Clemencia – Our Intern’s Diary

“Overall, my experience with the Offscreen students has been amazing. I feel that these kids have very unique and special talents that can be beneficial to greater society.

“Through my time with these kids, I learned that the stereotypes of the Middle East propagated in America are incorrect. The idea is that most Middle Easterners are hostile or are often associated with terrorist organizations. These ideas are based on fear and ignorance. The truth is, is that these people are human beings. They think the same and are educated in much the same manner. After speaking with one of the students, I learned that they have similar concepts of Westerners. They are afraid of us as well.

“Offscreen is very beneficial in this manner. It breaks the divides, lets people move past their common fear, and helps both sides promote peace and understanding. In the days travelling with the group, I also learned a few things about London and got a unique look at the city I had called home for two months. Most of our time was spent in the East side. This area was much more diverse than Central London where I live. I didn’t realize how many Halal (kosher for Muslims) restaurants and stores there were in London.

“For me, the most interesting thing I participated in was the news debates at Tower Hamlets between the kids. I got to hear their opinions on current events, events within their community, and comparisons between Tower Hamlet students and the international students of Offscreen. I don’t really feel that American children—especially in the age group of the Offscreen kids—know about the outside world or even about issues in their own community.”