ELI Newspaper Spring 2013, Issue 1 online at eli.gmu.edu
THE ELI MIRROR President’s Day at the ELI
Article written by Noha Photograph fro m ELI webpage
ELI students at the president day’s reception with Dr. Angel Cabrera
Contents ELI News
p 1-2
Movies
p 3-5
Culture
p 1-14
Relaxation
p15-16
Healthy lifestyle
p 17-18
Sports
p 19-20
President’s day marks a special day in the United States. It’s a day created to celebrate George Washington’s (the first president of the United states) birthday. Last President’s day, George Mason University’s president Dr. Angel Cabrera extended an invitation to all the international students in the English Language Institute at the Johnson center. He was very friendly and
spoke to us with a smile on his face. He greeted us and shook hands with everyone. He shared with us his story of how he learned the English language when he came here from Spain. He stressed the importance of practicing English in order to improve. He was accompanied by his wife who he said helped him a lot in learning the language as she is an American.
Later on he gave out books he authored to some of the students as gifts. This small celebration made everyone’s day because it gave us hope and encouraged us even more to work harder to learn the English language.
Dr. Angel Cabrera
ELI FIELD TRIPS The ELI Mirror Spring 2013 Issue 1, p 2
LI trip to Madam Tusaud’s Wax Museum written by Noha, Abrar & HaeSung
NB trip to the NRA Gun Museum written by Abdullah,, Abdulrahman, Cheongyu, Hamdan, Hasan, Lin Lin, Mansour, and Tariq,
In the beginning of each semester, the ELI organizes a field trip with core classes. Our LI teacher decided to take us to China Town to Madam Tusaud’s Wax Museum It has branches in different parts of the world such as London which is the largest and most famous. The museum has wax replicas of presidents and celebrities in various fields, such as actors and singers from the US. During the trip we took lots of pictures with American presidents and celebrities like George
Washington, Abraham Lincoln, President Obama and his wife, Michael Jackson, Angelina Jolie, and Tom Cruise. After we finished visiting the museum., we all had lunch in one of the famous restaurants in China Town. Trips add to your knowledge and information, Also it is exciting and interesting. It also gives you a chance to meet you’re your class mates and get to know them closely. And this trip was even more special because it was Abrar’s birthday!
The NB class went to the NRA Museum for our field trip. We met at Starbucks at 11:00 am, but we were delayed 45 minutes because some students were late At the museum we saw many kinds of guns from very old ones to recent ones. We saw some strange guns. Some were very small – as small as a thumb. There was a pistol with a knife blade. Also we saw a Nazi belt buckle gun. There were many old and expensive weapons including shot guns, pistols and rifles from England and Italy. We came across a machine gun like the one our classmate Cheongyu used when he was in the Korean navy. We saw the real weapons used by actors and actresses in films in Hollywood. Then we bought souvenirs in the gift store. Last we ate lunch at the museum cafeteria, and then we came back to the university. It was an interesting day.
HI trip to Ballston Mall Ice Skating Rink written by Shatha. Afraa, Mohamed & Youssef
HI trip to Sully Plantation Written by Doaa Alrefaei Maha Alghuraibi
LA trip to Fairfax Bowling Written by Jessica & Xiao
After a long discussion, my friends and I finally decided to go ice-skating at Ballston Mall on our HI class field trip. First, we all were so afraid to try this new kind of entertainment, but we took a step and did it. Although we fell and hurt ourselves a little, it was an exciting and unforgettable day. After hours of falling, we started to feel hungry. Therefore, our teachers divided us into two groups; Kate’s group went to Noodles, and our group went to Panera with our amazing teacher Steve. During that time we had a lot of fun; we talked, laughed, and ate.
Thomas’ HI class went to the historical Sully Plantation house which is located in Chantilly in Virginia. This house exhibits the lifestyle in the colonial decade. Sully house has special features that impressed us. There are small houses around the main house where the slaves lived. Our classmates met with a tour guide who explained every room and how the family dealt with
their lives. The house contains seven rooms. The master bedroom was the most beautiful place with comfortable wooden furniture and lots of color
In our LA field trip, we went to the AMF and Fairfax Bowling. It was a wonderful day! At the beginning, we changed shoes, and chose the ball which we could hold. Then we practiced it. Finally, we had two teams, and we had a competition between them. Although we were not good at bowling, I got one strike. We enjoyed great American style food (pizza burger, fried chicken…), and we had a great time.
