Program Reviews

My overall experience at KFUPM was great. I met many amazing people who are now lifelong connections. The university itself is very nice. The campus is beautiful, and I will have to mention that the campus is built on a literal mountain. However, I love how they incorporated parts of the mountain into the infrastructure, and the architecture is also really pretty. Academically, the school is as challenging as it is in America. However, the professors are really nice and super helpful. The professors will literally move the schedule around if some tests or quizzes overlap, even if it's within the same week. The professors are really understanding and push you to do better. There were some challenges along the way, but overall it was a very nice experience.

I. Arrival and First Impressions

When I arrived in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. I had never visited the Middle East before, and though I was excited, I was also bracing for a difficult adjustment. But almost immediately, those concerns melted away. One of my earliest memories was walking around the campus at 2 AM and being stopped by someone who said, “Hey, I saw you earlier today. Would you like to join me for some coffee?” I was genuinely taken aback — in the best way. This happened multiple times: strangers introducing themselves, inviting us for coffee, all very curious and welcoming. That warmth set the tone for the entire five months I spent studying at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM).

KFUPM made a concerted effort to help us settle in. Each of the 12 exchange students was paired with a student mentor who helped us navigate everything from setting up a bank account to understanding cultural nuances. Although the initial weeks felt a bit constrained — we stayed mostly on campus, relying on Uber to get out — we quickly grew more confident and began exploring the surrounding area multiple times a week.

II. Academics and Life at KFUPM

The academic environment at KFUPM was more relaxed than what I was used to at Georgia Tech, but the material was just as rigorous. The professors were approachable, and the classes often emphasized real-world applications. My favorite course was International Relations, taught by a recent Penn State graduate. While we followed a structured syllabus, much of our class time was spent engaging in open discussions about global politics, particularly the impact of U.S. foreign policy and leadership. These conversations were some of the most intellectually stimulating moments of my semester.

Culturally, the daily routine wasn’t all that different from life back home. I would rush to class after skipping breakfast, sometimes study afterward, and often resist the urge to nap before my next lecture. What made it different wasn’t the schedule — it was the people, the setting, and the shared experience with the other exchange students.

III. Social Life and Cultural Observations

While I made many friends at KFUPM, I can’t say I became particularly close with any one of the Saudi students there. I think part of that came from knowing the exchange was temporary. Still, I was warmly included, and the friendships I formed with fellow exchange students became some of the most important ones of the trip. We shared meals, studied together, and explored Saudi Arabia as a group.

One cultural element we quickly adapted to was the dynamic between men and women in public. At first, we were cautious and hyper-aware of potential missteps. But over time, we became more comfortable — to the point where we briefly forgot about gendered expectations. I remember planning an outing with some female coworkers and realizing only at the last moment that the restaurant we chose wasn’t considered appropriate for women. It was a useful reminder that even when you adjust, it’s important to remain mindful.

Weekends usually involved going to the gym and visiting our favorite restaurants — shawarma at Mama Noura’s or grilled meat dishes at Bilad Al Sham. We also spent a lot of time drinking Arabic coffee and eating dates, which are central to the culture. Hospitality in Saudi Arabia is unmatched, and nearly everyone I met was eager to hear about my background and how my perception of Saudi Arabia had changed. Truthfully, I didn’t have strong preconceptions before arriving, so I mostly absorbed and learned as I went.

One unexpected takeaway? Bidets. I got used to them quickly, and now I find myself wishing they were more common in the U.S.

IV. Travel and Exploration

Though the semester was academically focused, we were able to travel a bit. We visited Riyadh, Bahrain, and also stayed in the UAE for a week. While the UAE was more Westernized, I found it less distinctive than Saudi Arabia in some ways. Still, it was exciting to see a different side of the region. We visited The Museum of the Future in Dubai, a surreal and beautifully designed space that blends science, art, and imagination. It was definitely an interesting and unique experience. 

Back in Saudi, we spent time in Diriyah, a cultural district being developed around the historic old city in Riyadh. It was one of the most impressive places I visited — a blend of historical preservation and modern development. The museums in Riyadh, Bahrain, and Dubai also exceeded my expectations. They were meticulously curated, informative, and visually striking. My friends and I were consistently impressed, and I found myself learning much more than I had anticipated about the region’s history and ambitions.

V. Eight Weeks at Aramco: A Different Kind of Learning

After the semester ended, I began an eight-week internship at Aramco’s R&D Center in Dhahran. The experience was valuable, but different from what I had expected — and, in some ways, a bit less structured than I’d hoped.

What made the internship meaningful wasn’t just the technical exposure, but the people I met. I had the opportunity to work alongside engineers and researchers from with both Saudi and western backgrounds, and I learned a lot simply by listening to their experiences and perspectives. Conversations about career paths, research, and work culture helped me better understand the professional environment in Saudi Arabia.

Compared to the U.S., the workplace culture felt more relaxed, with a noticeable emphasis on work-life balance. That said, the internship itself was not the most tightly organized experience. There were occasional periods when I didn’t have a clear task, or when communication about project goals was somewhat vague. I wouldn’t describe the internship as fast-paced or high-pressure, but it gave me a window into how different organizations function and adapt to their own rhythms.

Despite some of the slower moments, I still came away with new insights into engineering workflows, project planning, and corporate culture. The R&D Center also exposed me to the broader scope of Aramco’s long-term energy projects, which deepened my curiosity about industrial applications of chemical engineering — even if my personal contributions were more limited than I’d hoped.

