And I'm Off!

Marhaban!

In just a few short days I will be heading to the United Arab Emirates to study at the American University of Sharjah for the Spring 2014 semester. Through this blog I hope to share with you my experiences abroad, the lessons I learn, and the culture I observe.

My name is Shannon Cook and I am a junior at American University in Washington, DC majoring in International Studies with a focus on the Middle East and International Economics, and minoring in Arab Studies. In the future I wish to go into international trade or diplomacy between the United States and the Middle East, specifically the Persian Gulf.

Why the Persian Gulf you ask? For one thing, it has a long, fascinating history. In terms of economics of the Middle East, the Persian Gulf is home to some of the strongest economies in the region with Qatar having the second highest GDP per capita in the world, and Saudi Arabia and the UAE being the two largest Arab economies. While most of these countries have grown economically because of oil and natural gas, they are all taking steps to diversify their economies. In addition, the rapid economic growth partnered with conservative Muslim society make for some interesting politics. And of course, on the other side of the Gulf lies Iran, a fascinating country in itself that has had some very strained relations with the Arab monarchies. I could go on forever I’m sure but I think you get the point – the Persian Gulf fascinates me!

When I first thought about study abroad I thought I would go to Jordan or Morocco to focus on studying the Arabic language but all that changed a year ago when I interned at the National US-Arab Chamber of Commerce (NUSACC) in Washington, DC. At that point, I still had no idea what I wanted to do with my degree, but interning at NUSACC awoke a strong interest in international trade and economics in me. And with the UAE being the second largest economy in the Arab world after Saudi Arabia, studying abroad there makes perfect sense for me.

Within the UAE, Sharjah is one of seven emirates and the emirate is ruled by the Al Qasimi family. The city of Sharjah, which is the capital of the overall emirate, is the third largest city in the country (after Abu Dhabi and Dubai). This year, Sharjah was named the Islamic Cultural Capital by the OIC so I am excited to have a chance to go to some of the programs and events held in the city!

At the American University of Sharjah (AUS) I will be taking a full load of courses on the Middle East and economics. While I am staying in the UAE I plan on soaking up as much history as I can, gaining a better understanding for the culture, and improving my Arabic language skills.

I cannot wait to spend the next few months in the UAE! And while I am extremely excited about this trip I am also nervous. This will be my first time out of the United States, as well as my first time on an airplane. Until then, I will be saying good-bye to my family and finishing up some last minute packing as I watch my cat stare at me sadly with that look of betrayal for leaving her once again.