Super-Intensive Arabic Program In Al-Khalil “My name is Jason, and I live in the United States. I pursued my undergraduate studies in religion and went on to earn my graduate degree in rabbinics. For the past four weeks, I’ve been participating in the super-intensive Arabic program here in Al-Khalil.
From the moment I applied for the Arabic program, I was warmly welcomed into the Excellence Center family. Planning my stay here was smooth, and the directions to the Center in the Ein Sara neighborhood of Hebron were clear. When I arrived over three weeks ago, my fellow students greeted me with great enthusiasm. The Center fosters a culture of welcome and kindness, which reflects the Palestinian culture of hospitality that I have experienced deeply and consistently during my time here.
The Arabic lessons in the super-intensive program were well-structured and rigorous. My teacher, Duha, skillfully balanced the lesson plans with addressing our questions and concerns. The classes covered grammar, speaking and listening, vocabulary, and writing exercises.
The environment at the Center is incredibly positive and kind, making it feel like a home away from home for us foreign students. It’s evident that local Palestinian students also benefit from the Center’s programs. Many of my fellow students have been involved in meaningful volunteer work, internships, or research, and the Center’s administration has established fantastic connections within the larger Al Khalil community and beyond.
As a group, we had some wonderful experiences, such as learning how to make stuffed grape leaves during the grape leaves season and being hosted by a large local family for a delightful dinner. We also had the privilege of exploring the old city and the tomb of the patriarchs/Ibrahimi Mosque, guided by local high school students. Additionally, I had the opportunity to visit Bethlehem and Ramallah, and comparing the museums in each city was both interesting and powerful.
People often inquire about safety in Hebron, but even before I arrived, I knew I was in the care of people who prioritized the safety and well-being of every student and volunteer. Walking around the city at different hours has been comfortable for me, and I genuinely feel safe here. Part of the joy of living in this place has been the friendly interactions with shopkeepers, kids in the neighborhood, and the delightful street food experiences, from morning pastries to evening corn.
While most of my time during the past month was spent in Hebron and other cities, I previously enjoyed some time on the Palestinian heritage trail, which I highly recommend. As I write this, I’m experiencing the transition from spring to summer, and I appreciate the contrast between the warm days and cooler nights, often accompanied by gentle winds.
The Palestinian hospitality that I envisioned before arriving here has exceeded my expectations at every turn. People have taken a genuine interest in getting to know me, and cafes have been welcoming places for my fellow students and me to study or relax, sipping on frozen passion fruit drinks or mint lemonades for hours.
I’m already feeling a sense of sadness as my time here comes to an end. I hope to return as a volunteer and, with the assistance of the Excellence Center, inshallah, find ways to support and strengthen Palestinian society.”
Find us online
Whatsapp:+972-599-479880
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/excellence.center
The Excellence Centerโs Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ExcellenceCenter
Excellence Centerโs 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
