American universities have long recognized the value of diversity not just in promoting equality

of opportunity and justice by inclusion of historically excluded groups, but in fostering dialogue

that challenges both assumptions, presumptions, and biases. Apart from why I chose to major in

Computer Science, my being grounded and conversant in two very different cultures gives me

not just perspectives from both but a broader sense of just how cultural dialogue and interaction

and dialogue happen in the real world. Finally the specific identity of two cultures - American

and Arab - and their current problematic interaction makes clear how my contribution and

engagement is something that can be increasingly valuable as international and regional tensions

remain a threat to peace and security. One place to start in clarifying this is to correct a statement

I just may have made in error. When I speak of an Arab culture that is a gross over-

generalization. There are many common threads of culture and history that Arabic-speaking

people share, but we are certainly not a monolithic culture or even language. There are many

dialects in Arabic, some almost mutually incomprehensible. American language instruction can

give the impression that Modern Standard Arabic is the "real" Arabic language. Although it

represents a widely understood standard, it does not communicate the diversity of Arabic

cultures. As an inhabitant of Yemen I speak one of several dialects used within Yemen. I fear that

idea of one Arab identity leads Americans to make the generalizations they often do about

something they call the "Arab world" or "Arab culture" or even an "Arab world view." Arab

cultures are just similar enough to make a little knowledge about us dangerous! In my recent

volunteer work in Yemen I have had to appreciate and bridge subtle cultural differences that

others might miss. I know how to look for those in ways others often might not. As a U.S. citizen

born abroad (Yemen) who also considers himself to a large extent an American, looking at how

Americans embrace diversity and inclusion and tolerance as open principles is inspiring. It is a
wonderful way the U.S. tries to re-invent itself and live up to democracy where so many other

societies do not. But enough with the generalizations - it is time to address where I can contribute

and what I hope to learn besides Computer Science. I am from Yemen and I just got married.

That was an expression of optimism in the face of the war and strife troubling my ancestral land.

To discuss all the conflicts and problems would be tedious and inappropriate here (you read the

newspapers, I'm sure), but my dual cultural identity requires me to be of service to both cultures.

My own life provides a personal example of the challenges because in 2006 my father

decided to bring me to the U.S. to continue my education. I had to teach myself everything from

scratch, without guidance from relatives who have experience in this country, I encountered

many challenges and setbacks; one of which was learning the English language, and many other

challenges. Despite strong attempts from family members to stop school and focus on supporting

the family financially. I fought and challenged myself to make it to where I am today.

I chose this major because from an early age Ive always been deeply interested in

computing. It was my teacher introducing me to the computer systems during class that first

sparked this interest. This interest never left me, only growing more profound and passionate

with every new discovery I made. It is a goal I must achieve. I want to be able to contribute to

the only two countries I adore the most. In solving problems, protecting people, furthering

education and improving solutions for a better future. I am eager to begin more learning and

more work at the University of Washington.