My experience with the Excellence Center in Hebron

I've been very fortunate to be chosen to work at the excellence center. I have had an extremely interesting time and made some amazing memories with new friends which I hope to keep for years to come. During my time here I have gotten to learn about the individuals who call Hebron home as well as the culture and language that has developed here over thousands of years.

I suppose the first thing that struck me was in the classroom. The students that come to the center are all so excited to be there. Palestinians are some of the most educated individuals in the middle east and I really enjoyed seeing so many people both inside and outside of the classroom just be so curious about anything from language and culture, to science and math. They also never were rude or mean spirited towards one another. In other classes I have taught, I've seen students be so nasty to one another. Teaching here has been very refreshing.

I know most people comment on how friendly people in this region of the world are. As an individual from the south of the United states I found the hospitality less shocking. What was very interesting to me was that everyone I ever interacted with knew every other person it seemed that I interacted with. Even from other cities at times. For a city as large as Hebron that is quite the feat. There are a lot of factors that build into this I think. Some of these include how large the average family is, a robust hospitality culture, as well as a thriving gossiping culture. You'll find that if you are ever in need of something or someone you will find someone that can help you out.

Another thing of interest to me is that though the occupation is always overhead, sometimes quite literally with jet planes making a point to remind everyone right above houses. The people here generally go about their lives and laugh and love one another and still open their houses to strangers and friends alike. I have to be honest I was told by other middle eastern friends that the people of Palestine are cold and rude but that has not been my experience at all. And to be honest once more I find their hope for their future here inspiring.