Ali Beydoun with his family |
DEARBORN— Every year, thousands of college students enthusiastically return their textbooks and dispose of their notes in anticipation of graduation. As the Arab American population continues to establish itself in local communities, the names of an increasing number of Arab American graduates are read out loud at commencement ceremonies.
Universities have graciously accepted the ethnic group, as diversity has become a vital lifeblood to the prosperity of these institutions.
John Corvino, professor and chair of the philosophy department at Wayne State University, who read the names of walking graduates during this spring’s commencement, said diversity is the university’s greatest strength.
“The strong, visible presence of Arab American students is one of our distinctive strengths,” Corvino said. “That strength is increasingly noticeable at commencement.”
David Strauss, dean of students at WSU, said “the Arab American student community adds so much vibrancy and involvement to campus life and campus activities.”
Hashim Altawil, chair of the art history department and advisor to the Arab Student Union at Henry Ford College, said while the school does not track Arab American students, he estimates that 30 percent of the college’s students are of Arab descent.
“I feel very proud when I see my students who are handling a job or two and coming to college and doing very well,” Altawil said.
“I also see female Arab American students, many of them are mothers and have children and are doing just excellent, taking classes. There is something in the culture of Arab American student that pushes them to excel in academics.”
Ali Beydoun, University of Michigan-Dearborn, major in criminal justice:
“I was actually happier for my parents than for myself when I graduated because as I got older, I began to appreciate more the sacrifices my parents made just so I had the opportunity to get an education. Their hard work finally paid off for them.
“I felt relieved, yet a little nervous as I approached graduation. Once they announce your name on stage and they hand you your diploma, any feelings of unease are suddenly replaced with pure joy. It was an awesome feeling, to say the least.
“College is a very influential part of a person’s life, so cherish every moment of it. Take advantage of the diverse number of students and make as many friends as you can. Lastly, hard work always pays off.”
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