Looking back, I think what I appreciated most were the relationships I built. Some of the closest friendships I formed in Saudi Arabia came from the time I spent working at Aramco. It helped close out my time in the country on a personal note, reminding me once again how important people are in shaping any experience.

VI. Conclusion

My time in Saudi Arabia has been transformative. It gave me the chance to step outside of my comfort zone and into a world that is often misunderstood. I gained a deeper appreciation for Saudi culture, made lasting friendships, and developed academically and professionally in ways I didn’t anticipate.

KFUPM did an excellent job supporting us, and I genuinely enjoyed the pace and tone of academic life there. The Aramco internship offered a glimpse into Saudi work culture and gave me the chance to meet and work with people I otherwise would never have encountered. Together, these experiences helped shape my goals for the future and made me more confident, both as a student and as a person.

For any student considering a semester abroad — especially somewhere unexpected — I can’t recommend this experience enough. It wasn’t always perfect, but it was real, exciting, and deeply rewarding.

I decided to come to Saudi Arabia for a semester at KFUPM and an internship at Aramco with one main goal: to grow as a person. I wanted to step out of my comfort zone, live in a completely different environment, and really change my past self. In the end, I got exactly that and more.

Whether you're coming here to explore Saudi culture, for the academic opportunities, or just for the internship experience, there’s something here for everyone. But what really made this experience special for me was the people, especially the other exchange students.

There’s something unique about the kind of people who choose to come here. It’s not the typical study abroad destination, and that means the people you meet are curious, driven, and open to growth. We all came from different places, but being in this environment together created strong bonds. I grew so much just by being around them.

Being in a completely new setting like this allows you to have a change of environment to really become an improved version of yourself.

Spending a semester as an exchange student at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) was a deeply enriching academic and cultural experience. KFUPM’s reputation as a leading institution in the region was evident through its rigorous coursework, strong research emphasis, and highly knowledgeable faculty. As a Chemical Engineering student, I particularly appreciated the depth and quality of instruction, as well as the university’s investment in advanced laboratory facilities and student research opportunities.

One of the most valuable aspects of my time at KFUPM was the exposure to diverse problem-solving approaches and regional energy challenges, especially in the context of sustainable development and fossil fuel innovation. The coursework complemented my home curriculum while offering new perspectives shaped by local industry collaborations and academic priorities.

Outside the classroom, I was impressed by the hospitality and warmth of the KFUPM community. My peers and professors were welcoming, and I quickly felt integrated into student life. The campus itself is beautifully maintained and features excellent resources, including state-of-the-art libraries, technical centers, and recreational spaces.

This experience expanded my worldview, enhanced my cross-cultural communication skills, and provided insight into the academic and industrial landscape of the Middle East. I left with not only new academic tools, but also lasting friendships and a deeper appreciation for global collaboration in engineering and research.

This exchange semester at KFUPM, and life in Saudi Arabia overall, have truly been an incredible and transformative journey. The university team provided exceptional support, guiding me through every stage of the experience with genuine enthusiasm, dedication, and care. The academic challenges were rigorous and intellectually stimulating, but they were also incredibly rewarding thanks to the university’s vibrant learning environment and its strong, dynamic connections with leading industries in the region. These connections offered valuable insights into real-world applications of our studies. Beyond academics, I was warmly welcomed by the Saudi people, whose kindness and hospitality made me feel at home. The student campus life was not only active and engaging, but also offered countless opportunities for cultural exchange, personal growth, and lifelong friendships.

Studying abroad at KFUPM in Saudi Arabia was a transformative experience. The coursework was rigorous and pushed me to grow academically and professionally. I had the chance to explore a new culture, try incredible local foods, and travel across the region—from Egypt to Oman. One of the highlights was engaging with Aramco, where I got firsthand exposure to the global energy industry. The experience broadened my perspective, challenged me in new ways, and gave me lasting connections in one of the world’s most important energy hubs.

I really enjoyed my time at KFUPM. The campus is vibrant and inviting, with small class sizes (no auditorium lectures after freshman year) and approachable, knowledgeable professors. They offer opportunities to grow outside of classrooms through research or by mentoring you through your own projects.

While it can be a bit challenging to be in a community where English is not the main language, students speak English very well and will mostly speak English in your presence to keep you engaged in conversation. Though it might be hard at the beginning to make friends, once you get to know 3-4 people, they will connect you with others, helping you build your own group. Students are genuinely welcoming and eager to learn about different cultures and backgrounds. I recommend joining several clubs early on to meet new people and find your group.

One thing that stood out to me was how students would go out of their way to help newcomers find their way around campus once you ask and explain that you are new.

The exchange program staff are incredibly supportive, guiding you through every aspect of your KFUPM experience. I can't recall a time when they weren't there for me.

Additionally, KFUPM offers a stipend sufficient to cover your expenses, along with free housing, healthcare, and affordable, high-quality meals.

For Muslim students interested in deepening their understanding of their faith, KFUPM offers a supportive environment with opportunities for regular mosque prayers, Quran circles, Islamic lectures, and potentially seeking Islamic knowledge.

I've changed a lot since I started this program, especially in the way I approach exam preparation and work ethic. I've learned a number of learning strategies that have improved my comprehension and memorization of the subject matter. My entire school experience has been enhanced by my increased adaptability to various learning situations and cultural contexts. My perspective has become wider and my mind more receptive as a result of this exposure, which has improved my ability to interact with others and accept differing points of view. All in all, the program has given me useful abilities that I can use for my personal development in addition to my academic work.