Project Global Officer - Arabic

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Welcome to the University of Montana Project Global Officer (GO) Arabic 2024

Scholarships for ROTC cadets to study Arabic in the beautiful city of Missoula, Montana

And abroad in the ancient city of Amman, Jordan!

 

The University of Montana offers:

  1. Project GO Summer Program (10 weeks): Our summer program is divided into two parts, with a strong focus on achieving fluency in the Arabic language and deepening cultural awareness. It encompasses both a domestic and an international study component.
  2. Project GO Spring Program (15 weeks): Our spring program focuses on providing a gateway to the study abroad summer program for students who don't currently have any language background.

 Study Abroad Program Details:

The University of Montana Project Go program is a Summer combined domestic and an intensive study abroad program, in Jordan for ROTC cadets. This program is 10 weeks long, 2 weeks domestic in the beautiful city of Missoula, Montana (50+ instructional hours), and an 8-week abroad, in the ancient city of Amman, Jordan (200+ instructional hours).

This summer program will provide ROTC students with the best quality and the most fun language experience, relying on project-based and task-based instruction in Jordan to allow them to speak Arabic as much as they can in the form of a project and task they will do every day. With that being said, students won’t sit in the classroom to be showered with boring grammar rules, verb conjugations, and irrelevant topics. Rather, they will get a totally one-of-a-kind tailor-made classroom experience that will prepare them to speak Arabic fluently, engage with the locals, and top up their Arabic language skills.

Not only that, When in Amman, Jordan, cadets will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture through a variety of activities and by spending time with assigned Jordanian families. These families will welcome students into their homes, where they can engage in activities such as cooking, watching movies, and enjoying quality time together. These arrangements provide a meaningful cultural experience for cadets while ensuring that they enjoy as much as they can during their time in Jordan.

ROTC cadets will also be assigned language-speaking partners to help them skyrocket their speaking skills, along with the scheduled group excursions and field trips that will make the study abroad experience fun and rewarding.

What sets our program apart is that it offers a comprehensive, well-rounded experience that extends far beyond language instruction. It's a journey of personal growth, cultural enrichment, and career development. Cadets who embark on this adventure emerge not only as fluent Arabic speakers but as global citizens ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities of an interconnected world.

Program locations: 2 weeks in Missoula, Montana, and 8 weeks in Amman, Kingdom of Jordan

Domestic Course: May 20th, 2024 - May 31st, 2024 (2 credit hours)

Overseas Course: June 1st, 2024 - July 27th, 2024 (12 credit hours)

Full Program Dates: May 20th, 2024 - July 27th, 2024

Program Level: Year 1, Year 2, Year 3

Application Deadline: January 18, 2024

 

Why Choose Project GO Arabic at the University of Montana:

Before we delve into what sets our program apart. Can you imagine yourself speaking Arabic with such fluency and natural flow after just two months of learning Arabic through our PGO program? Check out the video of one of our outstanding 2023 cadet participants who joined us at absolute beginner level: Watch Now . Dive deeper and watch a full documentary about the 2023 PGO journey of two of our exceptional graduate cadets: Watch Now. 

Our program offers a wide range of compelling reasons to choose us for your Arabic language education and cross-cultural experience, as we'll explore below:

