Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport - AASTMT
speciality: Engineering

My journey at the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport in Alexandria, Egypt, was nothing short of transformative. Coming from a background rooted in African Christian values and Western traditions, I found myself immersed in a world vastly different from what I had known. Before arriving, I had envisioned a familiar academic environment—one where English was the primary language of instruction and interactions resembled those I had experienced in the United States. However, reality proved to be an entirely different experience.

My initial exposure to Egypt had been through living in Cairo, an affluent area where Western influences were more apparent. Yet, Alexandria’s campus introduced me to an entirely new facet of Middle Eastern culture. In 2003, I was likely the only full-time foreign student living on campus, and my presence stood out. The academic structure itself was rigorous, but the cultural and social adjustments were the most striking aspects of my experience.

I quickly realized that the social norms regarding gender interactions were vastly different. In the U.S., friendships between men and women were casual and commonplace, but in Alexandria, physical interactions were minimal, and many women covered their hair in adherence to cultural and religious traditions. My first encounter with a woman who revealed her knees after months of seeing only covered attire was so shocking that I almost jumped out of a taxi in surprise. These experiences constantly reshaped my understanding of cultural diversity.

Academically, the challenges were numerous. The program followed the International Maritime Organization’s standards, making it one of the best maritime programs in Africa. Yet, the language barrier presented difficulties. While textbooks were in English, many lectures drifted into Arabic, forcing me to seek help from classmates or meet with professors after hours. At times, it was frustrating, as I had to remind instructors to accommodate the only non-Arabic-speaking student in the room.

The most demanding period was my two years as a cadet, where discipline was paramount. Mornings began with military-style exercises, followed by a structured schedule of classes, meals, and training. The transition to sea training was even tougher. With limited time for hands-on learning, I often felt like I was playing catch-up. My peers, mostly Middle Eastern students, had an easier time navigating both the academic and social landscapes. Though I worked hard and performed well overall, I knew that without the language barrier, my experience would have been much smoother.

Despite the struggles, there were rewarding moments. I participated in the International Association of Maritime Universities Conference, which introduced me to students from around the world. These interactions provided a sense of belonging and eased some of the isolation I had felt as the lone full-time foreign student. However, the overall social scene was far from what one might expect from a typical college experience. There were no extravagant parties or extensive campus nightlife; instead, students engaged in structured activities and clubs.

Over time, I gained a deep appreciation for the region’s cultural intricacies. I witnessed firsthand the diverse perspectives among Middle Eastern students regarding their own nationalities—how Egyptians viewed Syrians, how Moroccans regarded Libyans, and so on. This exposure expanded my worldview far beyond what I had previously imagined.

Reflecting on my experience, I acknowledge the immense personal growth I underwent. If asked whether I would recommend the Arab Academy to others, my answer would depend on the individual. For those pursuing maritime engineering, the institution is one of the best. However, for a young woman, particularly a Black woman, navigating the cultural landscape could be challenging without a strong support system. While I faced difficulties as a male student, I recognize that women, especially those of African descent, may encounter additional societal biases.

In the end, my time at the Arab Academy was an invaluable chapter of my life. It shaped my resilience, broadened my cultural understanding, and challenged me to adapt in ways I never anticipated. Though the journey was not without hardships, it left me with memories, friendships, and lessons that continue to influence me today.