Weezy11

Ha! That definitely changes things ... Judging by your post, it sounded like you had no exposure to the Middle East. I think, having already achieved the language competency, you could apply directly to the programs I mentioned. Make sure you make clear in your statement of purpose why you studied finance, and what your aspirations are. And make sure you stress your language ability and experience. Depending on your SOP, GPA, GRE, and recs, you could also apply to a few more selective programs, like UM, NYU, UChicago, Georgetown. I'd say that if you're a native Arabic speaker, your job prospects are quite different than the rest of us. I'm working on Arabic, but since fluency is a long, long ways off for me, my opportunities are somewhat circumscribed. If you can pass a background check, for instance, you're essentially guaranteed a position in the military or intelligence community. Something like that will probably net you in the $50 to $100 K range. If you're interested in working in business, I'm sure there are some opportunities in that, though I'm unfamiliar with the specifics and what kind of pay you might earn. Good luck, and let me know if you need anything else.

As of now, I don't think your chances are that good, for the reasons samarkand mentioned. But if you're serious about it, I would recommend studying in the Middle East for the 2011-12 academic year, preferably at a university (e.g., AUC, AUB, Hebrew University, University of Jordan) where you could take language and area studies courses, and perhaps get a certificate. AUC also has an ME Studies master's program you might be able to get into. If you can get a year of language under your belt, you could probably apply to some schools in the states -- I would recommend Indiana, Washington, Arizona and Texas. Good luck, and let me know if you have any questions.