Positive Observations of the Jordanian Student

My CIEE college counterparts consist of students from many U.S. states and a few parts of the world.  Most of us have the same goal of learning Arabic and becoming versed in U.S diplomatic relations with the Middle East.  More than half of the students live in a home-stay residence like mine while the other half live in apartments.  This type of living is like the high school experience where one spends most of his time at school and then returns to his house after school and activities before curfew.

Many of my college counterparts in my host country are students ranging from Jordanians to Asians to Europeans and other people from Islamic states.  Although I do not take classes with University of Jordan students, my observations have indicated that they are very academic-focused but also sociable and willing to make new friends.

University of Jordan students who are Jordanian seem to be very focused on academics, but their religion and family is also very important to them.  Many of them return to their homes once classes have finished in order to spend time with their family instead of hanging out with friends at night.  The day between classes is usually reserved for hanging out with friends and doing homework.  Once the day ends and classes are over, the students return to their homes, which are reserved for family time. 

I respect this kind of living, which centers on family.  It is from the family that I see Jordanian culture draw its strength and identity, which is opposite to Americans in today's times.  Many Americans go out into the world and seek a purpose in their work when the purpose figuratively (and literally) emanates from one's family.  Although many Jordanians also study abroad and live abroad, there is always a direct connection back to the family.  Education and work are very important to Jordanians, but it does not come at the expense and sacrifice of one's family.  This is something that I have learned thus far in Jordan.