Joanna K

Language Institute and Level: MEDLI / Advanced Arabic

Why did you choose to study at WISLI? What motivated you to choose our program?

I chose to study at WISLI since I heard from many of my peers at graduate school at UC Berkeley, that the program was intensive and well worth their time. I have had a similar experience and have been very happy with my choice to spend my summer with the Arabic program at MEDLI.

How has learning a less commonly taught language enriched your personal and professional life?

Learning a new language is a difficult task, learning Arabic has taught me the need for discipline, patience, and good humor in navigating challenging situations. Some things I believe will hold me in good stead in different aspects of my life. 

What about WISLI/UW-Madison stands out to you?

The excellent teachers, motivated peers, and cooperative staff and management. I have found that MEDLI staff and teachers worked hard to build and maintain a sense of community between cohorts learning different languages – this was highly appreciated and very fruitful. 

How do you plan to apply proficiency in your target language and cultural skills to your personal/professional journey?

I am a graduate student in the History department at UC Berkeley. I need Arabic to read primary and secondary sources relevant to my research – which focuses on the Middle East and South Asia. Learning Arabic is, therefore, essential to my professional life, and I have made a lot of progress with this goal through this program. 

What have been some of the highlights of your program? What events have you particularly enjoyed?

Daily classes with my peer group and instructor Salah Algabli have been very enjoyable. It has made learning Arabic seem like a breeze and has kept me motivated through the length of the program! The classroom experience has stood out to me during my time with MEDLI and WISLI. 

What role did the WISLI Tuition Scholarship award play when you were making decisions? How would you encourage other students who might be interested in the scholarship to apply?

The WISLI Tuition Scholarship was essential in influencing my decision, it significantly reduced the cost of attending a language summer school – especially in comparison to other options I was considering. The scholarship was a very useful and necessary part of my decision to come to Madison for the summer.  

What advice would you give to students who want to study the same language as you?

My only advice would be to be patient and give yourself over to the process of learning a language. It can be frustrating and challenging at times, but I have found that over time it is a deeply rewarding and satisfying experience. All the best! 

What is your favorite expression in the language you studied this summer?

I love the expression “yalla!” – which in Arabic can mean anything from “Come on!” to “Let’s go”! A phrase very useful to motivate oneself and other people to do something!