Since its establishment in 1982, the Arabic School at Middlebury has evolved to become the primary destination on the North American continent for students who wish to learn and live the Arabic language and culture in a relatively short period of time. At Middlebury, one can learn more Arabic in less time than in almost any other environment. The school has also played a key role in shaping the course of Arabic language teaching in the United States and abroad. The Al-Kitaab textbook series which was developed and produced at the School is now the most widely used Arabic language textbook series in universities in the United States and abroad. Our faculty often return to their home institutions to transmit the innovative and highly effective techniques of the Middlebury approach to teaching foreign languages. The students also leave the school with a much higher set of goals and expectations for themselves and for their future Arabic classes.
The heart and soul of Middlebury are its teachers, staff and students. Some of the most dedicated teachers and interns from leading U.S. universities and Arab countries come to Middlebury to share their experience, expertise and dedication with you. If it's ten o'clock at night and you have a question you can go to your instructor's office, and he or she will probably be there preparing for tomorrow's classes or helping a classmate of yours. If your instructor is not available, ask any other instructor or intern who's around. They will be more than glad and willing to help you.
Our students come from universities and professions all over the world, and represent a wide variety of backgrounds and interests. The diversity coming from the mix of graduate students, undergraduates and professionals is one of the keys to the program's success.
The Arabic School offers you a unique experience that is virtually unmatched anywhere in the world. Middlebury is much more than textbooks and classrooms. The entire environment shapes your Arabic learning experience. The value of the experience cannot be calculated in terms of semesters and credit hours. You will eat, sleep, study, make friends, interact with professors, watch television and films, and attend lectures given by the faculty and distinguished guest speakers, all exclusively in Arabic. Arabic newspapers, magazines, television and websites will keep you up to date on current events around the world. Additionally, you can enjoy all of your favorite sports at Middlebury College's state of the art sports facilities, all while learning to challenge your opponents in Arabic.
The Arabic School challenges its students to live up to their utmost potential. We know that you are willing to invest nine weeks of your life in this program. We realize that you have pledged total commitment to the acquisition of Arabic language and culture. We appreciate that you will entrust us with the mission of guiding you to your goals. We pledge that we are equally committed to the same mission and we will provide you with the tools and the assistance necessary for you to achieve your goals. We will challenge you and we expect you to challenge us. At the Arabic School, we will do our best to help you reach the goals that you have set for yourself, in an intense, yet friendly and enjoyable environment. Please do not hesitate to call on us if you have any questions about the Arabic program.
Dr. Mahmoud Abdalla
Director, Arabic School