When seeking an internship or volunteer position at the Palestinian Center, individuals often inquire about the daily activities of volunteers to gain a better understanding of the program. While English Teachers, Special Program Volunteers, and Intensive Arabic students may have different schedules, they all adhere to similar guidelines and often collaborate with each other. Regardless of the specific program, participants can anticipate engaging days at the Center with ample free time for leisure and community involvement.
Living Arrangements
Volunteers and interns have two accommodation options. Female participants are typically placed with a host family, who are usually close friends of the staff and part of the EC community. These homestays are conveniently located near the Center, either within walking distance or a short taxi ride away. Male volunteers may also request to stay with a host family, but are usually accommodated in the apartment-style housing provided by the Palestinian Center due to cultural considerations.
Staying at these locations allows volunteers to form close relationships with their neighbors, who embrace them as part of their families, ensuring their well-being and sense of belonging. Both accommodation options offer unique benefits, immersing volunteers in the Hebron community and providing proximity to the Center.
A Day at the Palestinian Center
Upon arrival at the Center, volunteers gather for breakfast from 9:30 to 10:00am before commencing their program activities. Intensive Arabic students attend classes, English teachers prepare lessons or teach, and special program interns engage in their assigned tasks. The diverse activities cater to different learning objectives and interests, fostering a collaborative environment among participants.
Intensive Arabic Program
The Intensive Arabic program focuses on mastering colloquial Arabic spoken in Palestine and the Levant region. Students attend four-hour classes five days a week, starting in the morning and extending into the early afternoon. The curriculum includes practical exercises, homework assignments, and opportunities to interact with the local community to enhance language proficiency.
Through a variety of lessons and activities, students develop their speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills. Applying their knowledge outside the classroom reinforces their learning experience and cultural immersion in Hebron.
Teach English Speak Arabic Program
Participants in this program are responsible for teaching English classes and receiving Arabic lessons from EC staff. The primary focus is on instructing students in English, either as the main teacher or as a Teaching Assistant. Classes are held at the Center and in nearby villages, providing volunteers with diverse teaching opportunities and cultural exchanges.
Leisure Activities
After EC activities conclude in the late afternoon, volunteers have free time to engage in leisure activities. The manageable workload allows for cultural exploration, socializing with host families and neighbors, and participating in organized tours or personal outings.
Volunteers often enjoy playing soccer with local children, visiting landmarks, trying local cuisine, or simply relaxing at cafes. Weekends offer opportunities to travel within the West Bank or explore Hebron, fostering connections with diverse communities and enriching the Palestinian experience.