BEST MOVIE IN 2013 THROUGH MASON EYES
Issue 1, p 3
The ELI Mirror students did a survey at George Mason University after the Oscars. They wanted to see what the students thought about the best movie and best actors and actresses.
Written by:
The survey showed that most of the male students choose Argo as the best picture. This was the winner in the Oscars.
The ELI Mirror Spring 2013
Shuruq Alharthi and Majedh Alsewaiah
On the other hand most of the females thought that Life of Pi should have won best picture at the Oscars. Very few students , especially females, agreed with the Oscar choice of Daniel day-Lewis for best actor. Hugh Jackman (in Les Miserable) won the vote for best actor among the women. While Bradley Cooper (Silver Linings Playbook) and Daniel DayLewis (Lincoln), and Denzel Washington (Flight) were voted in equal proportions as the second place best actor. However, most males voted for Denzel Washington
and after that came Daniel Day-Lewis in second place. Joaquin Phoenix (The Master) got none of the male vote and only two women (out of 53 total) voted for him . The majority of both male and female students agreed that Jennifer Lawrence (Silver Linings Playbook) deserved the Oscar for Best Actress. Most of the male students thought that Spielberg should have won Best Director for Lincoln But the females agreed with the Oscars that Ang Lee deserved the Oscar for Best Director. The female students didn't like Beasts of the Southern Wild very much, and this movie got no votes for Best Movie or
Best Director and Quvenzhane’ Wallis only got four votes from females for best actress in this movie. On the other hand, the males didn't like Silver Lining Playbook very much. None of them voted for it for Best Picture or Best Director and only four voted for Bradley Cooper for Best Actor in this movie. However, they did like Jennifer Lawrence who was their pick for Best Actress. The survey showed another surprising fact. Males like to watch the movies in the movie theater and on TV or on their computer or smart phone in equal proportions. However, most of the females preferred to watch movies on their computers or smart phones.
IT STARTED WITH MY SHIP ELI MIRROR LIFE
Spring 2013 Issue 1, p 4
MARYAM
Firstly, I want to introduce myself My Name is Maryam. I am from SAUDI ARABIA. I might be at the far point of the earth. So, watching movies is the easiest way for me to sail around the world, by my little ship “movies”.
from diverse countries.
languages at the same time.
Moreover, I believe that, watching movies will help me to have an idea and capture the other side of the world. Also, I would love to learn different
Although, I might not see these people in real life, all kinds of situations I watched, might has an impact on me, and most of my time I learned from it.
As Christopher Columbus when he discovered the new world by sailing, the movies always make me discover new things, and open a door between me and other people TV Series
WHITE COLLAR Creators: Jeff Eastin Stars: Matt Bomer, Tim DeKay, and Willie Garson. Released in 2009 4 seasons until now
White Collar is all about drama, action, and mystery. The main point is about anFBI agent who has an obsession about catching a particular criminal, who was playing cat and mouse for many years with Neal
supposed to give Neal a wide space to who was tricking him find his girlfriend for a long time. while he works as a After years, Peter partner with Burke. Burke (FBI agent) could finally catch him with From the first season great effort, but Neal we have noticed that, was very clever when he was extremely he made a deal with crafty when he tried agent Burke to assist escaping after he him to apprehend realized the painful other criminals, and reality of his disclose the planning girlfriend, while for the Gangsters as agent Burke was he considered the forcing him to specialized thief in complete his penalty Art and Security. and keeping him safe This deal was as long as he became
Caffrey, the person
a good friend for him. I grade it 10 stars while the real rate is 8
Why Am I here?? ELI MIRROR Spring 2013 Issue 1, p 5 Alyami, shehab
My niece Tolen. She is one year old
Why Am I here?? First I would like to introduce myself. My name is Shehab Alyami. I am from Najran, Saudi Arabia. I am 24 old years. And I live in Fairfax. And I have a big family - ten brother and six sisters.
here I will never lose. My dream is to complete my bachelor in U.S.A. I’ll study Petroleum Engineering. That is my dream and I’ll fight anyone in my way. I am now on my way to making my goal come true.
I am in the second semester studying English language at ELI George Mason University. I have to go to a lot of workshop to improve my language.
My friends are amazing to have fun or to help you to improve your language. My whole family is happy to be here. And I am happy to have new friends from different countries. And I hope to be happy all my life.
