Having an interest in the Middle East and Central Asia, I was drawn towards CAIS Bachelor of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies due to its interdisciplinary approach to understanding the region. This new degree, taught within a small centre, allows for flexibility and opportunity to study an extensive range of subjects. First year courses such as ‘Introduction to the Modern Middle East’ have helped me develop a greater appreciation of the vast complexities of the region through studying the diverse history, politics and social climates which shape nations and define many modern conflicts. Undertaking Persian as my language major has also been a challenging and rewarding experience resulting in an understanding of Iranian culture and customs as well as language.

Due to the uniqueness of this degree as an undergraduate program and the passionate way in which it is taught by the staff of the Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies I feel I am establishing strong foundations upon which I may pursue a career within a number of disciplines in relation to the to the Middle East and Central Asia.