As an International Studies and Geography dual major at the University of Kentucky, Gwen Schaefer decided to study abroad in order to radically challenge her worldview and to meet people from diverse backgrounds. Minoring in Arabic and Islamic Studies, Gwen wanted to improve her Arabic skills and experience the Middle East first hand. Wishing to explore a part of the region which is less frequented by Americans, Gwen chose to study abroad in Jordan. AMIDEAST's emphasis on community engagement and options for students to live with a Jordanian host family appealed to Gwen, so she decided to participate in the AMIDEAST summer and fall 2011 programs in Jordan.

Throughout her six and a half months with AMIDEAST, Gwen noted that she developed in numerous ways: academically, professionally, and personally. Her adventure began in mid-June when she took part in two month-long Intensive Arabic Programs in Amman. Gwen loved AMIDEAST’s partnership with the Qasid Institute and felt that the Arabic classes deeply enhanced her Arabic language acquisition. Gwen furthered her Arabic language proficiency and had the chance to explore the region in depth by remaining for the fall 2011 Area & Arabic Language Studies program. Most notably, Gwen was pleased that her additional term abroad afforded her the opportunity to strengthen her relationships within the Jordanian community, to intern at the Ministry of Political Development, and to serve as a research assistant. Overall, Gwen noted that she “truly appreciated the fantastic staff and support system that AMIDEAST had to offer.”

After her semester in Jordan with AMIDEAST, Gwen searched for ways to return to the region. During the summer of 2012, Gwen found her way back to Amman and worked on an independent research project. Studying the political identity of Iraqi refugees in Jordan, Gwen’s research was funded by the University of Kentucky Department of Undergraduate Research. Along with her independent project, Gwen continued her research assistant position at the University of Jordan. Upon returning to her senior year of college, Gwen interned as and Education Abroad Peer Ambassador where she was able to mentor University of Kentucky students interested in education abroad opportunities around the world. After graduation in May 2013, Gwen plans to pursue a master’s in geography focusing on political development patterns in the Middle East, North Africa, and Latin America.