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It reminded me of the power of language, of empathy, and of shared humanity—the reason why I came there in the first place—not just to study, but to connect.
Folu Adenuga, Duke in The Arab World (Summer 2025)
What is your favorite memory from your study away experience?
My favorite memory from Egypt was an unexpected, emotional Uber ride. On one of our last days, a few of us headed to a group dinner at a restaurant on the Nile after spending time at Khan El-Khalili market. Midway through our ride, our driver began to slow down, pulled over, and started recording a voice message, nearly shouting.
Thanks to our Arabic classes, we were able to pick out a few of the words. He kept repeating “alhamdulilah” (all praise be to God), and we caught the word “hospital”.
We exchanged concerned glances as his voice began to tremble and then break. Through tears, he turns to us and shows us his phone. On it was a photo of a newborn baby—his baby.
He told us that his wife had just given birth after 9 years of trying to have a child. This brought me to tears. We congratulated him in the best way we knew how: “mabrouk, bsaha, alhamdulilah.” He apologized profusely for stopping the ride, but we told him not to worry—he could drop us off anywhere, just go be with his family.
Still, he insisted on finishing the trip before heading to the hospital. It was such a small moment, yet it left such a huge impact on me. It reminded me of the power of language, of empathy, and of shared humanity—the reason why I came there in the first place—not just to study, but to connect.
Where were your favorite places to go?
During our program, we stayed in three unforgettable cities: Fes and Rabat in Morocco, and Cairo in Egypt. Each was so different yet so special.
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The Souq in Fes was easily my favorite place. A car-free world with such deep cultural roots and community values that it felt like a living, lively, and vibrant museum. It was a cultural hub, social scene, and sensory overload in the best way possible. You walk beside mules, vendors wheeling large loads, squeezing through narrow alleyways. You can find stores, homes, restaurants, mosques, and more. Whether you’re looking for clothes, souvenirs, a place to eat, or some freshly squeezed juice (sugarcane juice and crepes were group favorites), you want it—the souq has it.
The souq also doubled as a classroom. It provided an opportunity, especially while putting our bargaining skills to work, to practice Arabic. The people of Fes are so animated, so expressive, and sooo full of character. In the Religious Citizenship class, we learned about the instrumental role that souqs like this one played in revolutions and political reform, which gave me a deeper respect and sense of appreciation for the space.
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In Rabat, the mall and beach were our go-to spots. The mall was a short walk from our school, making it our default after school hangout spot. We would work, shop, and eat. There was such a wide variety of both familiar and unfamiliar foods.
The beach was so relaxing, especially on the hotter days. One of my highlights was signing up for surfing lessons. It was everyone’s first time and it was such a fun experience that several people did it again. It was a great use of our rest day.
Our last home away from home was Cairo in Egypt. Although we were only there for 10 days, the city had such a positive impression on the group. Cairo truly comes alive at night, unlike the other cities we stayed in. All of Cairo was my favorite. The city was extremely walkable. Just outside our hotel, the streets were lined with amazing restaurants, bakeries, fresh juice stands, and so much more; we didn’t even come close to exploring it all. I can’t wait for the opportunity to go back and pick up where I left off.
Exploring the interior of the Pyramids of Giza offered a unique perspective on some of the world’s oldest wonders.
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In ten days, Cairo managed to give us late-night juice runs, emotional Uber rides, and Arabic sing-alongs on the Nile.
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The Whole cohort on a guided tour through Coptic Cairo, home to many members of Egypt's Christian community.
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Language isn't the only way to connect. Sometimes it's in a gesture, a joke, or a sea creature handed to you pre-meal.
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Posing in front of Hassan Tower. What remains of a 12th-century dream to build the world's largest mosque.
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Why did you decide to do Duke in The Arab World?
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As a first-generation immigrant from Nigeria, I haven’t had the chance to return home since coming to the U.S. While I was excited about the opportunity to participate in any study abroad program, Duke in the Arab World felt like the closest I had been to home...ever.
Outside of that, I was drawn to the program because I desired to experience a culture shock—I wanted to go somewhere where I could be immersed in a life entirely different from anything I had known. I wanted not only to challenge myself but also my assumptions, routines, and the way I saw the world. I can confidently say that I got all of that and more. [Honorable mention to the photos on the GEO website]
How will this program shape the rest of your undergraduate experience?
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This program has had a lasting impact on both my academic and personal journey. I have since decided to continue pursuing Arabic to fulfill my foreign language requirement, not because I already got one credit, but because I have truly fallen in love with the language. Learning Arabic together truly strengthened the bond of the group. Many of our strongest connections were built through learning, shared experiences, and, of course, constant conversation to keep our favorite words and phrases alive.
Outside of language, the Religious Citizenship class introduced me to entirely new frameworks and ways of thinking. It pushed me to reflect on what it means to be an active citizen, not just voting or protesting, but how one engages with the communities, systems, and responsibilities around them. I am leaving this program more intentional about how I want to show up in the world, back home, on campus, and in the broader global society.
What advice do you have for students considering this program?
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Though the Arab World is rich with history, culture, and beauty, this program is not a vacation. It is a chance to challenge yourself and your assumptions, not to impose your own norms or values onto others.
This experience will be what you make it, and you will get out of it what you give. Come in with an open mind, open heart, and most importantly, with respect. Be ready to listen, observe, and learn why people think, act, and live the way they do. Approach every interaction with humility and curiosity. If you do, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories, a broader perspective, a deeper sense of self (and some great photos).