The Joys of Listening

It's hard to believe I have been in Egypt for a month already.  I've begun the process of cultural adjustment in earnest now, in and out of classes.  It is almost as though I have to adjust to two cultures though, because on-campus culture is so different than off-campus culture.  I try to balance school commitments with adventuring off campus.  Trying to navigate and understand these new environments has changed my perspective of home in a number of ways, especially in regards to issues of race, class, and gender.  

The most exciting aspect of this experience for me has been listening and observing.  I've witnessed the issues of race, class, politics, and gender play out in and outside of the classroom.  Everyone has an opinion about what Egypt is and what it should be.  When I listen to these debates however, I am learning about more than the issues themselves, I am also learning about the values and attitudes of everyday Egyptians.  Between the lines of the arguments, discussions and debates I have also witnessed what I can only describe as an unconquerable humor.  No matter what the issue is, however hot the debate, there is always room among the Egyptians for jokes and dry remarks. 

A City of Chaos and Calm

I've been in Egypt for about a week and a half, and it alternately feels completely surreal and exciting. As a group, the international students at the American University in Cairo have gone to the Old Cairo, Al Moez Street, Al Azhar Park and the Pyramids. I can see a common pattern in all the international students, and it is boldness. They are a group of people who want to adventure and it takes me a moment to realize that I'm among them. I am also bold! We've had the first classes and although they've just begun I am certain I'm going to learn a lot here, especially Arabic.  My biggest challenge will be overcoming my shyness to practice speaking.  The biggest change I've noticed is the mentality and general atmosphere on campus. Maybe it's the warmth of the sun, but everyone is very relaxed, and although students work hard, there is a general sense of calm. It's a very stark contrast to the style of driving and constant movement and speed of the city itself. Drivers, pedestrians, and animals are everywhere in the city, going every which way with seemingly little caution. It's both terrifying and exhilarating to participate in. Cairo is by far the most alive and vibrant city I could ever imagine.