Majed Alrowaithy

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Computer Science—Graduate student

Majed Alrowaithy arrived in Kalamazoo on January 10, 2006 and entered the advanced level of WMU’s Career English Language Center for International Students.

Majed earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from King Abdul Aziz University in 2002, and then worked for the Saudi Arabian government, which awarded him a full scholarship for his graduate studies at WMU.

He said friends already studying at Western helped him make the choice of where to pursue his graduate degree.

“When I first came, it was very difficult—everything is so different,” Majed said. “I have some friends here who came before me and they helped me. The weather was most challenging, since 50 degrees is about the coolest it ever gets in Jeddah. But I got used to it, and the CELCIS classes have prepared me to take graduate courses.”

Already a CELCIS graduate, Majed began working on his master’s degree in May, enrolling in three Summer I courses. With a wife, Manal, at home, and a first child expected in June 2006, Majed is eager to complete his degree in two years and return to his government position.

He said navigating around Kalamazoo is fairly easy utilizing the Metro bus system that is free for WMU students. Extracurricular trips planned by the CELCIS office have introduced Majed to skiing, Chicago, and Washington D.C.

“On these trips you have the chance to meet other students and learn about American culture,” he said. “I was amazed by the number of museums in Washington, and I really liked the skyscrapers and the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. I encourage all my friends to go on these trips.”

Majed said his biggest surprise about American culture is the friendly nature of most of the people he meets.

“I thought everyone would be busy with work and studying,” he said. “Anytime I need anything, I just go and ask for help and everyone on campus is very helpful.”

Majed visited Washington D.C. with a group of international students over spring break.