Have you ever found yourself at the crossroads of curiosity and academia, yearning for a space that marries both? A space where the hues of the Middle East’s complex history intermingle with the sharp, analytical tools of contemporary cultural studies? Welcome to our seminar’s digital alcove, where we set out for a trip that transcends the traditional boundaries of the classroom, spilling over into the bustling cafés of intellectual discourse.

organizational musings
Our seminar, “From Campus to Cafés: Writing the Middle East for Your Daily Read,” is not just another course. It’s a space of exploration, a canvas upon which we paint our understanding of the Middle East. Our Mondays, from 2:15 PM to 3:45 PM, are reserved for this intellectual dance. But what, you might ask, are the steps to this dance?
Our course is structured to break down the barriers of academia, allowing us to write for a broader audience. We aim to translate our academic insights into narratives that resonate, using ethical research practices and persuasive writing techniques. And as we journey together, we’ll engage in peer reviews and collaborative learning, refining our perspectives and honing our craft.
But what is a journey without milestones? Our course is punctuated with assignments that challenge and inspire. From identifying potential topics for our final papers to framing motivating problems, our tasks are designed to keep us on our toes. And for those who thrive on deadlines, fret not! Our tasks come with their own set of deadlines, ensuring we stay on track.
a note on tolerance
In this space, we champion open-mindedness and embrace the ambiguities that come with diverse perspectives. However, let me be clear: we have zero tolerance for any form of discrimination. Respect and inclusivity are the pillars upon which our learning community stands.
mapping our knowledge
In our first session (see the presentation here), we embarked on a task of personal and peer knowledge mapping. Each student delved deep, introspecting on their expertise, writing experiences, and aspirations. We then came together, forming a network of knowledge and interests. From the anthropology of MENA to the nuances of computational linguistics, our map was a testament to the diverse expertise and interests that each one of us brings to the table.

the blog: our digital alcove
Our seminar’s blog, Keine Disziplin – No Discipline, is not just a platform. It’s a living, breathing entity that captures our reflections, our learnings, and our aspirations. It’s where we engage in discussions, share our insights, and strive for continuous learning.
As we navigate the vast expanse of the Middle East’s history and culture, I invite you to join us. Engage with us, challenge us. After all, in the words of a modern Westerosi philosopher, “The things we do for knowledge.”
P.S. Remember, as we traverse this academic landscape, our guiding principle remains: always question, always explore, and always stay curious.