HANNAH CHARTOFF, Research Associate for Middle Eastern Studies, the Council on Foreign Relations, New York, U.S.A.

2012-2013 U.S. Fulbright Student, Arab Academy, Cairo, Egypt

“One adage that I have found holds true in Cairo is that you learn something new every day, whether the lesson is in vocabulary, sociology, humility, or faith in humanity. During my nine-month grant, not only have I improved my Arabic language ability and gained a better understanding of Egypt, its politics, its history, and its people, but I have also learned how to begin a dialogue even in the most difficult circumstances and gained a greater respect for the differences in worldview that seem to divide us and a greater appreciation for the human emotions that bring us together. Sappy as it sounds, the experience of facing the daily challenges of cultural exchange and life in Cairo has given me an increased sense of confidence in myself—something that I hope to carry with me for the rest of my life…Thank you to all my teachers and friends, Egyptian and American, that made my experience as a Fulbrighter in Cairo both enlightening and rewarding!”

Hannah Chartoff sand boarding in the White Desert, Egypt