This might be one of the common questions that people ask me once I tell that I’m studying abroad in Jordan this year. If you’re not super into history/geography/politics and not obsessed with the Middle East (like me), it’s understandable that you might not know where Jordan is. So…this is where Jordan is! It’s the country in yellow, northwest of Saudi Arabia. (Note that Jordan is not in Africa 🙂 ).
Here are some fun facts about this fairly small, but really beautiful country:
- The capital city is Amman (where I’ll be living), which spans 19 hills
- Arabic is the official language, but English is understood among a lot of the upper & middle class
- The king of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is His Majesty King Abdullah II
- About 6.5 million people live in Jordan
- Jordan is known for the vast number of refugees it accepts
- Jordan is home to 1 of the 7 Wonders of the World- Petra
- Jordan borders both the Dead Sea and the Red Sea
Another common question I’ve been asked is, “Why Jordan?” After falling in love with Arab culture during two summers of teaching ESL in Dearborn, Michigan, I knew I wanted to be a teacher in the Middle East. I was also so interested in the Arabic language and wanted to be able to speak it fluently. Last fall, I met with my study abroad adviser and, long story short, now I’m leaving in 4 days to study Arabic in Jordan for 9 months! I am so thankful for this opportunity to go to Jordan and study a beautiful language while living among people of a wonderful, hospitable culture. Al-hamdulillah! (Thank you, God!) And now, Jordan, see you soon, inshAllah (God-willing)!
