My Journey Through the World

By Uncle Saro

Chicago US 2013

My love for travel began when I left Iraq in 2013. What started as a journey to explore new opportunities soon became a lifelong passion for connecting with people, learning about different cultures, and building friendships across the globe.

In 2013 when I was selected to participate in the Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program (IYLEP). As part of the program, I traveled to the United States as a chaperone for a group of Iraqi high school students. This experience opened my eyes to the power of cultural exchange and helped shape the path that would eventually lead me to become an educator, traveler, and cultural ambassador.I was based in Chicago, Illinois, where I lived with a wonderful host family who welcomed me into their home and treated me like one of their own. More than a decade later, we still stay connected, and they remain an important part of my life.During the program, our Iraqi students were paired with American students, giving us an incredible opportunity to learn from one another, build friendships, and share our cultures. We participated in leadership workshops, community service projects, cultural activities, university visits, and educational programs designed to help us become future leaders in our communities.

One of the most memorable moments of the entire experience was visiting Chicago's famous Cloud Gate, commonly known as "The Bean." The photo below captures a special moment where Iraqi and American students came together in friendship, representing the true spirit of the IYLEP program.The friendships we built during those weeks transcended borders, languages, and cultures. We laughed together, learned together, and discovered that despite coming from different parts of the world, we shared many of the same hopes and dreams for our futures.

Some highlights of the IYLEP experience were:

Living with an amazing host family in Chicago.
Building lifelong friendships with American students.
Participating in leadership development workshops.
Engaging in community service activities.
Learning about American culture and education.
Sharing Iraqi culture and traditions with our American peers.
Exploring Chicago's landmarks, including The Bean.
Developing leadership skills that would influence my future career.

The IYLEP experience was more than just a trip—it was the beginning of a lifelong journey of cultural exchange, education, and international friendship. Looking back, it was one of the experiences that inspired me to continue traveling, learning, and creating connections around the world.

Photo Caption: Iraqi and American students together at Chicago's iconic Bean (Cloud Gate) during the 2013 Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program (IYLEP). This photo represents the friendships, cultural exchange, and unforgettable memories we created during our time in Chicago.

A group of friends making silly faces and posing together indoors.

Portland US 2014

The following year, in 2014, I returned to the United States as a Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA). Through this prestigious U.S. Department of State program, I had the opportunity to teach Arabic language and culture at both Reed College and Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon, while continuing my own educational and professional journey. It was one of the most transformative experiences of my life.

As a Fulbright scholar, my primary role was to teach Arabic, but the experience quickly became much more than language instruction. I introduced students to Middle Eastern culture through Arabic films, poetry readings, cultural presentations, traditional food demonstrations, music, and even dancing. It was incredibly rewarding to help American students gain a deeper understanding of the Arab world beyond what they might read in textbooks or see in the media.

At the same time, I was learning just as much from the people around me. As part of the Fulbright program, I joined an amazing group of language scholars from around the world. My fellow scholars represented countries including France, Germany, Spain, Argentina, Russia, and China, while I proudly represented Iraq and the Arabic language.

Together, we shared our languages, traditions, foods, stories, and perspectives. We celebrated holidays together, explored Oregon, exchanged teaching ideas, and formed friendships that continue to this day. Those experiences expanded my understanding of the world and showed me that true cultural exchange happens through personal connections and shared experiences.

Living and teaching in the United States also helped me improve my English, strengthen my teaching skills, and gain a deeper understanding of different educational systems and cultural perspectives. It taught me how to adapt to new environments and communicate across cultures.

One of the greatest lessons I learned from Fulbright is that diversity and intercultural understanding cannot be fully learned from books alone—they must be experienced firsthand. The friendships, conversations, and experiences I gained during that year continue to influence my life, my teaching, and my travels.

Receiving my Fulbright Certificate of Completion was more than an academic achievement; it represented a journey of growth, learning, friendship, and cultural exchange that continues to shape who I am today.

