On Thursday November 20^th, the American Corner Nablus held an event for International Education Week in celebration of international education and exchange worldwide.

Dr. Rasha Khayyat, An-Najah's Scholarships Coordinator, opened the event by emphasizing the importance of preparing oneself for studying abroad and thinking ahead. The Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Mohammed Al Amleh, spoke about the importance of international education at An-Najah and also explained the mission and objectives of the American Corner at the University.

The event included informative presentations by Ms. Maureen Marroum and Mr. Kirby Reiling of the U.S. Consulate in Jerusalem on academic exchange programs to the United States and the process of applying for visas.  In addition, Ms. Sana Itayim of EducationUSA, a part of the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), discussed the diverse U.S. higher education system and required documentations for the process of applying to American universities. Ms. Sana also noted the recent significant increase of Palestinians enrolled in U.S. universities by 34.5% from 2013 to 2014 with 429 enrolment in 2014 compared to 319 in 2013.

Mr. Reiling explained the myths and realities of applying for a visa, different types of students visas, documentation needed for the visa application and what to expect in visa interviews. 

Ms. Marroum discussed the variety of U.S. funded exchanges including the different Fulbright programs; teaching programs; the NESA, MEPI and SUSI programs; and high school exchanges opportunities

Fulbright alumni Dr. Emad Dawwas of the Faculty of Engineering shared his experiences studying in the United States and advice for students contemplating applying to U.S. programs. 

Notes:

-       The event was attended by An-Najah students, academic faculty and administration, the general public, and students from public and private schools in Nablus.