  • Language Proficiency: Graduate cadets emerge equipped with a well-rounded set of language skills that are immediately applicable in real-life Arabic-speaking situations. We emphasize the development of listening, reading, speaking, and writing abilities to ensure that cadets are not just a passive observer but an active participant in Arabic communication. Our program places a strong emphasis on speaking skills. Cadets gain the ability to engage in meaningful conversations, express their thoughts fluently, and connect with native speakers on a deeper level. Our program ensures that cadets not only master Modern Standard Arabic but also become proficient in the Levantine Dialect, giving them the confidence to engage with the average Jordanian person in their language.
  • Continued Education: Our commitment to cadets' success goes beyond the PGO program. The University of Montana ROTC graduates receive ongoing support. After successfully finishing the PGO program, graduate cadets have the opportunity to continue their education through online classes with the host institute funded by the University of Montana. They also can enroll in the University of Montana Online Spring PGO program. This allows ROTC graduates to apply, maintain, and keep honing the language skills they learned while in Jordan.
  • Dedicated Support In Jordan: Jordanian PGO coordinator will accompany the students throughout the study abroad period. PGO coordinator has fun activities and cultural trips scheduled for students to make sure they are having the best study abroad experience full of fun and excitement. If tutoring is needed, ROTC cadets can schedule tutoring sessions with the program coordinator at a time and place that works for them. 
  • Expert Instruction: The University of Montana is partnering up with the best Arabic language center in Jordan that has highly qualified Arabic language instructors and wide extensive experience working with DOD of different countries in the world (air force, embassy diplomats, army, ROTC, and Navy). 
  • Exploring Montana and its beauty: The domestic portion of the program will be conducted in Missoula, Montana, one of the most beautiful states in the US. This will allow ROTC students to not only learn Arabic but to take this opportunity to explore Missoula and take in all the beauty and fun that Montana offers.
  • Fun Excursions and Fantastic Field Trips: When in Jordan, cadets will have the chance to participate in group excursions. The excursions are designed to increase cadets’ cultural and historical knowledge while also having fun. Cadets will get to visit (Petra, The Dead Sea, Aqaba, Wadi Rum, Mount Nebo and Madaba, Jerash and Ajloun, and Ancient Desert Palaces). Students will literally explore every single breathtaking place in Jordan.
  • Dynamic Learning: Instruction will be around cadets’ needs, interests, and goals and will follow the best teaching approaches. This means that there is no room for the old-fashioned method of teaching nonsense grammar, old phrases, and irrelevant topics.
  • Cultural Engagement: When in Jordan, there will be different cultural activities designed by the MALIC Center (The host institute) on a weekly basis. These activities will bring fun to the study-abroad experience, and will fully immerse ROTC cadets in Jordanian society. Cadets will have the opportunity to participate in multiple cultural fun activities like (cooking, making Turkish coffee, dancing, visiting rural areas, singing, etc.…)
  • Proven Success: All University of Montana ROTC PGO graduates got their proficiency levels increased as per the PGO official tests. This means that the development of ROTC cadets'’ Arabic language skills is 100% guaranteed.
  • Language Partners: There will be 1 daily optional language-speaking partner hour from day 1 at the host institute in Jordan. This is a great opportunity for ROTC students who are interested in boosting their language skills.
  • Cultural Enrichment: When in Montana, 1 hour a week of culture and regional studies will be offered to the ROTC students in order to armor them with a cultural understanding of Arab culture, answer all their questions, and prepare them for the study-abroad experience.
  • Hands-on Military Experience Instruction: Instructors at the University of Montana including the Program coordinator have extensive experience teaching the DOD personnel (Special Forces, Marines, Navy, and Air Force). This means that the instructors understand the language needs, and professional goals of the ROTC cadets and will help them learn as fast as possible. 
  • Unique Blend of Educational Excellence and Life-Enriching Experiences: This program is a meticulously crafted and all-encompassing opportunity for ROTC cadets seeking to master Arabic language skills, deepen their cross-cultural competence, and advance their military careers. With a focus on experiential learning, cultural immersion, and personal growth, this program offers a unique blend of educational excellence and life-enriching experiences. 
  • Experience the Rich Cultural Tapestry of Jordan: Jordan is a country steeped in history and tradition. Cadets will get to explore the ancient archaeological sites, visit bustling markets, and engage with the warm and welcoming Jordanian people. From the archaeological wonders of Petra to the serene waters of the Dead Sea, Jordan offers a myriad of cultural and historical experiences that will enrich cadets' cross-cultural journey.

Learn more about Arabic PGO at the University of Montana and discover the transformative experiences that await you in our program:

 

Textbook: 

Core: Since we believe textbooks don’t help students reach their learning goals, we decided not to waste our student’s time teaching them outdated textbooks like Al-kitab. We have designed the University of Montana Course PowerPoint Presentations instead. The course is organized thematically and follows task-based and proficiency-based approaches to get the students to speak from the very first session without the grammar stress and words in isolation that can be found in outdated textbooks. Class materials will be provided in electronic forms at the beginning of the course. click here to see a sample.

Supplemental Materials: Authentic materials (audio, videos, transcripts, websites) to get the students ready for the real world.

Additional Details About the Study Abroad Program:

There are no prerequisites for this program. Any ROTC cadet can join our program whether they are absolute beginners or at the most advanced level. Students joining our program will get a tailor-made class based on their interests, goals, and skill levels. 

Program Structure:

  • Cadets are scheduled to start their journey on May 19th, 2024, when they will depart for Missoula, Montana, where they will spend a duration of two weeks. Subsequently, with the program coordinator, they will depart for Jordan on June 1st, 2024. During their time in Jordan, they will engage in an eight-week study program. The conclusion of their international program will see them return on July 27, 2024
  • For the domestic portion of the program in Missoula, Montana: ROTC cadets will stay with a roommate(s) in DoubleTree By Hilton hotel, 5 minutes of walking distance to the University of Montana. Cadets will be provided with a rental van to go from/to the University of Montana and to get their groceries. Please note that the domestic portion of the program is fully funded. 
  • While in Missoula, cadets will engage in daily classes lasting 4-5 hours. These classes are carefully crafted to significantly enhance their speaking skills and prepare them for seamless communication in Jordan, catering to participants ranging from absolute beginners to those at the most advanced levels. Cadets will actively participate in a variety of activities, including hands-on falafel preparation, Arab movie viewings, and virtual interactions with current special forces students stationed at Fort Campbell. These military students are also studying Arabic through the University of Montana.

Beyond their scheduled class hours and activities, cadets enjoy the freedom to plan their own adventures. They can explore the natural beauty of Montana by visiting Yellowstone or Glacier National Park, take in the sights and experiences of the state, hit the gym, or pursue their personal interests as they see fit.

