“My Name is Dayton. I have a Bachelor’s in Economics, and I participated in the Media and Journalism internship at the Excellence Center in Palestine.
During my time at the Excellence Center, I toured the city of Hebron. I was able to see many important places in the city as well as meet many members of the media, the Chamber of Commerce, the Municipal government, Law, and activists. I also had the opportunity to volunteer in English language classes held at the center for Palestinian youth and take Ammiyya Arabic classes myself. My Arabic classes were rigorous, engaging, and a lot of fun! My listening and reading comprehension greatly improved during my time at the center. I also developed the rudiments of conversation skills that I hope to build upon in the future.
The Center is a very warm and inviting environment. I was able to meet volunteers from around the world, as well as many Palestinians from the community of Hebron. People were full of advice about how to make the most of my internship and how best to navigate the West Bank and Hebron. During my stay, I participated in every site visit that was made available to me. I visited the Ibrahim Mosque, a Russian Orthodox Church, a Kafiyeh Factory, a School for the Blind, A radio station, a TV station, the Old City, and H2. I was also able to visit other cities in the West Bank, such as Ramallah, Bethlehem, Jericho, and Nablus.
Living in Hebron was a very pleasant experience. The People are very curious, friendly, and generous. People off the street would invite me to have dinner with them or just to strike up a conversation. I never worried about feeling unsafe. If ever I crossed the street, it was because I didn’t want to accept a gift of coffee or some sweets! I most enjoyed and respected the resilient spirit of the Palestinian people, and that despite the daily reality of the Occupation, every person that I met was positive about their future.
My Favorite experience in the West Bank was all of it! I was able to learn so much not just about Ammiyya Arabic, or Arabic, or Palestinian history, but about world history. My time in the West Bank and in Hebron has left a lasting impression that will affect where I travel and how I live for some time. I would recommend the Excellence Center to anyone that wanted to learn more or who wanted an exciting experience.
Pros
- Learn arabic
- Kind staff
- Welcoming community
Cons
- Security and border control at the airport”
by: Dayton
