A Year in the Fulbright Life: Mona’s Story

For the next year, Fulbright MENA will be showcasing a handful of students as they study in the United States with their new series, A Year in the Fulbright Life. Each month, spotlighted students will share an update as they continue on their Fulbright journey.

December 2020:

After the first semester was over, it was hard to have an exceptional holiday break, especially during the pandemic. To make a safe adventure, two friends and I decided to go on a 5 hours road trip ending with a visit to the Ozark forest in Arkansas, where we hiked. This was my first road trip in the United States, I was amazed by the natural beauty and diversity along the way. Fortunately, the weather was warm as it is cold often here.

I really like that the United States has a wide variety of nature. This photo was taken on the way to Whitaker Point.

This was my first Christmas dinner with my friend Kyrstal and her family. I really enjoyed the Christmas vibes and the new delicious food. It was very astonishing how kids got excited to exchange gifts with each other. It felt like being part of a movie, and I really appreciated how American families are caring, loving, and connected.

I was the happiest when I was on the top of Devil’s Canyon! Mother nature is always open to us. It was a good idea to take a break from technology and enjoy the nature for a while!

What about when one of your wishes comes true?! Here is me in the Christmas snow globe when I visited Powel Gardens Festival of Lights to enjoy the Christmas and New Year’s spirit. It was freezing, but I really enjoyed it.

Mona is a first-year Fulbright student from West Bank. She is studying Civil Engineering at the University of Kansas.

Follow updates from Mona and other Fulbright students on our Facebook and Twitter pages. Check back here every month for more updates on the blog and Medium Series to see what Mona does this year!