On the other side of an ELL Program

I was an English Language Learner (ELL) when my family moved to the United States when I was six years old. I had English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers that I worked with for years, and to this day I am thankful for what they did for me. I would not have been able…

On the Importance of Family

Al-Bustan Camp went by in an instant, one brief and sweltering moment of drumming, Arabic, geometric patterns and soccer in 100-degree heat. Now, a few days after the final performance, I’ve had the time to reflect more deeply on what these two weeks, and this past year, have taught me.

Al-Bustan Camp: An Adventure!

Last Friday was the end of Al-Bustan Camp. We concluded the program with a great showcase. The campers, with the help of teachers and counselors, showcased what they’ve learned in the two weeks at camp.

Reflections on Al-Bustan Camp

Marhaba! My name is Hannah Erdogan, and I will be beginning my college career at the University of Pennsylvania this fall majoring in Middle Eastern Studies and Pre-Medicine. I have attended Al-Bustan Summer Camp since I was six years old, and I have grown to love the diverse and all-accepting community that Al-Bustan Camp fosters…

A Birthday and Continued Wonder on Camp’s Second Day

  The second day of the camp continued in high spirits. It was so good, in fact, that we began by celebrating Makken’s 6th birthday with “happy birthday” sung in English, Arabic (سنة حلوة يا جميل, which literally translates to “a sweet year you beautiful one”), Spanish, French, and even Ukranian! You can be sure the day will be enjoyable…