How Living in the Middle East Prepared My Son for Middle School

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On a beautiful morning in Vermont, my son stood eagerly at the bus stop, ready for his first day of middle school. He radiated confidence, a stark contrast to the typical nerves one might expect before such a big transition. Despite facing the unknowns of a new school without any friends nearby, he appeared completely at ease, even when a butterfly briefly perched on his head.

What contributed to my son’s calm demeanor? His experiences from the previous year in the Middle East.

In 2014, my son Alex and I were racing through Abu Dhabi in a taxi, the temperature soaring to 120 degrees as we navigated the bustling streets. Alex was about to enter the American International School of Abu Dhabi (AISA), a vast institution hosting students from over 80 countries. As we arrived, I frantically applied sunscreen to protect him from the harsh sun, fully aware that once he crossed those gates, he would be on his own.

The environment at AISA turned out to be a mix of camaraderie and challenge. By the second day, Alex faced the harsh reality that not everyone welcomed Americans, even in an American school. A fellow student from Egypt threatened him, prompting Alex to realize that he needed to make a conscious effort to build bridges and foster friendships. He even requested that the vice principal refrain from punishing the boy who had threatened him, an admirable decision that highlighted his desire for understanding.

In late September, we relocated to an apartment on Al Reem Island, where I began a new job in communications at Khalifa University. Alex had to adjust to an early bus schedule, leaving home at 6:25 a.m. for a lengthy commute. I watched with mixed emotions as he boarded bus No. 7 each day, traveling to a school that was not explicitly marked as “American International School.” My anxiety heightened when I received a notification from the Embassy about a potential threat targeting international schools in the region.

Despite the unsettling news, my husband, a director at Abu Dhabi’s New York Film Academy, and I decided to stay, understanding that while dangers exist everywhere, we would gain invaluable experiences by remaining in the UAE. Tragically, in December, a violent crime occurred close to home, deeply affecting the community. The swift apprehension of the perpetrator and the government’s commitment to safety provided some reassurance, yet I continued to send Alex off to school each day.

As Alex celebrated his 11th birthday in the spring of 2015, his guest list reflected the diversity of his friendships, including children from Kenya, Russia, and notably, his friend Samir from Syria. It made me ponder the challenges Samir’s family faced to find safety in our new home. We persevered through the school year, aided by Sharif, a reliable driver who ensured Alex’s safe travels after school activities.

On June 12, when we left Abu Dhabi for good, Alex enthusiastically read Arabic signs from the van window as we navigated the city one last time. It was only when he boarded bus No. 21 for his American middle school in Vermont that I felt certain we had made the right choice in spending a year in the Middle East. For more insights on parenting and related topics, you can explore additional resources such as this informative blog on our privacy policy and couples’ fertility journey.

In summary, my son’s experiences abroad not only prepared him for middle school but also fostered resilience, empathy, and understanding of diverse cultures. This journey has enriched his life and shaped his outlook as he navigates new challenges.