Reasons to do an internship in Palestine: Whether you’re in school studying political science, religion, women’s studies, Arabic, or just have an interest in Palestine, there is truly no better way to increase your knowledge and understanding than by actually coming to Palestine and observing the culture for yourself.

The fields of study that intertwine with the culture here are not limited to those above; observing any culture different from one’s home can prove to be an edifying experience from both an academic standpoint and on a personal level.

Palestine makes for a unique blend in many regards in that the political landscape is quite complex; not only is the culture inextricably woven with Islam (a tradition that has deep roots and history of its own), but in this particular Middle Eastern locale, the culture is also heavily impacted by interactions with Israel. But politics aside, the streets are wrought with history, culture, and life, transcending the dimensions of purely educational knowledge and making Palestine a place where you can grow as an individual.:

But politics aside, the streets are wrought with history, culture, and life, transcending the dimensions of purely educational knowledge and making Palestine a place where you can grow as an individual.:

Academic Benefits

Students young and old, whether coming from an academic institution or otherwise, can find their needs met by interning in Palestine. For students of Arabic or political science, the correlation may seem more obvious, as Palestinians speak Arabic and the complex political situation of this region is widely known around the world.

Students in other arenas such as religion or women’s or gender studies will also find this region to be quite educational in getting a firsthand view of the everyday workings of Islam and observance of Islamic holidays, and the role of women and feminism in an Islamic culture.

Other students have come from fields of anthropology, history, sociology, or teaching, but one can come from essentially any field, even the creative arts, and find it to be a unique supplement to their education. There is graffiti and street art all over the place; there is a refugee theatre that produces dramatic works in Jenin; one can find authentic Middle Eastern cuisine whether staying with a host family or exploring local restaurants. There is something for everyone here, and you may find yourself learning about a different field of study than you anticipated.

Personal Benefits

Coming to the Middle East for a first timer is also an illuminating experience in broadening one’s perspective of the world and adopting a global mindset. You will build independence, cultural awareness, and empathy. 

At this time, traveling to Palestine requires travel through Israel so even if you are already proficient in Arabic there will likely be language barriers with Hebrew. You will learn to rely on the kindness of strangers in navigating a foreign country and learn to think on your feet and advocate for yourself, whether you get the chance to stay in a hostel or most certainly have to utilize public transportation.

We all hear about other countries and cultures on the news, usually for reasons of something going wrong or for some conflict, but it is difficult to understand without stepping into that culture. One can choose to visit Palestine, but doing an internship offers a greater opportunity to step into the culture, interact with children and families, and put faces and names to the people we so often hear about on the nightly news.

In the end, there is only so much that can be expressed in text or even directly from the mouth of someone who completed their internship in Palestine, for every individual who comes here has a unique experience.

So in addition to being a potential talking point on a resume for the wealth of knowledge that will certainly be accrued during your time in Palestine, it is truly a richly rewarding experience that you can carry with you back to your home country in something as simple as having increased empathy and awareness towards those around you.

The big question you might ask yourself is, “Why teach English abroad? why do an internship in Palestine? Why Palestine?” And for that, there are a few important reasons as to why it is well worth it.

Learn to speak Arabic

You can learn to speak Arabic, which is often considered a rare trait in westerners, outside the middle east. Knowing Spanish or French as a second language may open many doors for a lot of people, but being able to speak Arabic will grant a wealth of opportunities for your future. Especially for a career in teaching, it may well lead to rewarding chances to help teach immigrants or refugees who are trying to start in a new life in a strange country. 

Experience in teaching English

Secondly, and just as important, experience. Experience in teaching English to people who come from an entirely different culture. There are many different aspects of teaching that you will encounter here in Hebron.

From working together with other teachers to create a fun and engaging lesson plan, to one-on-one classes with more advanced students seeking a deeper understanding of the English language, to creating workshops for the students here at the Excellence center; workshops such as job hunting, or creating CVs, or running mock interviews. You will encounter many different methods of teaching English here in Palestine.

There are few places as beautiful as Palestine.

And finally, there are few places as beautiful as Palestine. To be such a small country, yet hold such an expansive and unique history, it really is the only place like it. Each city, so accessible and close in proximity, yet so unique to themselves.

From the sad but beautiful walls of Bethlehem to the famous Dead Sea, or the truly surreal, “flagship enterprise city” Rawabi; you will have no shortage of things to do during your internship in Palestine.

Any questions?

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact at Rafat@excellencenter.org

Whatsapp:+972599479880

For more information, please visit our website: https://excellencenter.org

Excellence Center’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ExcellenceCenter

Excellence Center’s Facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/RafatECHebron

Watch us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsQSLdFZWZcBm6Uj0XMYuKg

Visit and Explore Palestine: https://www.facebook.com/ExplorePalestine