Hey guys,
New to the forum, but have read through some of the posts.
I am going to be applying for the Boren Award this upcoming Febuary.
I have a problem I would like someones opinion on.
In terms of choosing country...
I have set my eyes on Egypt, Cairo and have found the university I would be applying to (AUC).
But recently though, I thought that it might be better to study abroad in my country of specialty.
Russia.
I am first generation Russian and speak fluent Russian. I have taken 2 years of formal language to bring my writing and reading up to speed.
Now my dilemma is that if I apply towards the Boren Award for Egypt with no prior knowledge of Arabic or the culture, I may not be that competitive. Russia would make more sense since I have travelled there before and understand the language and culture very well.
On the other hand, because I have such a good ground in Russia. It is time for me to move on to another region and gain language and culture experience in Egypt.
I am just trying to see what NSEP would rather have me do. Would it be more beneficial for me to continue my study in Russian culture or break out and study in Egypt?
And what would make me more competitive? Egypt or Russia?