Day 26: Posting from my hotel for the first time! And other great insights

            Today was a very eye-opening experience for me that gave me my first significant insight into Syrian culture and politics. Our schedule was packed with meetings; the first one was a dialogue with students at Damascus University. The topic of discussion was “stereotypes,” and we had a very passionate conversation about what Syrians think of Americans and vice versa. Many stereotypes were brought up by both sides, but the most important insight I got out of our dialogue was how strongly Syrians want to engage America—both its politics and its people.

            This sentiment was also expressed in our next meeting with the President of Damascus University. He gave us an overview of the school then opened the floor for Q&A. One thing that was discussed that I never knew about was the Syrian Accountability Act recently passed in the U.S. This act makes life in Syria very difficult for civilians as they are cut off from many products made in the U.S. due to sanctions the U.S. has put on Syria. I’m not sure what the goal of these sanctions is, but they have prevented Syria from importing things like medical equipment, plane engine parts to update their non-military airplanes, and many internet sites and technological necessities. Criticizing Syria for its lack of internet availability and Facebook now makes me feel ignorant since many people here seem eager to engage in these new communication technologies but are restricted because of U.S. Laws.

            Our third meeting was with the Minister of Higher Education. He clarified a lot of our questions about how the University system works, but often digressed into politics—mostly about how the education system here could be better if Syria didn’t have to allocate so many funds to defense against Israel.

            At all of our meetings we’ve been met with incredible hospitality (and some amazing beverages such as fresh fruit juices and VERY strong Turkish coffee). At the Ministry of Higher Education we even got t-shirts and baseball caps. Many people here seem eager to make a good impression on us because there is so little dialogue between Syria and the U.S., and they are doing a great job so far—and seem very genuine in their desire to change the way our countries and cultures interact, even if its only one step at a time.

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