has interest in teaching, although she is unsure of in what capacity. Kurtis’ degree is less specific to filling a particular need, and more about providing an opportunity to make connections with Jordanians and invest in the community. “Since my degree is concentrated in History and Global Studies there are a variety of job opportunities that can be potential avenues,” he said. “Being proficient in Arabic may enable me to work for Canadian embassies and consulates in the region. There are also a large variety of Non-Government Organizations and International Schools in Jordan where I may be able to find work in administration, tutoring, or humanitarian work. Ideally, I’d love to be there, identify a development project, partner with Jordanians, and start a business that creates jobs. Then when it’s time to leave, my Jordanian partners can take over our work and there will be a lasting communal development that transcends the period of time I will invest in the community.” “As long as I’m living there, learning the language, investing deeply into cross- cultural relationships, I want to get to the point where I’m able to engage in a lot of inter-religious dialogue—whether it be with Arab Christians or Muslims. I just want to invest in that community. The work is meant to allow me to stay there. It’s kind of a means to an end.” Kurtis and Kelsey liken this step of faith to diving off a diving board. “We have these ideas; we have these hopes, and ambitions. Are they going to work out? I don’t know. That’s part of the faith we’re taking in going,” Kurtis said. Although they are unsure of what is in store after this coming year of Arabic study, Kurtis and Kelsey see it as a beneficial and worthwhile endeavor, regardless of whether it is just for a year or longer. Not only is the experience extremely enriching, but knowing Arabic and having the cultural insight can help them to be bridge-builders here in Canada between newcomers and locals. They are passionate about being a voice for Arabs in Canada and taking a stand against assumptions made about them. “I lived there. I have relationships with them and I’ll stand firm that that’s not who they are,’” Kurtis said. “I have Muslim friends and they feel completely mortified that what they see on the news is representing Islam to the west,” Kelsey added. “We’re doing this because we’re fighting against prejudices and predispositions,” Kurtis said. Kurtis and Kelsey want to help Canadians gain a better understanding of immigrants and work to create a culture that is more hospitable. They also desire to help newcomers live well in Canada.