Dana Arneal

Salaam! My name is Dana Arneal, and I studied at the University of Mississippi with majors in Arabic and Psychology. I found myself studying Arabic after deciding I wanted to major in a critical language, I concluded that I had the most interest in Arab culture, especially given that I grew up with an Egyptian friend and always felt very warmly welcomed by her mother. Through the Arabic Flagship, I have been able to take advantage of many studies abroad opportunities, including two summers in Jordan as well as the privilege I currently have to study in Meknes, Morocco to finish the Capstone element of the Flagship program. Moreover, the Flagship staff at my home university were without a doubt some of the most qualified and passionate teachers I've ever had the opportunity to study under, and I always felt that our lessons were well-rounded and individualized. In the years that follow my graduation as an Arabic Flagship student, I am excited to be able to name this program on my resume and take the wealth of cultural experiences I've been gifted and apply them to future work goals I have, potentially in the field of mental health support for refugees. Outside of the professional sphere, the possible personal endeavors that have opened up for me due to this language and this program are nearly endless, and I feel all the richer for it.