Soccer is my favorite sport to watch and play. I always play card games with my American friends. Reading is the best thing to do when I have free time. There are some goals that we need to fight to get. I never gave up my goal before to come here even now. And now I am
My friend’s from different countries
Valentine's Day in U.S.A. Valentine’s Day is on February 14 each year. And many people in the world celebrate this day. This day is about love between people. And there are many gifts people send. But the day is not just between boyfriend and girlfriend or husband and wife. It can be to acknowledge parents or children or our friends. The last celebration was with my friends. And we had English corner at George Mason. And there were a lot of international
student to celebration that day.. I saw in this day how the people behave to each other. And I saw guys give roses to girls.
I had a great time with my friends. There is one great message for this day ” live your life with love “
Things about Me The ELI Mirror
Pp JESSICA
Spring 2013, ISSUE 1
Perhaps the word "average" can best describe me. I am of average height, average weight and of average complexion. My name is Jiaye Guo; my nickname is Jessica, and I’m from China, Shanghai. I look like both my mother and my father, but I have inherited their best
parts. Beijing Royal is my high school. It is an international high school where I studied for 4 years. It is very big, and I very much liked studying there. Actually I learned a lot from my teachers in Beijing Royal School. I believe, in George Mason University (ELI), I can study more interesting things here. One particularly good thing about being a student is that I am learning something new each day and thus making progress each day. This is wonderful. I keep growing all the time. I have many hobbies: reading books listening to pop music, watching films, etc. I derive great pleasure out of my hobbies. Generally speaking, I am an honest and easy-going person. I hate hypocrisy and injustice. Fairness is very
important to me. I try to be fair in everything I do. I have great the appreciation for physical and spiritual independence. I am a bit disorganized and impatient sometimes. I don’t have many friends, but I do have a few. Of course we help each other if necessary. I always consider myself a lucky person. I am lucky in my family, I am lucky in my study, I am lucky in my friendship, I am lucky in many things. In one word, I am lucky in life. I am really grateful for all these things. I have both male and female friends. We do sports together, go shopping together; and we exchange our views and ideas and share our happiness and sadness.
Chinese New Year Chinese New Year is the biggest festival in China. When Chinese celebrate this festival, the family must be together. My family has the meal. in my hometown, Shanghai. It still has some old temples there. On New Year’s Eve, some old people will go there to pray for their families. At the same time, they will give to these temples some money, because they believe that behavior is good for their luck. It is not only for their health, but also for their children
and their grandchildren’s lives. On New Year’s Day, every one needs to wear new clothes, it means the new start. And the oldest people will give to their grandchildren some money. This behavior is called “Ya Shui”; it means this money will bring some luck for their grandchildren in the next year, and protect them from bad things. Also on that day, there are some traditional customs, like cleaning house, eating traditional candy, and praying to God, These behaviors means getting
rid of the bad things, and bringing the good things. At night, the family gets together and has dinne called“New Year’s celebratation meal”.
WITH MY FRIENDS IN THE APPLE FARM ELI MIRROR Spring 2013 Issue 1, p 7 Mohammed AL-HARBI
I think the Stribling Orchard is the best place for anybody who wants to see an apple farm near our university GMU. It’s a very nice place. I have never seen anything like this apple farm in my life before. There are more than 15 kinds of apples in this big farm. It’s a very huge place. We went with the ELI program and also some teachers from the ELI. The day we went there was the first day of the weekday. At 8 am Monday everybody had to go to the bus stop. Then the bus took us from GMU to Stribling Orchard. It took maybe around 1 hour to get there. When I arrived there I was surprised because it was the first time in my life I saw an orchard in front of me!
I was really excited. Then our teachers called us to listen to the instructions before we went inside the apple farm. Then they give us a paper. It told information about all the kinds of apple in this farm and where we could find them. After that everybody walked inside the farm in small groups. Every group had a teacher to tell them more information about the apples. I was with my friends Aziz, Youssef, Faisal, Abdullah, and Mobark. I really enjoyed it with them. I thought before I came to this apple farm that there were just two kinds of apples, green and red, but it wasn’t true. There are more than 15 kinds of apple.
hours. After that we knew every kind of apple in this huge farm. Then we went back to the front of the farm where there is a small store selling products of their farm. There were many very good things you can buy if you want like cherry juice and jars of honey. I took a small jar of honey and it was very delicious. Finally after 3 hours onn this farm we went back to GMU.
