What's to Blog About: "Kulshi!" Everything!

​Kulshi Mizzienne, everything is good, at least when it comes to educational inspiration here in the north of Morocco.

In the past two weeks, I have met with members of the United States Embassy, a professional who directs the Morocco to USA Fulbright Exchange program, the director of the Science University in Tetouan, Morocco, the director of the American Language Center, university faculty, American Language Center teachers, and students, and what did I learn? I found that here in the Tetouan there is immense interest in education abroad, but a dearth of information about how one can do so in the United States. Helping students figure out their dreams, and then plan them... well that's what I love to do. So I'm trying to figure out ways to increase access to information in the North of Morocco, and thought I might share whatever I learn here.

At the School of Applied Sciences in the Abdelmalek Essaadi University on Wednesday, approximately 100 students came to a U.S. Embassy event on Educational Opportunity stateside. I was impressed with the level of interest, and how many women are in the sciences here in Tetouan! Most of the students were in a 5-year Engineering program that earns a Master's degree in Morocco. 

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I was a guest speaker at this event, and got to survey students to find out what they want to know more about.

The Survey Results: ​Out of 84 respondents, more than 60 wanted to learn about U.S. University Applications, and Fulbright Scholarship programs, and more than 50 wanted help with how to write application essays.  Students came to me after our presentation and shared their excitement about learning more, and begged for workshops on these and other topics. Qualitative survey results showed that students also want to learn about how to choose programs that are a good fit for their interests, and how to finance their education if they are not selected or eligible for a Fulbright. 

​I also came to another event at the American Language Center, and visitors there also expressed a strong interest in learning more.

I was also told by several education colleagues to look into collaborations with the University Abdelmalek Esaadi (UAE) Career Center. 

As a result of the many meetings I've had over the past couple of weeks, I am planning to prioritize the information I've been given, and to make some decisions about next steps. As I learn along the way, I will share here!

This blog may interest students who want to know or give input into what's coming next, professionals who may want to partner with me, or others who are considering similar initiatives around the world who want to watch this process (hopefully) unfold.

I welcome any input along the way!