One of the Best Experiences of My Life September 19, 2022

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The program involves intensive lectures and at times lengthy reading but not overwhelming by any stretch of the imagination. While coursework does take time outside of class, there is still a lot of time for students to socialize and further explore Amman.

On-site administration of your program

The administrators at SIT Jordan are beyond exceptional; they go above and beyond for students in all aspects of the program. They truly care about all of the students and are a huge reason for the program's success.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I had a wonderful host family, and despite prior apprehension about living with a host family, I had a great experience. My host family really felt like a family to me for lack of better phrasing, and my Arabic language skills improved immeasurably through our interactions. I felt welcomed and supported, and I learned so much from our interactions. Overall, the homestay experience really made SIT Jordan stand out and I completely recommend the homestay experience for any prospective students seeking to study abroad, whether in Jordan or elsewhere.

Jordanian dishes are different than typical American fare - prepare for lots of rice, bread, chicken, and lamb - but it's all wonderful. You will not get better hummus or olive oil anywhere in the world, and if you get homesick for American cuisine, there are lots of fast food restaurants in Amman, with options ranging from McDonalds to Italian to Indian to Filipino food!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

As long as you come onto the program with an open mind and an appreciation for learning, you will forge a connection with the local culture and people that cannot be forged any other way than living in another culture. Jordanians are very warm and welcoming, and as long as you approach cultural differences with grace and a willingness to learn, people will extend you the same courtesies.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The program administration was very helpful in responding to any student health concerns, whether it be Covid, which a few students contracted while in Jordan, or dental issues, like myself.

I felt very safe most of the time I was in Jordan, though walking on certain streets in parts of downtown at night could be unsettling, as it is in any major city. In general, Jordanian traffic safety isn't highly prioritized, so always look both ways and once again before crossing the street. Crosswalks are suggestions at best! Additionally, yellow taxis can be dicey at night, and for female foreigners especially, it's important to be on guard. Always have your phone on you and be prepared to ask them to stop and exit early if necessary. Most, if not all, of the female students had a 'creepy taxi' encounter.

As someone who ended up on SIT Jordan: Geopolitics, International Relations and the Future of the Middle East completely by accident as a result of multiple covid cancellations of prior study abroad programs, I can say with full confidence that I can't imagine having gone anywhere else and that more than that, I have no regrets about not having gone somewhere else. I made friends and had experiences that I never would have had on the programs that were cancelled. I went to a region of the world that most Americans will never get a chance to visit, let alone live in for nearly 4 months, and I am so grateful to have had that opportunity.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Food is generally inexpensive, costs rack up more on transportation - you receive a stipend for transportation too and from class every day, which is typically by taxi, but if you want to go out with friends after class that's on your own bank account.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

I knew no Arabic going into the program, but living with a host family is a huge part of the program, and English levels vary widely among family members. You will speak at least some Arabic on a daily basis, and you pick up little phrases pretty fast.

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• Host Family

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• Host Family

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• Americans

• People/Friendships
• Staff
• Culture/Internship Experience

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The Academic or Linguist