A Year in the Fulbright Life: Shaker’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.

September 2021

As part of my “hydraulic structures” class, I visited the Melvin Price Lock and Dam, which is one of the largest dams on the Mississippi River. It was my first time seeing a dam on the inside and analyzing its structure outside of the classroom — something that wasn’t possible back home.

December 2021

During the break, I used the time off to travel to Miami and enjoy the beautiful Miami December weather.

During my trip, I had the opportunity to discover the Cuban American community and cuisine. I was also able to enjoy the stunning Miami beaches and shopping strips!

January 2022

January brought lots of snow to my area! I personally enjoy snow because it gives me an opportunity to take a break and enjoy the calmness and hidden beauty of nature.

August 2022

Before the beginning of a new school year, I volunteered to help set up the apartments for the new Fulbright Teaching Assistants at my university, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. I partnered with community volunteers from the International Hospitality Program at SIUE to set up the rooms of the new visitors and supply them with all the necessary equipment and amenities they might need. It was a very rewarding opportunity to help give back to Fulbright newcomers and make them feel welcomed in their new homes.

Shaker is a 2021 Fulbright student from the West Bank. He is studying Civil Engineering at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.

Follow updates from Shaker 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 Shaker does this year!