Despite having the freedom to wear whatever they want, Saudi female students in the West proudly reflect their religion and culture when abroad. They not only conquer their homesickness but also manage to present a good image of the Hijab to the West. The Hijab and the color of the Abaya has not stopped them from going abroad on scholarships. On the contrary, they have earned good reputations and proved their knowledge of religious mores and responsibility. The Saudi students have won a lot of respect for preserving their identity and showing pride in their religion and excelling in their studies. One well known Muslim Scholar Hussain Al-Fahd spoke of his admiration for Saudi women who were not affected by life in the West despite fears they would be, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. But adapting to life in the West takes discipline according to one Saudi student Maha Aseeri who is on scholarship in Edinburgh. She said: “My Hijab was a matter of life or death for me. I promised myself I wouldn't be affected by the Western culture. We were raised believing in Islamic values and that Allah the Almighty is everywhere and watches what you do.” Noura Al-Yousefi who is on scholarship in New Zealand said she merged well with the society and practiced Dawah. She described New Zealanders as people who are in search of a religion to embrace. She said Saudi female students reflect an image which showed their pride in their religious identity. “I'm proud of my Hijab, which helped me practice Dawah. Many people come and ask me about Hijab and Islam,” she said. Noura says that Saudi female students are doing a great job as ambassadors for their country and for their faith. “They are helping their Muslim sisters promulgate Islam and dispel stereotypes and misconceptions about Islam created by the September 11 events.”
