Conversation 5

Bayan and I met at the BLUU today. We decided to meet after lunch, and she had an iced green tea waiting for me, because she knows I like it! Such a sweet gesture. Like usual, we talked about how we were doing and how we had been since we last spoke. She said she had been studying a lot, which I was happy to hear. I told her about the upcoming philanthropy event my sorority has. She asked me if I could explain more about the Greek system, because she really didn’t know anything about it. She had heard a few of the stereotypes, but had no idea about the positive parts of sororities and fraternities like friendship, community service, and professional connections. She was so surprised to hear about all of the great things people get out of being in a Greek organization. It was really cool to be able to explain something about my life to her. She even thanked me for telling her about it! Bayan also told me that there really isn’t anything like that back home.

We talked a little bit more about her learning to drive. She got her permit almost a year ago, but hasn’t been able to get her husband to sit and teach her so she can get her license. I’ve said it before, but I just can’t imagine not being able to get myself places. I asked her how that works in Saudi Arabia. She told me that the women in most families have drivers, which I had no idea about. She also said the drivers are typically from other countries, sort of like a lot of taxi drivers here. She doesn’t like the rule that women are unable to drive, because it is a hassle, both physically and financially. You have to pay just to get to the grocery store, and often you have to explain how to get where you want to go, rather than just being able to hop in the car and get there. The driver also then has to wait for you to take you home. Also, if a family with multiple women in the house only has one driver, someone has to wait. It’s just very interesting to imagine such a different way of life.

I have very much enjoyed meeting with Bayan this semester, and I will be sad to see it end soon! Hopefully we will remain in contact even after this class is over! She is such a kind person and I’m glad to have gotten to know her.