When it comes to going abroad, there is very little that excites me more than being able to share experiences with new people, as well as being immersed in a completely different culture and setting than that of the one I am used to and comfortable with within the United States. Being in Qatar for the past week, these instances have not only displayed themselves on various occasions but also allowed me to gain a brand new insight into what it truly means to ?go global? and understand more about the people and cultures that make up the world around us. One instance that comes to mind, is that of the dune-bashing that I got to experience in the desert as well as the food and culture that was displayed throughout the entirety of the overnight stay. With the instance of dune-bashing, it became clear to me that I was in for quite the ride as we began right away by going over various dunes and getting a thrill unlike any I?ve had before. Not only was this experience incredible, but also the food we got to experience that night and the individuals who so graciously prepared it for us. They were kind and excited to help as I moved throughout the line getting plentiful amounts of dishes, some of which looked familiar and others that I had never laid eyes on, but was excited to try. I realized early on that I had come into the trip with many misconceptions about Qatar?s culture, one of which was the way that I would be treated by the locals, but it turns out that everyone seems to be respectful and courteous, as long as I treat them with the same amount of respect and courtesy that they show to me. Another piece of culture that I found insightful, was that of the Museum of Islamic Art which allowed me to open my mind to incredible artifacts and displays such as various formats of the Qur?an and the textiles that showed Arabic language and history dating back hundreds of years. With each piece the museum offered, I found I was gaining more information about Qatar?s history, and the importance that Islam has in the hearts and minds of its citizens. I am so grateful to be able to travel to such an interesting country and discover more about the culture and global impact that Qatar has to offer to not only its citizens but students and global leaders as well. I would also like to thank CIBS for all of their hard work and constant diligence that allows students like me to travel the world and have experiences like those I have shared that will certainly last a lifetime.
