I was an Early Decision I applicant because that’s how sure I was about attending NYU Abu Dhabi. I didn’t even feel like I had to prepare for the possible “Why NYUAD” question during my Candidate Weekend interview because I knew I could authentically answer it.
My 12-year-old self would have been surprised at this. I first visited NYUAD while accompanying my older sister, who was considering applying. I didn’t fall in love with the campus on first impression. It was the height of summer, and the campus was quiet because most students had left for the holidays. College still felt too distant to imagine. As it became a more frequent topic around the dinner table, I found myself thinking about NYUAD again. Except this time, I gave it a fair second look and did actual research into this university.
Second time’s the charm
The more I learned, the more I realized how much I had missed on my first visit. What helped make my decision easier was how interdisciplinary NYUAD is and that I get to explore my different interests without feeling like I had to pick one of them. The icing on top is that I get to engage with a global community while in close geographical proximity to my home in Amman, Jordan.
Growing up in Amman gave me limited exposure to people from similar cultural and linguistic backgrounds. While I love my environment, everyday discussions could easily become an echo chamber. NYUAD’s diverse community appeals to me because I want to be surrounded by people who challenge the way I think and introduce me to perspectives I haven’t considered before. The relatively small student body creates a close-knit environment where I can genuinely get to know my professors and classmates. Together, these things made NYUAD feel like the right place for me.
Exploring my options
While applying to the literature program, it stood out to me that it was literature instead of English literature. The idea of studying literature across different languages, cultures, and traditions aligns with my vision that literature should not be confined to one part of the world. I’m especially excited about being able to explore Arabic literature and perspectives.
I plan to explore my options before committing to a major. Besides my passion for writing and analyzing, I’ve developed a strong interest in both economics and computer science too. I look forward to taking classes in all three areas and perhaps double majoring, minoring, or combining these subjects in different ways.
On the surface, these subjects seem different yet I’m excited by the possibility of finding connections between them. More than anything, I’m looking forward to taking classes that introduce me to subjects I haven’t considered yet, especially through the core curriculum.
Looking ahead
My family is truly my support system and the strongest part of me; I wouldn’t have made it to NYUAD without them. Both my parents came during Marhaba week to help me settle in. It means everything to have them here and to be able to share this milestone. They have supported me throughout the entire journey and through every step of the application process.
A big part of my university experience will include stepping out of my comfort zone and that’s something I look forward to. Personally, I hope to become more independent and self-reliant, and find people to surround myself with who support me while also simultaneously exposing me to different perspectives.