We walked around all those kinds of apples 3
THE Jenadria EVENT The Jenadria Event is the most popular event in Saudi Arabia. This event happens every year near the capital city Riyadh. This event is very famous in my country because it makes our communities come together with each other and also know every part of Saudi Arabia and their culture. The Jenadria place is very huge to collect all the different cultures inside this place. There are many parts inside Jenadria. Every part has many different interesting
things that you want to see or know, such as food, drink, and old products for their culture. Also every year the Jenadria has some new part from another culture from all over the world. Like last year the Japanese culture came to the Jenadria event. They told everyone about their culture and what is most popular in Japan, and also what they did before the development of the world. I went there one year ago.
I really enjoyed sseing all the culture from my country. This event told me something new I did not know before.
Here is the place on the nd of the old building. 2leftcolumn
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Spring 2013
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Issue 1, p 8
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Korean Traditional clothing The traditional clothes are so popular in Korea, because, they look very fancy and cute! The picture’s clothes is Saekdong Jeogori. When someone wants to get merried, they can wear these clothes. The clothing is very beautiful. There are so many colors on the clothing. And then many people couldn’t wear these clothes., because, they were very expensive at the time.
A long time ago, all people wore the normal Hanbok. Oneday, people can choose the clothes’ color. There were so so many colors of silk. If Someone choses the color, seamstress starts to make the Hanbok. Girls like fancy Hanbok. But, men like dark color. I don’t know why.
It’s important to keep tradition. So, we can wear those, and we are rd able to be interested in 3 column this clothing. This is the last column for your first article
Some challenges that I faced in the USA America specially Fairfax. It is quiet and a nice place to study in.
ELI mirror Spring 2013 Issue 1, p 9
THE USA Shuruq alharthi
Hi, I was born and raised in a small city called Taif. It is a beautiful city with cool weather on the top of a mountain. I lived in a big family, with six brothers and one sister. I left my country to complete my education in the USA with two brothers and my sister. I liked
When I came to the USA my life became so different. I had to learn how to take care of myself; I had to learn how to cook and how to clean, and how to make new
Everything was ready for me; my food and my clothes, my room always cleaned. I miss Saudi Arabia and I miss my old friends and the rest of my family. I can’t wait to finish my education and go back to Taif.
friends, how to go to college by myself. The transportation is very difficult and it takes long time to travel by using bus or metro, so I had to learn how to manage my time. In Saudi I didn’t have to do anything or worry about something. Taif
Taif Roses If you are Saudi definitely you know about Taif roses. My hometown is famous for anything related to roses. It has a very special nice smell. If you smell it you will notice that it is from Taif. Taif also makes many different kinds of products from roses. They make rose water; which is very good for the skin, and helps the skin to be healthy and bright. Some of our roses have been sent to Paris, to make some of her perfumes. Usually Taif roses are big and beautiful pink roses. People often grow these roses in the garden in
their houses. Other Saudi people come from other cities to see the beautiful sight of these roses growing. Taif also has a lot of different activities for people who come to see the roses, such as the famous rose festival.
They begin the festival by throwing roses at people form an airplane. Then they do some art with the roses to make it grow in some places with different colors to complete a beautiful picture. Everyone in Saudi knows about the beauty of Taif roses.
After One Year the Sun Surrounds ME
Issue 1, p 10
When I opened my eyes to find myself surrounded by the gold sun in the U.S, I couldn't believe how I reached here!
Majedh Alsewaiah
Oh! From Riyadh to America is a great leap in my life.
ELI Mirror
Spring 2013
Oh! From Riyadh to America is a great leap in My life.
A year ago I took the hardest decision of my life. I turned from journalism to academic work in King Saud University in the media department. The first year in academic work was very difficult because I
moved away from journalistic work which filled me with excitement and love in the Al Jazirah newspaper to do theoretical and routine work.
training on writing articles and news. In a like manner, I hope to train on correct rules in the skill of journalism writing.
In fact, when I turned to serious academic work,I set myself a goal and plan to study P.H.D in new media (Journalism), and to benefit from my experience in teaching after returning to Saudi Arabia. Now I hope to learn the new world media and
The Sun Surrounds ME
A Special Day in the History of Saudi Women
A gold Friday- the people will remember this special day on 11/1/2013. On This day Saudi women entered political life for the first time. The king Abdullah appointed 30 women to the Shura Council, representing 20% of the total members. After 20 years when women first joined as Shura members, they now have the right to vote just like men.
