Essay

Global Student Spotlight: Abdulelah Alotaibi

A Passion for Cross-cultural Exchange

his spring, Abdulelah Alotaibi completes his MA in Linguistics in the department of Anthropology. Originally from Saudi Arabia, he first came to the United States in 2014 on a Fulbright Language Teaching Assistantship. He spent that year teaching Arabic at the University of Maine and came back from 2018-2019 to participate in a one-year exchange program for Saudi teachers, Building Leadership for Change through School Immersion, at Arizona State University. Alotaibi chatted with UVA Global on his varied experiences in the U.S., his teaching, and his plans for the future.

What inspired you to pursue a Fulbright fellowship in the U.S. and how has it shaped your academic and professional journey?

Alotaibi: Coming from Saudi Arabia, I was eager to immerse myself in a new cultural and academic environment. The Fulbright Language Teaching Assistantship provided an exceptional opportunity to not only share my native language and culture but also to learn from American students and educators. This experience ignited my passion for cross-cultural exchange and fueled my desire to further my education in linguistics. It significantly shaped my academic and professional journey by broadening my perspectives, enhancing my communication skills, and fostering a deeper appreciation for diversity in both educational and cultural contexts.

Alotaibi leading a training course for Saudi teachers.

Tell us about your experiences teaching languages both in the U.S. and in Saudi Arabia. What are some of the insights you’ve gained from teaching in these diverse cultural contexts?

Alotaibi: Each context presents unique challenges and opportunities, requiring educators to tailor their approaches to accommodate the cultural backgrounds and learning styles of their students. I’ve realized that the ability to tailor instructional methods, adjust lesson plans, and incorporate diverse perspectives is essential for meaningful engagement and comprehension. In Saudi Arabia, where English is not the first language for many students, navigating language barriers requires thoughtful consideration of instructional materials and additional language support. Conversely, in the U.S, clarity and simplicity in language are crucial for ensuring accessibility to all students learning Arabic. Interacting with students and educators from diverse backgrounds has afforded me a window into their worldviews, experiences, and cognitive frameworks. In essence, my journey through diverse cultural landscapes has deepened my appreciation for the transformative power of education.

Tell us about your teaching philosophy.

Alotaibi: As a language instructor, I believe that language is a great tool for communication and connection. My philosophy is centered around creating a positive and safe environment where students feel comfortable and encouraged to challenge themselves to be better. I believe that language learning is a cooperative process and that students learn better when they're engaged in meaningful and authentic activities. I'm an advocate for learner-centered instruction and I strive to meet the individual needs of my students and consider their different learning styles. Also, I believe that learning a foreign language should be fun! By creating a fun and pleasurable classroom, students are more likely to take ownership of their learning and to develop their growth mindsets. Finally, I will always remind myself and my students of the fact that tomorrow we will be better learners and better versions of ourselves than today!

What drew you to pursue an MA in Linguistics and why did you choose UVA

Alotaibi: My journey towards pursuing an MA in Linguistics was driven by a profound curiosity about languages and their mechanics. Language, to me, represents more than just a means of communication. It's a window into understanding human cognition, culture, and society. When considering where to further my studies, UVA emerged as a compelling choice for several reasons. Firstly, their linguistics program has a strong reputation and excellent faculty. I wanted to learn from experts in the field, which has been the case in the past two years. Secondly, I liked the sense of community at UVA and the opportunity to collaborate with fellow students. This community is a great environment for sharing ideas and learning from other perspectives. Lastly, Charlottesville seemed like a great place to live with its vibrant culture and beautiful surroundings. So, it was an easy decision to make for my academic destination!

Language, to me, represents more than just a means of communication. It's a window into understanding human cognition, culture, and society.

What are your current research interests and projects?

Alotaibi: My current research interests and projects encompass two primary areas: authentic learning in language classrooms and teacher preparation courses. These pursuits are directly intertwined with my decision to pursue a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate alongside my MA in Linguistics at UVA. In exploring authentic learning, I investigate the integration of real-world experiences tailored to students' interests and needs, aligning closely with the practical teaching strategies emphasized in TESOL training. This approach involves incorporating authentic materials, tasks, and contexts into language instruction to enhance language proficiency and cultural competence among learners. It's all about creating meaningful and real-world experiences for students to enhance their language skills. My research in teacher preparation courses focuses on innovative approaches to equipping educators for diverse classrooms, a goal reinforced by the instructive insights gained from TESOL coursework. I believe in equipping educators with the necessary tools and strategies to create engaging and effective language learning environments.

Tell us about your experience at UVA. What advice would you give a new international student?

Alotaibi: My experience at UVA has been incredibly rewarding both academically and personally. The faculty in the Anthropology department and at CAELC are dedicated to helping me succeed. They have offered support and mentorship every step of the way. My courses in linguistics have provided me with a strong foundation in theoretical and applied linguistics, allowing me to explore various linguistic phenomena and research methodologies. It has really been a transformative and unforgettable experience, and I am grateful for the many memories and friendships I made during my time here.

For new international students, I would advise immersing themselves in campus life, seeking out mentorship and support networks, and embracing the diversity of perspectives and experiences that UVA has to offer. Also, they should not hesitate to reach out to faculty, staff, and fellow students for guidance and support, and make the most of their time by actively engaging in extracurricular activities and cultural exchange opportunities. It's also important to take the time to explore Charlottesville and its surroundings as they offer a rich mix of history and outdoor activities to enjoy.

What are your next steps?

Alotaibi: Completing the MA program in Linguistics at UVA with a TESOL certificate opens up a multitude of opportunities for my academic and professional journey. One possible next step is to pursue a career in teaching English as a second language, whether it be at a language school or at the university level. I am also considering opportunities to further my studies through further advanced studies, such as a PhD in Linguistics or Applied Linguistics, to deepen your knowledge and research in the field. Another possible step would be to utilize my TESOL certificate to take on roles in language assessment, teacher training, or materials development in Saudi Arabia. I am unsure of what the future holds, but I am eager to explore the opportunities that await me upon finishing up my time at UVA.