SQCC Hosts Students from William & Mary College

On 18 January SQCC hosted students from Williams & Mary College who are visiting Washington, DC on a two-week study trip led by Dr. Anne Rasmussen, Professor of Music/Ethnomusicology, Bickers Professor of Middle Eastern Studies; and Director, AMES: Program in Asian & Middle Eastern Studies.

The visit began with a tour of SQCC’s permanent exhibition, where students were introduced to Oman, its traditions, culture and history. SQCC Executive Director Kathleen Ridolfo gave a talk on Exploring Oman with SQCC, which included information about Oman’s culture, traditions, history, geography and people, as well as a brief overview of SQCC programs. The students were receptive and eager to learn about Oman, a country none of them had ever visited, and were particularly excited to learn about SQCC’s programs and opportunities at the center, as well as in Oman.

Students also watched a short PowerPoint presentation entitled Omani Frankincense Burner: A Brief History, as well as a brief video prepared by SQCC on how to paint majmars (frankincense burners). Students learned about frankincense and its role in Omani history and culture. Finally, Students enjoyed painting replicas of majmars in SQCC’s activity room. At the end, students took home their painted majmars with their names written in Arabic on them as souvenirs from Oman and SQCC.

Students created a website about their study visit to DC, including their visit to SQCC.