Most of the women who were chosen to work in Shura are academics or researchers: women with biographies full of creativity. For example Hayat Sindi who worked at NASA and was appointed a UNESCO Ambassador of Goodwill, and Khowla Alkeria who won Harvard scientific excellence in cancer research. Shura women deal with a lot of sensitive issues, that need to be placed under the microscope such as women working,
poverty and violence. I am happy to enter the Women's Shura as a first step for a political rd column 3 reform, but I think that it is not enough because I hope that we choose This is themembers last column for future byyour first article election. Also I do not want it limited to academics. We can choose any woman chosen by the people, and I suggest that members are chosen at the age of 2030 to represent the youth. Finally, I think Shura women's step will be followed by other steps to reform.
The Moments That Changed My Life ELI Mirror Spring 2013 Issue 1, p 11
Doaa Alrefaei
Since I came to the United States I have felt change in my life. It is the first time in my life traveling alone and carrying many responsibilities. In fact, I am not really alone at all because I came with my lovely son and my little brother. I left my family and my husband with much love and many promises to come back to the country with a degree which will
make them proud. Even though the first days in the U.S were so difficult for me, I felt happy doing everything by myself. For instance, I thought I could not rent an apartment or even register my son in school, but I did it. In addition, I learnt many things I could
The bride of the Red Sea Six years ago, I decided to leave my hometown Al Medina and move to Jeddah. I was so sad because I love my hometown, and I wish to live there all my life. In fact, Jeddah forces me to fall in love with her. Jeddah is the key city in western Saudi Arabia. It is the largest city after the capital city Riyadh.
It connects two significant holy cities for Muslims Mecca and Al Medina. Jeddah has a giant sea port which is very important for Saudis’ economy. Jeddah is a combination between past and present. On one hand, it is an old city named Al Ballad with oldfashioned buildings;
not learn beside my family. I learnt how I can be more independent and stronger. Living far away from my family makes me thankful and appreciates everything that I have in my life. Also, I realize the results have sweet tastes after much effort.
traditional restaurants; traditional malls and heritage districts. On the other hand, it is a modern city with modern malls; restaurants; towers and beautiful beaches. It deserves the lovely nickname the bride of the Red Sea.
my mirror . . . The ELI MIRROR Spring 2013 Issue 1 , p 12
When I look at myself in the mirror. I see a naughty girl, a tender mother and a diligent student. But, when I focus my eyes I see a wonderful mother and gentlemanly father; I mean my parents. They gave me my name. Abrar. I was born on 27th February 1988. I live with my small family; my smart daughter named Lara, and my lovely husband. Also, I have a big family in my country, Saudi Arabia. I have three princess sisters and two crafty brothers. However, I can't forget the maid who’s also part of my family.
I studied in Taibah University. My major is home economics and art education. There are many skills in this major. For example, motherhood and childhood, sewing and weaving, interior design, food and nutrition. My goal is to concentrate on interior design which I like a lot. Regardless of my major, there are a lot of hobbies I can do. From my hobbies I have learned to change the place of the furniture in the house. When I'm sad I do that; I don't know why. But I feel better. Also, l like to draw on T-shirts. The Firs tshirt I drew on was for my daughter Lara. And I like to prepare
some kind of dessert. For example, blueberry cheesecake, cinnamon rolls and other things. I love Martha Stewart and I hope to become like her because she is successful in her work. In the end, I hope to go back to my country and my family with something that makes mom and dad proud of me. Anyway, every night I hope all my wishes will be real some day. Finally, I have a wisdom in the life(the greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you can't do ).
ABRAR ALREHAILI
Almadenah's flower The flowers are a beautiful creation of the creator. They are the pride of spring. They are the prettiest and sweetest gift of nature which is put on display in the spring season. No one denies that all kinds of flowers are attractive. So everybody loves flowers.
Almadinah's flowers have an absolutely amazing pink color. They can be large or small size. This kind of flower must be displayed on all occasions in Almadinah. Also, it’s used to give a special flavor to red tea.
In my home country Almadinah Almonawrrah we have a lot of famous things. For example, Madeeni roses, all kinds of mints and all kinds of dates specially pressed dates.
In weddings, strings are made of these roses. Usually we have a small celebration which comes before the wedding. The brides put some flowers in their hair and also young bridesmaids. Also we can make kinds of
candy, sweets and jam from Almadinah's flower. We also get water form this flowers and use it for skin care in beauty centers. How beautiful are Almadinah traditions and great memories. Where ever we go, we see flowers. We thank the almighty "Allah" for this gift.
