One of the many reasons that I chose to come to the Netherland was because the Fulbright Program here had no language requirement. Other countries, like France and Spain, required applicants to speak the native language at a high level. I had taken French in high school and a year of Arabic during my freshman year of college, but I knew this was not enough to pass the test, and that I would need to find a country without a language requirement. The Netherlands was on that list because the country's primary and secondary schools are required to teach their students English. Many Dutch young people watch American television shows and movies with subtitles as well, which helps them with their English language skills.
I was so glad when Fulbright accepted my application. I knew that I wouldn't have to worry about the language barrier as much, but that didn't mean I would integrate into the Dutch community seamlessly. Since coming to the Netherlands, many Dutch people have asked me why I decided to come here instead of going "somewhere more interesting." While this tendency to downplay how interesting this country and culture is can divert this conversation elsewhere, I still try to tell them that I knew I could get used to, and ultimately enjoy being a part of, this community.
