Nisreen Kalai

Nisreen Kalai participated in the 2023 CLS Spark Arabic Program hosted by the TAFL Center of Alexandria University in Alexandria, Egypt and the 2024 CLS Arabic Program hosted by the Noor Majan Arabic Institute in Nizwa, Oman. Nisreen is a recent graduate from New College of Florida and studied International and Globalization Studies.

Why Arabic?

As a heritage speaker, I see Arabic as a lifelong learning journey. I started learning it to feel more connected to my heritage. As my fluency has increased so has my ability to connect with people from all around the Middle East. I will always find ways to immerse myself and maintain my language level and improve it.

Career Goals

While writing my thesis, I found Arabic to be particularly important in understanding certain resources and cultural nuances related to Morocco. In the short term, I would like to complete a Fulbright ETA grant to Morocco. In the longer term, I would like to complete a master's in social work to work in the Middle East within the humanitarian field.

CLS’s Impact

As an alum of both CLS Spark and the CLS Oman program, I have experienced firsthand the transformative power of language learning and cultural exchange. Studying Arabic as a heritage speaker has been especially meaningful, allowing me to deepen my connection to my roots, bridge gaps, and foster a richer understanding of my heritage. During my study abroad experience in Morocco, I was profoundly moved by the culture of hospitality. Inspired by my host family’s warmth, I brought these lessons home to Florida, where I now share Moroccan tea traditions and recipes with friends and neighbors to nurture a sense of togetherness. During the 2024 CLS Program in Oman, I expanded my understanding of the Arab world and reflected on my own biases. This experience deepened my appreciation for nuanced cultural perspectives and strengthened my commitment to lifelong learning.