Speak Arabic: How Arabic Supports John’s Aerospace Path

For John, a sophomore from Kansas, the decision to study Arabic was a calculated risk that has paid off in many ways. Majoring in Aerospace Engineering and pursuing minors in computer science and MENAS (Middle Eastern and North African Studies) with a concentration in Arabic at the Georgia Institute of Technology, John is pursuing a path where his passion for language and culture intersects with technology.

Before we delve deeper into John's journey, let's hear directly from him about the impact of learning Arabic:

John (from video, explaining his journey): "[Learning Arabic] seemed like an opportunity that was really unique and valuable, and I knew that I had to take advantage of it. What kept me coming back, though, was the community that I built there, but also the language and the culture that I was learning. I felt that taking a short-term risk of doing something different, like taking Arabic, was more worth being able to come back and take one of the more commonly taught languages in the future.”

A Unique Path to Engineering

John began learning Arabic when he was just 14, during his freshman year of high school. While most of his friends chose Spanish or French, the different language on the course catalog caught his eye. "I didn’t know much about the language, region, or culture, but that mystery made it feel unique and exciting," he recalls. What started as pure curiosity quickly grew into a genuine passion, fueled by the incredible people, rich culture, and vibrant community he encountered.

Continuing his studies at the university level presented a new set of challenges and rewards. While assignments became more common, John found himself feeling more invested and interested than ever before. "At Georgia Tech, studying Arabic felt like I was working toward something far greater than the next assignment or class period," he explains. His freshman year course was a complete study of the language, featuring everything from vocabulary practice and movie reviews to recordings of conversations with peers.

Community and Real-World Impact

Being in Atlanta and at a large university allowed John to truly implement his skills in his environment. He often took the opportunity to approach and speak with other Arabic-speaking students he heard around campus.

John (on real-world usage): "The surprise and excitement on their faces when I started speaking Arabic always made the interactions worthwhile. These friendly exchanges not only boosted my confidence but also motivated me to keep improving my language abilities. This opportunity to have real usage and impact of my studies was rewarding."

In the classroom, the conversational approach fostered a community. As the only student in his class without Middle Eastern or Arab heritage, John initially felt somewhat out of place. However, the friendships he developed with classmates from diverse backgrounds made the experience incredibly welcoming and inclusive, allowing him to broaden his perspectives.

The QFI Award: An Important Recognition

To continue his demanding Arabic coursework alongside his engineering major, John sought and received the QFI First-Year University Award. He recognized that without this support, choosing to study Arabic would have been a much harder decision. The award provided more than just financial assistance; it offered important recognition of his academic path.

John (from video, on the QFI Award): “Receiving the QFI First Year University Award helps my ability to continue Arabic learning at the university level because it showed me that there are opportunities to continue learning Arabic and that would be recognized.”

John also credits his professors for his success, finding his classes to be very interactive and conversational. Their investment in his understanding and willingness to provide extra help encouraged him to succeed. He recalls one specific instance where his professor noticed he was struggling with certain conjugation patterns and set up a meeting for extra practice, which was helpful.

The Intersection of Arabic and Aerospace

John's most exciting prospect lies in the intersection of his two main fields of study: Arabic and aerospace engineering. He is aware of the growing presence of Arabic-speaking countries in the aerospace industry, including expanding space programs and commercial air developments.

John (from video, on his future): “I'm really excited for the intersection between my studies in Arabic and aerospace engineering. The growth in the Arab world and community with the larger world in the aerospace industry is great to see and there's lots of growth that is continuing.”

John plans to improve his abilities and understanding of the region in an immersive, real-world setting by traveling to Arabic-speaking countries. For him, the language is a useful professional tool that will open doors in a rapidly expanding global sector. As he confidently states, "I can confidently say that it was the right choice, and I plan to continue studying.”

Begin Your Journey to Speak Arabic

John's journey showcases the benefits of Arabic and how it can create new academic, personal, and professional opportunities. Now it's your turn to discover them.

Your journey to speak Arabic starts here. Just like John, you can find the right support to help you achieve your language goals. Imagine where Arabic could take you – from connections to career opportunities across the Arab world.

Take the first step today by exploring these opportunities designed to help you succeed:

• Summer Scholar Awards for high school students: Launch your Arabic journey through intensive language courses.
• First-Year University Awards: Continue building your skills in college-level Arabic studies.

Your Arabic journey awaits. Start your story today!