SIT Study Abroad: Jordan: Counseling & Humanitarian Action

My time abroad was truly an unforgettable experience, both academically and personally. Dr. Ashraf was an academic guide and professor who made learning enjoyable and manageable. His approach to coursework was well-balanced, ensuring we had time to for our personal and social life while still excelling in our studies. He encouraged us to stay engaged and participate throughout the classes. He added basic Arabic lessons and explained the local customs. Dr. Ashraf and Farah are incredibly caring and approachable individuals. I always felt comfortable reaching out to them for support, and I’m truly grateful for their kindness. Living with my host family was another unforgettable part of the experience. They welcomed me with open arms and made me feel at home from day one. My host mom, in particular, was exceptionally kind and took the time to teach me Arabic, which was incredibly helpful. My host siblings were kind and energetic. I also had the opportunity to make some great friends, and we shared many memorable moments together. As part of my internship, I gained hands-on experience in applying psychological principles to real-life crisis situations. The training I received allowed me to work with different mental health issues and broadened my understanding of the field. I would definitely recommend this experience.

I absolutely loved my time in Jordan and my experience with SIT. The program director is one of the most accomplished and wise people I have ever met. He was a pleasure to work with. I was able to intern with IFH, an organization that helps refugee families with health services of all kinds. I learned a bit of arabic. I saw many different historical and natural sites and rode a camel. I also integrated myself into the culture and community every day. I stayed with a host family, who helped me learn the local ways in Amman, as well as went to festivals, explored town and many coffee shops, bought from local vendors, joined a running club, met international students, played pickleball, and attended multiple worship services. Perhaps my favorite part of this study abroad was learning about different cultures and religions. I had a lovely view into the Muslim faith and learned the Arab history of the middle east area in a new way. I grew as an individual and as a citizen of earth and of the United States. I am forever grateful for the people I acquainted and the things I experienced.

I found this study abroad program to be an invaluable experience that I can carry over to both my academic and professional endeavors. It also reinforced my values of inclusivity and compassion, encouraging me to explore more into humanitarian action as a field and even intern with other non-profit organizations in the future. Our academic advisor, Dr. Ashraf Alqudah, was an amazing mentor; very knowledgeable, accommodating, and kind. Amman as a city was also such a cool experience. It was my first time in the region so I loved becoming familiar with the local customs and people. One thing that I think could have been better though was the internship placement. Many of my peers had great placements, but for me personally I wish it was more structured and that there was a translator since many of the staff only spoke Arabic.