Who’s Shatha ? ELI MIRROR Spring 2013 Issue 1 p 13
I always said if my parents hadn’t got divorced, I’d have lived a better life, and I’d have had a different personality: talkative, social and confident, but when I think about it once or twice, I believe that that decision was the best thing that could have ever happened in my past because I wouldn’t have all those friends who care about me In my life, or maybe my sister and I wouldn’t be so close, or maybe I wouldn’t be that shy girl who makes her husband crazy about her every time her cheeks blush.
I achieved my dream of living in the United States, and I know from the bottom of my heart that this big opportunity will make me more confident. I won’t say that this is the present that I always dreamed about, I should have graduated from the university by this time; I have never wished to be this far away from my country, family, and friends. But I found out that having your love beside you, and making new friends could make living away from home a new home.
What do I want to be in the future? This is a question I haven’t been able to answer since I was eleven. Last December I decided to be psychologist, to help and be around those children whose parents got divorced, or of course anyone who has a problem in his or her life. I also want to be the thing that made me hold my own doll in my arms "a mother", and of course to be a good daughter for the man who means the world to me, and a good wife for the man who loves me the most
Sahlab. Shatha Balto
We all need comfort in this cold weather. Some may find it when they cuddle with their lover, others may find it by being close to the heater, but I find it in my favorite Hot drink, which in Saudi Arabia we call “ sahlab “ . I’ll teach you how to make it, and you may find your comfort in it, too. First, put three cups of milk and four teaspoons
of sugar in a pot on medium high heat, and stir until the sugar melts and the milk starts to boil. In a bowl put another cup of milk and add two tablespoons of corn flour and mix it together. Add the mixture to the pot and whisk fast to avoid t lumps. When it starts to thicken lower the heat, and add a little bit of
cinnamon. Then put it in your favorite cup and enjoy drinking it. I know there is nothing that makes us worm like being around the one we love, but believe me this drink will make you warmer and warmer.
My new life ELI Mirror Spring 2013
I’m Xiao Yang, a student from China. I have been in The United States 5 months. I graduated from high school, and want to get my bachelor's degree here. .
many challenges. For instance, I cannot speak English very well; The Chinese culture is very different from the US culture, so I should change some habits. During this period, I I am enjoying met lots of difficulty. Fortunately, the ELI my new life. When I teachers are very kind came to the campus and nice. They helped the first day, I was excited and surprised; me, and I met many Chinese friends, we the campus was can solve the problem totally different with my imagination. I like together. Right then, I realized that the the environment and problem can help me atmosphere. I was grow up and cultivate looking forward to my independence. campus life. Nevertheless, it has
Issue 1, p 14
Xiao Yang
Now, I have many different countries friends, I heard various stories. Also I learned each country’s culture. I feel happiness!
My Favorite Food My favorite food is Hot Pot. It is Chinese traditional food, called Huo guo. .
Generally speaking, we use a big pot, put the water in it. Also you can choose the soup, such as spicy soup, bone soup and so on. And you can select many flavors of sauce (chili sauce, seafood sauce, szechuan sauce). After that, you turn on the fire; wait for the
soup to boil. Put in the meat (like beef, lamb, and pork), vegetables (all the vegetables you like toeat), eggs, noodles.
The reason that I like hot pot is that it tastes so delicious. The hot pot also is easy for people to prepare at home.
About a Student The ELI Mirror Spring 2013 Issue 1, p 15 Maha Alghuraibi About a student. Pottery Painting.
On the seventh of August, my Mom and Dad’s first daughter was born. She grew up with her younger brother and sister. After ten years, she had a new brother. When she was in school, she liked to talk on stage. Her talent was declamation. When she was in tenth grade, she tried to draw pictures. However, her pictures were not perfect enough. In high school, she started writing a diary. She loved to write about everything which happened to her. Nowadays, her favorite hobby is writing. Because writing skills cannot improve without reading, she always reads about different topics. For instance, she reads about
self developing, biographies, technology, novels, and poems. She has a big dream, and she will try to achieve it by writing. Even though her photographs are not professional, photography is one of her favorite hobbies. She came to the United States to study for a bachelor’s degree. This girl is called Maha Alghuraibi! For the time being, I am studying English language in George Mason University. After I finish my English program, I am going to apply to the School of Management. In free time, I would like to do many different activities. Some of them are shopping, cooking and blogging.
