Launch of a New Minor at Cal State Fullerton: Students Drive Academic Change
This fall, California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) has unveiled an innovative minor that was spearheaded by students dedicated to enriching the university’s course offerings. The 15-unit program focuses on the Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA) region, which encompasses nations such as Morocco, Afghanistan, Turkey, and Yemen. This initiative aims to deepen understanding of the rich tapestry of cultures, economies, languages, religions, and histories that characterize this often-misunderstood area known colloquially in Western contexts as the Middle East.
A Personal Journey Towards Representation
Mary Chammas emerged as a key proponent for this minor after experiencing feelings of isolation as a freshman. Coming from a Lebanese background and graduating in 2023 before embarking on her law school journey, Chammas initially considered transferring to another university due to what she perceived as a lack of representation at CSUF. “I was searching for an environment where individuals with Middle Eastern heritage were recognized,” Chammas reflected. “Unfortunately, it seemed our presence was non-existent at Cal State Fullerton.”
While contemplating her transfer application to USC—a move she thought would offer her community—she took matters into her own hands by establishing the Lebanese Student Association on campus. The organization garnered unexpected popularity among other students. “It surprised me how many individuals connected with our group regardless of their backgrounds,” she said.
Ultimately inspired by this burgeoning community spirit among peers who created something meaningful together led them to establish the SWANA student organization.
Recognizing Inequities in Terminology
Socio-Cultural Aspects of SWANA
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Exploring New Horizons: Cal State Fullerton Launches Exciting Minor Connecting Southwest Asia and North Africa
Overview of the New Minor
California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) has recently announced the launch of an innovative minor that connects the vibrant regions of Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA). This academic program is designed for students interested in exploring the rich histories, cultures, and contemporary issues of these two interconnected regions. The minor is an excellent opportunity for those looking to enhance their understanding of global perspectives, particularly as they relate to issues such as migration, cultural exchange, and international relations.
Objectives of the Minor
The objectives of the Southwest Asia and North Africa minor include:
- To provide students with a robust understanding of the languages, cultures, and histories of the SWANA regions.
- To analyze contemporary geopolitical challenges and historical contexts affecting the areas.
- To promote intercultural dialogue and understanding among diverse student populations.
- To prepare students for careers in international relations, cultural studies, and other fields relevant to the SWANA region.
Curriculum Structure
The academic program is structured to provide a well-rounded education. Students will engage with a variety of disciplines, including history, political science, sociology, and religious studies. Below is a breakdown of the curriculum:
| Course Title | Description | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to SWANA Studies | An overview of the cultures, languages, and historical developments in Southwest Asia and North Africa. | 3 |
| Political Dynamics in the Middle East | A critical examination Talia Boukhalil serves as president of SWANA and is pursuing business administration studies. She elaborated on the inadequacies inherent in conventional terminologies surrounding these regions: “The label ‘Middle East’ does not encompass every nation within these cultural territories.” Fellow advocate Chammas emphasized how parts like Armenia or Afghanistan often face misclassification simply due to census limitations where they are labeled ‘white’ or ‘other.’ The reception towards their initiatives blossomed so significantly that Chammas reconsidered leaving CSUF altogether; instead choosing activism over departure: “I halted my transfer applications entirely—my focus shifted toward cultivating community right here at Cal State Fullerton.” Together with fellow students passionate about pushing forward advocacy efforts—with notable success in including SWANA under optional ethnicity categories within California State University admissions—they began evolving their vision further. Establishing Essential Support SystemsRecognizing another pressing need among their demographic led them towards developing resource centers aimed explicitly for academic support while also fostering peer relationships within campus networks—though faced initial challenges regarding linking services back into educational programs offered.” Boukhalil explained: “We quickly learned that any proposed resource center required an authentic connection to existing curriculum frameworks.” “There weren’t necessarily new classes needed; plenty existed—it just required coordination,” shared Boukhalil. |