Photo Caption (see above)

A fun moment with my Fulbright family at Reed College. Starting from the lower left is me, Sarkawt, representing Iraq and the Arabic language. Above me is Nastya (Russia), next to her is Marina (Argentina), with Paul DeYoung, our International Director, in the center. To his right is Ludwig (Germany). Below are Yaelle (France) and Shiley (China). At the top, having a hilarious "argument," are Albert (Spain) and Audrey (France). This amazing group became lifelong friends through language, culture, and shared experiences. 🌍❤️

Paris France 2024

While the reunion with my Fulbright friends was the main reason for my trip, I also spent three incredible weeks exploring France and experiencing its rich history, culture, and beauty.

One of the highlights was visiting the Eiffel Tower, a landmark I had dreamed of seeing for years. Standing beneath it was a special reminder of how friendships formed through cultural exchange can last a lifetime.

I also spent time exploring the world-famous Louvre Museum, where I was especially excited to visit the Mesopotamian galleries. Seeing ancient Assyrian artifacts and the Code of Hammurabi was a deeply meaningful experience as someone from Iraq. It was incredible to witness pieces of my region's history preserved and displayed for the world to appreciate.

Another unforgettable visit was the magnificent Palace of Versailles. Walking through the lavish halls and stunning gardens gave me a glimpse into French history and the grandeur of the French monarchy. The beautifully designed gardens seemed endless and were among the most impressive landscapes I have ever seen.

I also enjoyed exploring the artistic and historic neighborhood of Montmartre, wandering through the streets of Paris, and visiting places that I had only seen in books and movies.

What made the trip even more special was creating travel content throughout my journey. I shared videos and photos on social media, allowing my students, friends, and followers to experience France alongside me. Looking back at those videos today brings back wonderful memories of exploration, friendship, and adventure.

Perhaps my favorite moment of the entire trip was gathering with my Fulbright friends and creating a special video message for Paul DeYoung, the former Director of International Programs at Reed College. We wanted to thank him for bringing us together all those years ago. Without his support and the Fulbright Program, our international family might never have existed.
Highlights from France included:

Reuniting with my language scholar family
Eiffel Tower
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Louvre Museum – Mesopotamian Gallery
Wall of Languages
Visiting the breathtaking Mont Saint-Michel
Exploring Saint-Malo and Brittany
Experiencing French culture and hospitality
Creating lifelong memories with wonderful friends

Even after nearly ten years, our friendships remain strong. We continue to stay connected through our WhatsApp group, sharing updates, celebrating milestones, and supporting one another from different parts of the world. This trip reminded me that travel is not only about visiting new places—it's about reconnecting with the people who become part of your journey.

Tunisia 2025

In July 2025, I traveled to Tunisia with Lincoln High School students as part of an Arabic language and cultural immersion program. From exploring the historic medinas and walking through centuries-old alleyways to hearing Arabic spoken everywhere around us, the experience strengthened our connection to the language and culture in ways that cannot be replicated in a classroom. Every street, archway, and historic building told a story about Tunisia's rich Arab, Mediterranean, and African heritage.

One of the most memorable experiences was participating in an Arabic calligraphy workshop, where students learned the beauty and artistic tradition of Arabic writing. We also visited cultural centers, explored local markets, enjoyed traditional Tunisian cuisine, and practiced Arabic with local residents. These real-world interactions helped students build confidence while gaining a deeper appreciation for different cultures and perspectives.

Another unforgettable adventure was riding the famous Tunisian Taxi Jama'ee (shared taxi). While it serves as everyday transportation for locals, our students jokingly called it the "death bus" because of the fast-paced driving that often felt more like a roller coaster ride than a bus trip. It quickly became one of the funniest stories and most talked-about experiences of the entire journey.

The trip concluded with a recognition ceremony where I was honored to receive a Certificate of Appreciation for my commitment and contribution to the Portland High School Arabic and Cultural Immersion Program. More importantly, I witnessed students grow academically, culturally, and personally through experiences that will stay with them for years to come.

Highlights

Explored historic medinas, alleyways, and traditional architecture
Participated in an Arabic calligraphy workshop
Practiced Arabic in real-life situations with local residents
Experienced Tunisian culture, cuisine, and hospitality
Rode the famous Taxi Jama'ee shared minibuses
Visited cultural centers, markets, and historic landmarks
Traveled and learned alongside Lincoln High School students
Received a Certificate of Appreciation for supporting the Arabic and Cultural Immersion Program (July 2025)