Pottery Painting I believe that the greatest thing is when we make stuff by hand. One interesting craft is pottery painting. It is a perfect way to show your painting talent. In fact, you do not need painting skill to do that because it is easy. There are only three steps to paint the pottery. First, pick a pottery piece. Second, paint it with acrylic glaze. Third, glaze and fire it. Because painting improves our taste, I think that painting pottery can help us to be creative and proud of ourselves. Different ages of people can paint their own pottery. Also, they can use it as a gift.
There are many stores in the United States to paint pottery such as Color Me Mine and Clay Café Studio. One day, I went to one of these stores and painted my own cup. It was the first time for me. I enjoyed it there with my family. Everyone chose a specific pottery and some colors for painting. Then, we started by using sponges and paintbrushes. Finally, we gave our pots to the employee to fire them. Pottery painting is a fun project. Just try it and you will like it.
Maha
Lastly, the United States has strong education. Therefore, I came here to get my Bachelor's degree. I am looking to have a wonderful education with great teachers and friends.
Who am I ? The ELI Mirror Spring 2013 Issue 1, p 16 Afraa
If you ask me who I am or what I know about Jeddah you will be surprised because I will tell you extensive information. I was born in Saudi Arabia in Jeddah city. Jeddah city is a huge, beautiful city. It is a tourist city especially in the summer season. In 2010, I graduated from King Abdulaziz University. When I decided to complete my master degree in United States, I applied to scholarship program.
I have been studying English since March 2012. This semester I am very excited to be one of Goerge Mason's ELI students because it is a magnificent school that has many student from different cultures.
Therefore, I can meet new friends from different countries despite having extensive friends from my countries in this school.
Jeddah Fountain
Also, I have two international friends. If you want to join with us you are welcome to come. My hobbies are swimming, shopping, writing news, too. Thanks
Why does Music affect us ? Everyone has a sort of music that can be unforgettable music for him or her because it put s a vivid picture in their mind which is associated with a certain story. Titanic is a great example of this. When we hear titanic's rhythm, it reminds us of the whole movie or romantic love story. Have you ever asked yourself why it happens? or Why do some kinds of
music put a vibrant picture in our mind? Some experts have researched this case. As a result, they estimate that situation might occur for several reasons. One reason for this is that people may feel love or they may be thinking about a particular person. Another reason, is that when people are in a particular situation they remember a specific event
that happened for them at a period of time in their live they could not forget it easily. For these reasons, it is clear why some kinds of music affect us in many ways.
Traveling ELI Mirror Spring 2013 Issue 1, p 17 Noha Al. najjar
“Own only what you can always carry with you : know languages, know countries , know people. Let your memory be your travel bag .”Alexander Solzhenitsyn, (1970)
All of us know that education in the US. is the best . SO, I came here to complete my study in PHD. My name is Noha. I am from Saudi Arabia.
that show the British culture. Also touring around London will never get boring because it has a lot of beautiful nature views.
I would like to tell you about my experience in traveling. I will also talk about the benefits of traveling.
My advice is that you must know how to pick the cities that you can travel to and enjoy with your family also to make sure you are in a safe place.
I visited a lot of cities around the world. Also I saw a lot of things that are very interesting.
The first thing you notice when you walk in the streets of London is the noble history and Big Ben
On the other hand I don’t forget that charming moment in Paris, or as they call it, the city of lovers. It looked amazing at night. The Eiffel tower was at the center and shining so that everyone in Paris can look at it from any side.
The first time I visited London was in 2007. It had exciting museums
Travel adds to your knowledge, removes stress and brings friends.
From the most beautiful countries that I have visited before are London and Paris
The famous Russian Nobel prize winning novelist, Alexander Solzhenitsyn, said .“Own only what you can always carry with you : know languages, know countries , know people. Let your memory be your travel bag “ The nicest times to travel are often in the summer. So, I hope for all of you to travel and enjoy your vacation.
Healthy habits in modern life There are a lot of students that practice some unhealthy habits in their lives and that negatively affects them. So they need to change these habits in order to lead healthy lives. Sleep early Some students consider sleep something that doesn’t have a high priority in their lives, but enough sleep helps a person feel fresh and focused the next day instead of feeling nervous and disoriented.
Eating healthy Students assume since they don’t have enough time to focus on eating healthy, they go the faster way and eat junk food. Eating healthily helps students maintain healthy bodies and healthy brains. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables helps students concentrate and focus better on their studies. Exercising Dedicating time exercise every week
for
is important for every student. Exercise helps in decreasing the risk of high blood pressure and sugar levels. It also decreases the risks of heart disease and ensures blood circulation. There are a lot of exercises that relaxe the body and relieve stresses and tensions, which are necessary for students. These exercises include yoga and aquatic exercises. And these are ways to maintain healthy habits in modern life..
