Dear Student,

You have been nominated to participate in a two-week short-term global program at KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology) located in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia. The program is designed for US STEM students to gain cross-cultural understand of the Muslim world, meet scientists, learn skills for graduate school, and gain on-the-ground immersion in Saudi Arabia by visiting KAUST and locations of Saudi cultural significance.

Program Dates in Saudi Arabia: September 10-19, 2023

Pre-Departure online program: August 21-September 1, 2023

Program Fees: program fees, travel, and lodging will be paid for eligible students

Learning goals

Students will…

Cross-cultural understanding

1. Evaluate and dismantle US stereotypes and own cultural biases about Saudi Arabia and the Muslim world.
2. Appreciate history, culture, and geopolitics of Saudi Arabia.
3. Visit locations of cultural and historical significance, engaging with local communities.

Scientific

1. Learn about scientific research and life at KAUST.
2. Practice scientific, communication, and professional skills required for success in graduate school.

The program will be co-led by an University of Oregon and KAUST team.

For questions, please contact Elly Vandegrift ellyvan@uoregon.edu, Program Director Global Science Education Initiatives, University of Oregon or visit our website.

* The UO’s “Know, Understand, Experience" (KUE) series of study abroad programs open awareness and challenge stereotypes of less well known and often misunderstood places and cultures.