Page 21 - ASC Highlights Spring 24-25

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Our Journey with the

Academic Success Center

Since joining the Academic Success Center (ASC), our university experience has been enriched in ways we
never imagined. As peer mentors, peer tutors, course assistants, and Arabic Circle presenters, we’ve been
fortunate to take on diverse roles that have helped us grow while making a meaningful impact on our
community.

Nearly two years ago, we found ourselves wondering about how non-Arabs in our university could benefit
from a welcoming space to practice conversational Arabic. We believed in the idea deeply and brought it
to the ASC team, who embraced it with enthusiasm. That spark led to the creation of the Arabic Speaking
Circle, a simple initiative that started with students and quickly expanded to include our esteemed ADU
faculty.

What began as a small student-led effort has grown into a vibrant community. Our weekly sessions are
more than language lessons, they’re interactive, enjoyable gatherings that foster cultural exchange, build
confidence, and form real connections between Arabic and non-Arabic speakers. Seeing participants speak
Arabic with comfort, ask thoughtful questions, and engage with one another has been one of the most
rewarding parts of our journey.

From this beautiful initiative, we were inspired to dream bigger. That’s how the idea for Tawasol came to life.
We thought: Why not expand this beyond the campus? Why not create a space where anyone, anywhere,
could access Arabic in an interactive, and meaningful way? Although Tawasol is still in its early stages,
we truly hope to see it grow into something impactful. It represents everything we believe in; inclusion,
connection, and the power of language to break down barriers.

Through all of this, we’ve grown immensely developing leadership, communication, and collaboration skills
while gaining confidence in ourselves and our vision. More importantly, we’ve learned that a small idea,
when nurtured with support and passion, can grow into something truly special.

We are deeply grateful to the Academic Success Center for giving us the space, encouragement, and trust
to make a difference. And we’re excited to keep building this journey together.

Dareen Ahmad , Heba Naba
Peer Mentor

Abu Dhabi University | ASC Highlights 24-25 Spring 24-25