Where to begin… Well, as many of you already know, I’m studying abroad this coming semester in the United Arab Emirate of Dubai at The American University of Dubai (AUD). By ‘this coming semester’, I really mean in just over two weeks. My departure is quickly catching up with me and I’m beginning to realize how much I haven’t done yet! There’s so much packing and preparation to be had! Speaking of which, I’m not even sure I have my luggage yet.
I’m going to the Middle East on scholarship provided by the William Jefferson Clinton foundation. I will be taking six courses (18 credit hours) ranging from Arabic I to Introduction to Islam. Through the –successful- completion of these classes, I’ll be granted with my certification in Middle Eastern Studies. I’m not sure exactly how I’ll be using this certification in the future yet, but I’m sure it’ll come in handy one of these days.
Many of you have already inquired about why I chose the location I did to study abroad in and, in more colorful terms, what exactly was I thinking when I chose it. After prayerful consideration and numerous hours of research, I knew that I wanted to study somewhere that I probably wouldn’t travel to otherwise. With the conflicts presently occurring over many parts of the Middle East, there is no way I would ever see much of it unless I was a diehard journalist (emphasis on the die) or in the military. Dubai is way out of my price range as far as tuition goes, so it was either get the scholarship or find somewhere else to reside. God proved faithful, once again, and He has opened every door leading up to this grand adventure.
No, I’m not going to convert to Islam. No, I’m not going to run off with some rich sheikh (sorry, Dad). No, I’m not going to die. Dubai is considered one of the safest travel locations in the Middle East and is well approved by partnering universities worldwide. You can find out more information about AUD itself at their website: http://www.aud.edu.
As I prepare to for my three and a half month stay in Dubai, all I can ask for is you support and prayers! Being in a Muslim dominated society, away from home, and with a heavy academic load, I can only imagine the obstacles awaiting me. I stand firm in knowing that I’m permitted to be there for a reason and that my Lord will keep me safe! He provides above and beyond and my concern is more so for my parents! Having a slightly unruly gypsy for a daughter is no easy task, I’m sure.
Jesus calls us to love one another, whether here at home or overseas. He does not say “only love someone if they believe the same things as you and live next door.” We’re called to just love errbody! I’m ecstatic to learn all I can about the peoples of the Middle East and I look forward to sharing as many adventures with all of you as I can. Galatians 5:6 talks about “faith expressing itself through love” and what better testament of that verse then this trip.
The semester officially ends on December 21st, so I will do my best to be home by Christmas.
You all mean so much to me and I’m so incredibly grateful for this opportunity.
Stay in touch,
<3 Chelci
1 comments:
I'm so proud/sad/angry of/with you!!! You will definitely be in our prayers! How exciting that you have this opportunity! I'll see you Sunday!
Love Ya!
Laura a.k.a your adopted mom, Lady Starbucks... and lots more ;0)
Post a Comment