  • When in Jordan, cadets will stay in hotel apartments as their primary accommodation, enjoying the comfort and convenience of hotel facilities. Additionally, they will be spending time with assigned Jordanian families. These families will welcome students into their homes, where they can engage in activities such as cooking, watching movies, and enjoying quality time together. This will foster cultural immersion and provide more understanding of the Jordanian family structure, while also practicing the speaking skills learned in the host institute in authentic settings. Students’ meals will be covered with a student stipend.
  • When in Jordan, Arabic classes will take place at MALIC Center(Modern Arabic Language International Center), Jordan, located in the beautiful Al-Jubeiha, a neighborhood in Western Amman, a 3-minute walk from the University of Jordan and prominent shops and restaurants.
  • Upon successful completion of the program, cadets will get 12 academic credits from the host university, and 2 academic credits from the University of Montana.
  • Yes, there are gyms in Jordan. (: 
  • When in Jordan, the MALIC Center offers an inclusive and vibrant environment for our students. The center's doors are always open, providing a welcoming space for students to connect, relax, and engage in various activities. Whether they want to hang out, study, or socialize with fellow MALIC students, the center is a hub of community and camaraderie.
  • In addition to their academic pursuits, we believe in the importance of holistic development and having fun while learning. After classes, cadets have the flexibility to shape their experience. They can head to the gym to maintain their physical well-being, spend quality time with friends, or embark on adventures to explore the city of Amman, discovering its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant atmosphere. 
  • Get to know our program coordinator: If you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance with your application, or simply want to chat about the program, don't hesitate to drop the program coordinator an email at moayyad.al-azzam@mso.umt.edu. 

 

All Project GO programs provide funding for:

  • Tuition/fees
  • Room and Board
  • Travel to/from the study location
  • Books
  • Insurance
  • Visa

The following costs will not be included in Project GO Funding: personal spending money, personal travel, costs for obtaining a passport, medication, and expenses for dependents.

Please Note: Project GO participants planning to travel abroad MUST have a valid U.S. passport in their possession no later than 90 days before the anticipated travel date.

 

How to Apply:

To embark on this exciting journey with us as a Project Global Officer (GO) for Summer 2024, We invite you to apply for our program. The process is simple and starts with submitting a completed online application at: https://apply.iie.org/projectgostudyabroad. In addition to the application, applicants are required to provide a commander recommendation, an academic recommendation, and academic transcripts, all of which can also be submitted at: https://apply.iie.org/projectgostudyabroad.

Our selection committee will review all applications and reach out to successful candidates. We can't wait to welcome you into our vibrant community. If you have any questions or need further information about the University of Montana Arabic PGO program, please feel free to contact our program coordinator, Moayyad Al-Azzam, at: moayyad.al-azzam@mso.umt.edu.

Summer 2024 promises to be a memorable and enriching experience, and we are excited to share it with you!!

 

Spring Program (Online Instruction)

Spring Program Details

This 15-week course provides the opportunity for ROTC students to spend the semester learning the Arabic language and culture of the region. The course will be delivered through Zoomgov, allowing students to have face-to-face interaction with instructors while studying from their current location. 

The objective of this course is to help students gain mastery of the fundamentals of the Arabic language, both Modern Standard Arabic and Levantine Arabic including the Arabic alphabet system, speaking, listening, and reading. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to (1) take Elementary Arabic II at the University of Montana or an equivalent program; (2) speak Levantine Arabic on a variety of topics with a basic level of grammar and vocabulary; and (3) write a short paragraph on familiar topics in Arabic. 

This spring online course is designed as 3-hour of actual online class plus 3-hours of self-study (daily assignments, individual/team projects). Students are required to participate in class 2 times per week, 90 mins each. Depending on the size of the class and each participant's academic/ROTC schedule, class time could be adjusted between students and instructors. 

  • This course does not require any previous education or background knowledge in Arabic.
  • Students are required to prepare a Microphone, Speaker, Laptop (or Desktop), and proper internet connection.
  • Upon successful completion of the program, students will earn 2 credits from the University of Montana.

 

Dates of Program: January 18, 2024 - May 03, 2024

Program Type: Academic Year – Spring

Program Level: Year 1

Application Deadline: December 18, 2023

 

How to Apply:

To apply for the course, please fill out the online application form in the links below. All applicants must complete the submission of 1) Commander Recommendation, 2) Academic Recommendation, and 3) Unofficial Transcripts by the application deadline.

Successful candidates will be contacted by the Selection Committee. Should you have any questions regarding the selection process, please email the program coordinator: Moayyad.Al-Azzam@mso.umt.edu

 

 

CONTACT

Moayyad Al-Azzam
Instructor, Arabic Language
Project GO - Arabic Coordinator
Office: (406) 243-3615
moayyad.al-azzam@mso.umt.edu

Shaima Khinjani
Manager, Academic Programs
Office: (406) 243-3602
shaima.khinjani@mso.umt.edu