By Melissa Toscano
October 5, 2004

He is studying a complex and important language: Arabic. Ian Livingston is currently enrolled in his third semester of Arabic, at the University of Connecticut, Storrs. A Political Science major, he looks forward to continuing his studies in Arabic as a graduate student, next fall.

Why study Arabic? Do you enjoy a challenge?

Study Arabic because of the change that occurred on September the 11th. The United States needs more people who are fluent in Arabic. Part of the fun is the challenge, I suppose. No one else speaks it.

Sounds like you find this area of study exciting.

I do find it exciting. Almost every day, the American news channels show video feeds from Arabic media. At this point, after a year of studies, I can pick out many words and phrases. I know that there are not many people throughout the country that can make sense of what they are seeing. And it feels good to know that someday I will be able to help explain what we are witnessing.

Let’s put those language skills to use: how does one say “hello” in Arabic?

“Marhaaba,” if I want to say hello, or “Ahlaan Wa Sahlaan,” if I choose to say “welcome.”

What you study is obviously important, but do you ever feel as though you can’t handle the course load?

Yes, I feel that way all the time. It is difficult, but there are new rewards every day.

Do you think that more students should consider this area of study? Why is it so important that American students learn Arabic?

Yes, I do. Last week a report came out that the government has over one hundred-thousand hours of un-translated foreign material. Another recent article stated that Arabic has become one of the fastest growing languages throughout colleges in this country. It is important that American students learn Arabic because our country is involved in a war, where the enemy speaks a foreign language. In order for the United States to fully grasp what we are up against, we must look at things through the point of view of the enemy.

Sounds like you keep up with current events: how have your studies in Arabic shaped your conception of geopolitics?

Part of studying Arabic is learning the culture of Arabs and Muslims. In many ways their culture is very different than that of the western world. The more I learn about their ways and beliefs, the more I feel that the general population misunderstands the way things are.

Here’s a hot topic: what are your opinions on the war in Iraq?

I think the war in Iraq is a just war that has been mishandled. The situation is very complex, and it seems as if certain foreign policy experts did not fully research the possible outcomes of the invasion. I think Iraq gives us an important intelligence gathering center in the Middle East. While there is no certain proof that Iraq was involved in the war on terror, in order for the United States to gather information, we need a foothold in the region.

Do you think that your foreign language skills will prove useful in the future? What is the practical application of Arabic studies?

Yes, I do think that they will prove useful. I would like to use any skills I acquire in order to do my part in protecting the country. In a job environment I would hope to translate media or possibly work as an American ambassador to the Middle East.

Sounds like a plan. Have you made any new friends over the course of your studies?

I have several acquaintances. The Muslims that I have met on campus have been some of the kindest people I have met at the University of Connecticut. My teacher for the first year of studies was a student himself, and he graciously gave his time and effort to enhance the learning process. The other students that I have met through him have also been willing to help whenever possible.

What you are working on right now?

This is my final year, so I am completing my degree requirements. Besides Arabic, I am taking a class on national and international security, and a class on recent American diplomacy in the Middle East. I am also working on several projects of my own relating to the subjects I just discussed.

How does one say “thank you” in Arabic?

“Shoukran.”

“Shoukran” Ian, it has been a pleasure interviewing you.

You’re welcome. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to discuss my interests.