"I'm interested in studying Arabic because I want to become closer with my culture and religion. I want to reconnect with the language to establish my sense of identity."
- Nabil 17, New York

"Right now, I would love to learn a new language! Spanish was my first language, then English. I've never had a chance to learn Arabic, but since I speak two languages, why not a third?"
- Rosanna 17, Maryland

"A family friend used to teach me Arabic when I was really little. I told my mother that I wanted to learn again but we never found the time or a good tutor."
- Iyanna 17, D.C.

"My family is Muslim. My mother and little sister are learning Arabic, so I also want to be able to speak it with my family fluently."
- Jermaine 14, D.C.

"I'm learning American Sign Language as well! Through learning ASL, I've come to see how human connections through different forms of language are very important."
- Talia 15, D.C.

"I love learning about different cultures and languages! The TOCA Online program made me see things differently and care about different people."
- Eric 17, North Carolina

"I taught myself two of the Japanese alphabets. I know that Arabic isn't an easy language to learn, but it would be amazing to learn from a teacher who can guide me in the process."
- Diego 18, Wisconsin

"Studying a new language opens our minds to new opportunities and possibilities. Language is how people express themselves and communicate their experiences. Immersing yourself in other languages is a great way to engage in another culture."
- Daniela 16, North Carolina

"Arabic is one of the top five languages I want to be fluent in. Some of my best friends are Arab, so I would love to speak with them one day in their language.”
- Chidera 17, Virginia

“As a result of misrepresentation of people from Arabic speaking countries what we, as students, learn about this part of the world is scarce. Familiarizing myself with the language will be instrumental in the deconstruction of this barrier.”
- Ghita 16, North Carolina

“I want to keep adding languages to my vocabulary! Studying and learning languages and cultures opens up doors for connections with people across the world”
- Xavier 17, D.C.

“Arabic is such a beautiful language! I was in Arabic club in middle school and have always wanted to continue studying it. In college, I want to study international relations and communications.”
- Queen 17, D.C.