How can Students avoid depression? ELI Mirror Spring 2013 Issue 1, p 18
Doaa Alrefaei
Depression and giving up are two hazardous feelings that students can feel. Hence, that will affect their achievements, and it might demolish their plans and dreams. They have to change their mood and integrate themselves with the new cultural and environment. According to a USA College Health Association study , 27% of students get depressed in their first year. So, how can students avoid depression? US News published some steps that can help students avoid depression .
1- Sport :
benefits us and keep us Physical exercise makes in touch with our families. So use your people relax and phone, computer, changes their mood. Facebook, and twitter to That means sport feel you are with your contributes to fight family and your friends. depression and stress 4- Sleep early: 2- Do not Isolate Most students spend yourself: their night studying but Life is easier than we that affects their health. think. It is a key thing Researchers have shown to study and achieve a that sleep can help high GPA. But do not prevent depression and be too tough on help the brain work yourself. Have fun better in the next day . and create new 5- Use the university’s relationships with new counseling service : friends. If you feel depression 3- Use technology: and you think it is not Technology has become normal, ask about the GMU Counseling and the main thing in our Psychological Services. lives. As international They are always around students we know how to help. much technology
MY LIFE IN SIMPLE WORDS The ELI Morror Spring 2013, Issue 1, p 19 FAISAL ALHARKAN
My name is Faisal. I was born and grew up in the capital city of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Al-Riyadh. I lived with a big family. I have 2 brothers and 3 sisters also. I am number 2, so I am in the middle of my brothers and sisters. My father works in Saudi Government and my mother works too. I finished my high school in 2010, and now I am studying English at George Mason University in Virginia. I wish to get a recommendation from this semester or summer semester to join Access program next fall.
After that I wish to major in systems engineering in George Mason even though I am not very good in math, but it will be a strong challenge for me to make my dream come true. I am a quiet person in general, but I was not when I was a kid. I like to play soccer and play cards best when I have free time. When I was at
home I liked to visit my grandparents every week, because I like to speak with old people in general, especially when they are talking about their life in the past and how it was difficult and how they helped each other. In conclusion I hope I explained my life in the best way, and I wish to make my dream came true in the future.
THE WINNER OF INTRAMURAL SOCCER CHAMPION SHIP Last semester was good for me. We won the intramural champion for soccer. It was hard at first but at the end I think it was worth it. We played more than 10 games against a lot of players from all over the world. In some games we laughed and in some games we fought. I met a lot of friends there and I enjoyed meeting them. On the last day of this Championship we played three games: one at 3:00 one at 6:00 one at 9:00. I know it sounds crazy but we played and we won. I hope to play again this semester but I don't know if Mason will have this tournament again, but really I enjoyed it.
My favorite player ELI Mirror Spring 2013 Issue 1, p 20 Youssef Alnajrani
I’m Youssef I love soccer more than any sport. The soccer is interesting. Sometimes I do something crazy when I watch a Barcelona match. The Barcelona team makes me crazy and happy . Sometimes I wonder why I’m not like Messi . I know that’s a strange thought. Sometimes my friends think I’m really crazy, so they start to laugh when the match starts because I start to do stuff. Also my friends ask me why I always speak about Messi.
My favorite player Messi
You know no matter about soccer I'm still a quiet person, funny, friendly and a little bit crazy , but my hobbies are different from soccer or sport . My hobbies are singing and drawing. I am a family person , carefully and clever.
Second Story Headline I think Messi is the best soccer player in the world. Messi started playing in a team in Argentina when he was 11 years old, then he went to Barcelona, Spain because he was suffering from a disease, and he couldn't find treatment at home because Argentina was loo expensive for his family. Messi tried to get into the Barcelona team and then they saw his talent and helped him to get treatment.
This is the last column for your first article
Now Messi has become the best player in the world for four times from 2009-2012. Why? Because He got four golden balls and he made 91 goals in one season. A lot of teams cannot do that, but he did it . Also every one who likes soccer knows about Messi and what he can do with a soccer ball. Until now Messi has broke all soccer records and he got all the awards around the world except the World Cup. He just needs that. If
he gets the World cup he will be the impossible boy.