Qalam wa Lawh Center for Arabic Studies

Qalam wa Lawh was an excellent institute to study the Arabic language, and I did enjoy my time there. Prior to my enrollment in the program, my language skills were somewhat at the beginner level. However, upon completion, I do feel an immense improvement in my Arabic studies. Also, the extra-curricular activities provided by the institute served as an important resource to help boost the Arabic language skills of students.

Some pros of studying at this institute are: it is situated in the safest city in Morocco, Rabat, the institute has some paid excursions or trips that allow students to explore other parts of the country, and lastly, the staff are willing and dedicated to helping students learn and practice the Arabic language.

On the contrary, one thing I disliked about studying Arabic in Morocco that the institute has no control over was the difficulties of implementing or practicing Fusha Arabic outside class. This is due to most locals usually prefer to express themselves in their local dialect, Darija or French. Finally, housing with a host family which I did in Morocco is a hit-or-miss, i.e., some students had a great family and others not.