On September 22, AGSIW hosted an open house for students from the Gulf studying in the United States and U.S. students in the field of Gulf and Middle East studies, bringing all together for the program “Sharing Their Journey.” During the event, AGSIW sat down with featured guests Hala Aldosari, a visiting scholar at AGSIW, Mohammed Al Hajji, a Saudi student and PhD candidate at Temple University, and Scott Weiner, who recently received his PhD from the George Washington University. The three scholars all have a strong presence on social media and in the blogosphere, and they shared their unique experiences with AGSIW.
Hala and Mohammed discussed their motivations for studying in the United States while Scott talked about why he chose to conduct research in the Gulf. In addition to sharing their experiences studying abroad, they discussed the impact that social media and blogging has had on their careers and personal lives.
While Iraqi leaders consistently emphasize the importance of Western investment in their energy sector, their actions instead are increasing Iraq’s dependence on Chinese markets and oil firms.
The short-term effects of the U.S. presidential election for policy toward the Gulf region are likely to be minimal, though the most consequential effect may be indirect and long term.
Regardless of who prevails in November's presidential election, the next U.S. administration may contend with either a nuclear-armed or fragmented Iran.
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Through its careful examination of the forces shaping the evolution of Gulf societies and the new generation of emerging leaders, AGSIW facilitates a richer understanding of the role the countries in this key geostrategic region can be expected to play in the 21st century.