not strive for excellence, but when the entire population of intellectuals immigrate, the country is left with many occupational absences. So it was inspiring to meet a youthful woman determined to return with this knowledge to better her own community.
Furthermore, she has made the choice to take ownership over her actions, because only by changing ones-self can you change the lives of others. She practices the ideals of 'practicing what you preach,' living sustainably, and acting as if we live in a class-less society, by means of treating all humans as equals. I hope to come across more people like her in my months to come.
At one such cafe I had a very interesting conversation with a young woman. She embraces all that encompasses is the mission of AIESEC, but within her Islamic faith. Mainly leading by example and the idea of cultural exchange through personal experience. Honestly I was surprised to learn that she was not in the organization, ha.
She has the dream to go to USA, not only to teach Arabic but to help others understand her culture and religion. In return she hopes to experience American culture first-hand and learn knowledge of more advanced technology and medicine in order to bring it back to her own people here in Jordan.
So often in my studies in anthropology I learn about the "brain-drain" which has become an epidemic all across Africa. Those fortunate enough to have the opportunity to gain higher education, often seek advanced training in the "developed" world, leaving behind their native homeland, culture, and people. I'm not trying to say that an individual should not strive for excellence, but when the entire population of intellectuals immigrate, the country is left with many occupational absences. So it was inspiring to meet a youthful woman determined to return with this knowledge to better her own community.
Furthermore, she has made the choice to take ownership over her actions, because only by changing ones-self can you change the lives of others. She practices the ideals of 'practicing what you preach,' living sustainably, and acting as if we live in a class-less society, by means of treating all humans as equals. I hope to come across more people like her in my months to come.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Oh GWB, he is always pooping on America.
While searching, I came across this. The new Iraqi Dinar....obviously satirical but none the less the ugly face of America abroad.
Things I love about Jordan Take 1
1. The JD, just cooler and prettier than the USD.
<----- 1JD 2. Falafel - BIG sandwich only 60 piasters. Like 6/10th JD aka cheap cheap! And way better then the stuff at Med Cafe!
3. DVDs galore. 6 new release DVDs and even ones still in American theaters, so boot-legged ha. I got; I love you man, The Ugly Truth, The Hangover, SlumdogMillionaire, MILK, and Bruno...all together only 5JD
4. Cigarettes. Marlboro lights 1JD.
Life is good.
<----- 1JD 2. Falafel - BIG sandwich only 60 piasters. Like 6/10th JD aka cheap cheap! And way better then the stuff at Med Cafe!
3. DVDs galore. 6 new release DVDs and even ones still in American theaters, so boot-legged ha. I got; I love you man, The Ugly Truth, The Hangover, SlumdogMillionaire, MILK, and Bruno...all together only 5JD
4. Cigarettes. Marlboro lights 1JD.
Life is good.
Wow no joke these kids really don't know English!
Day #1 of work at Al Huson CDC (Career Development Center). The center is completely state of the art. 15 computers in the computer room, a conference room, receptionist desk, and two offices for the directors. We have internet, a kitchenette, and a boat load of Nescafe so in this department we are good to go! The Al Huson University itself, is quite small, about 5,000 students all packed into a campus composed of 5 buildings. It is quaint but beautiful. Littered with olive trees, large open corridors, and a youthful student body, I think it will become a very comfortable place to work.
Praise Allah for the amazing staff of professors, otherwise I would have been utterly screwed. At first thought I assumed that today, (being my first day of work) would be full of enthralling tasks like introductions, training, getting situated and the like. But NO! I arrived to work around 9:45am and my students showed up ready to go at 10:30am although class didn't even begin till 11:00am. Holy crap was I not expecting that. I currently have a 1 page outline for a 3-6 month course, no books, no workspace, and about zero knowledge of teaching English...yikes this job is going to be a challenge.
Ok ok so I know I sound a bit freaked out (which honestly I am), but seriously I am really excited for this opportunity. I get to make my own curriculum and classroom and have A LOT of freedom and independence. Only problem is...my students have already graduated from a 2 year program and have various degrees in engineering, but they have absolutely no English background. Today in class I was like "Hello, my name is Trisha or Batrisha" and the were like "uuuughhhhhh wtf are you saying strange foreign lady with an afro!"
So just a small hurdle to jump and we will be speaking English in no time. So we did introductions today, to the best of our abilities. Then the Al Huson professors stepped in and began translating and explaining everything I said in Arabic. I think I will need a permanent translator in the classroom for at least the next few weeks. Praise Allah that the weekend in the Arab world is Friday and Saturday, because now I have 2 days to prepare before my next class. Deep breath, it's going to take a few weeks to get the ball rolling, but the students are dedicated and so am I. I mean it;s not like their English could get any worse...we can only move forward.
All in all my end goal is to in 3 months, maybe longer if needed, turn 21 students with no English training, into engineering supervisors, ready to go on site, communicate in English with people in an international setting. I also have to teach etiquette, proper manners and body language, self-grooming and attire, oh yeah and how to read and write.
Ohhhh and p.s. all my students are male. And all my colleagues are male. Surprise, surprise.
Praise Allah for the amazing staff of professors, otherwise I would have been utterly screwed. At first thought I assumed that today, (being my first day of work) would be full of enthralling tasks like introductions, training, getting situated and the like. But NO! I arrived to work around 9:45am and my students showed up ready to go at 10:30am although class didn't even begin till 11:00am. Holy crap was I not expecting that. I currently have a 1 page outline for a 3-6 month course, no books, no workspace, and about zero knowledge of teaching English...yikes this job is going to be a challenge.
Ok ok so I know I sound a bit freaked out (which honestly I am), but seriously I am really excited for this opportunity. I get to make my own curriculum and classroom and have A LOT of freedom and independence. Only problem is...my students have already graduated from a 2 year program and have various degrees in engineering, but they have absolutely no English background. Today in class I was like "Hello, my name is Trisha or Batrisha" and the were like "uuuughhhhhh wtf are you saying strange foreign lady with an afro!"
So just a small hurdle to jump and we will be speaking English in no time. So we did introductions today, to the best of our abilities. Then the Al Huson professors stepped in and began translating and explaining everything I said in Arabic. I think I will need a permanent translator in the classroom for at least the next few weeks. Praise Allah that the weekend in the Arab world is Friday and Saturday, because now I have 2 days to prepare before my next class. Deep breath, it's going to take a few weeks to get the ball rolling, but the students are dedicated and so am I. I mean it;s not like their English could get any worse...we can only move forward.
All in all my end goal is to in 3 months, maybe longer if needed, turn 21 students with no English training, into engineering supervisors, ready to go on site, communicate in English with people in an international setting. I also have to teach etiquette, proper manners and body language, self-grooming and attire, oh yeah and how to read and write.
Ohhhh and p.s. all my students are male. And all my colleagues are male. Surprise, surprise.
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