Hometown: Amman, Jordan
Nationality: Jordanian
Previous Institution: Ahliyyah School for Girls
Majors/Minors: Double Major in Communication and Media Studies and Comparative Literary and Cultural Studies with a minor in International Management
Class of: 2015
Which universities and/or schools have you attended in the past?
The Ahliyyah School for Girls, class of 2011.
What is your international background?
I have family all over the world, and I travel a lot with my family.
How did you hear about Franklin University Switzerland, and why have you chosen to study here?
I heard about FUS from both my college counselor and my cousin who went to a boarding school in Switzerland. I decided to come here because I was very interested in the programs, the small community and the location. It is actually funny because I only noticed the Academic Travel program after everything else.
What is your major and why have you chosen this field of study? Is there a particular subject within this field that you find especially fascinating?
I’m doing a double major in Communication and Media Studies and Comparative Literary and Cultural Studies with a minor in International Management. I have chosen those fields because I am interested in the relationship between culture and media. I am passionate about cultural issues, and I also believe that media, technology and modern communication are reconstructing and creating new paradigms for overcoming social justice and cultural issues.
Why do you think a student who is interested in your major might want to choose Franklin University Switzerland?
Franklin provides both theoretical and experiential learning. It goes beyond the classroom. Having the ability to look around us and see where media exists and where cultural issues arise is an honor and opportunity not everyone has so thoroughly.
Which special features/differences do you see in your classes in comparison with other institutions (schools or universities) where you may have studied previously?
My school was actually very similar to Franklin in its small size, close knit community, good relations with the faculty, and constant encouragement for being active on campus.
What has been your favorite Academic Travel course, and why?
My favorite Academic Travel was the Turkey travel. The hybrid of East and West and the mix between European and Middle Eastern culture was absolutely amazing. We got to see modern day Turkey as well as ancient Ottoman Turkey. The food was incredible, and I guess, for me, it reminded me of home, which was very nice. Apart from that, having a tour guide, Burcu, who was very aware of issues facing Turkey today, made us feel very integrated rather than just outsiders and tourists.
If you have already had this opportunity, please tell us more about any internships/study abroad programs you have done.
During the summer of 2014, I interned at the Association of Queen Rania Award for Excellence in Education. The Association is a royal initiative of their Majesties King Abdullah and Queen Rania founded in 2005. It aims to honor educators, motivate the distinguished amongst them, disseminate the culture of excellence and creativity, and contribute to knowledge creation through various programs. During my internship, I worked at the communications department on several programs and activities, including a social media plan, a strategic communication plan, research and creation of a timeline for world teacher’s day, participation in PR brainstorming sessions, and meetings and commentary, along with other tasks as they arose.
What are your general or specific career goals? How do you think studying at Franklin will help you achieve these goals?
I am extremely passionate about the field of education and particularly in education reform in Jordan and the Middle East. I hope to work in one of the education initiatives in Jordan, then hopefully branch out and start my own. I believe that every person has a mission and duty towards their community, and mine is in education and improving the educational system in Jordan for future generations.
Franklin provides me with a multidisciplinary and multicultural experience, which, in return, is very important because it allows for further exposure, better understanding and higher awareness. Franklin allowed me to strive to create goals; hence, I genuinely and truly think that an atmosphere which encourages goal creation is also one that provides the means to do so, whether through experience with the Office of Student Life, Arab Club or Academic Mentorship, Franklin empowered me to get out of my comfort zone, try, and learn.
What do you like best about the campus or university?
It’s comfortable, yet also forces you out of your comfort zone. It’s the multidimensional comfort where you feel at home by stepping out and doing things you’ve never done or thought you’d do before (in a positive way, of course).
What are your first impressions of the university?
It’s lively, filled with a lot of enthusiastic people and has a strong support system.
What are you passionate about beyond university extracurricular activities?
Going back to a previous question, I am passionate about educational reform, and improving education systems around the world. I believe that the only way a society can improve and develop is through working on the base and core, which, in my opinion, is education.
What do you do for relaxation/recreation?
To answer this honestly, I will have to say I love being on the run. Relaxation is not really existent for me right now, but I do enjoy dinners and boat rides with friends.
Which clubs or activities are you involved in on campus and why those?
I’m the President of the Arab Club. I believe in cross-cultural awareness and understanding. Being the President of the Arab Club really helps me try to represent the Arab world in a beautiful way which will hopefully have a positive impact on the Franklin community.
What tips would you give to someone coming to Franklin University Switzerland from your home region?
Be you, but be open. Stick to your roots, but let yourself grow beyond those roots. Put yourself out there and immerse yourself in the Franklin culture of self-discovery.
Is there any fun fact you wish you knew before you came to Franklin University Switzerland?
That it’s not flat around Sorengo!
What surprised you most about Franklin?
I was surprised by how easy it is to get involved. Often times, this is not the case, especially in university campuses. However, here it is encouraged and for me, almost inevitable. I couldn’t see myself on a campus where I am not involved and part of programs.
Tell us about an important lesson or an epiphany you have had during your time here.
I learned about my passions. I never thought I would be a person with a cause and a purpose, but Franklin helped me find mine and strive in all possible ways to expand my horizons and eventually serve my cause.
Describe your typical day here at Franklin.
Any and every day has to start with coffee. I do a bit of homework, then go to classes and have lunch at the dining hall between classes. Once done, go back home to do some work and cook dinner with my roommate (procrastination kicks in sometimes).