Author: caoun1@gsu.edu

Perseverance and persistence in spite of all obstacles and impossibilities distinguishes the strong minded from the weak. I entered Georgia State University in August of 2014 with high aspirations, and the one thing that I never forget is to endure every task taken until the very end. So far as a freshman Psychology major with a Pre-Medical concentration and a Coca-Cola First Generation Scholar, I began as one of the first Student University Assistants at Georgia State's Collaborative University Research and Visualization Environment and began the Colleges Against Cancer of Georgia State University, reinstating the Relay For Life organization that was previously disbanded with a new name and structure but with the same vigor, dedication, and spirit of the American Cancer Society and the Colleges Against Cancer National organization traditions and guidelines. I plan on continuing to achieve greatness in the hopes of meeting so many unique and different people, places, and perspectives.

The Goblet Drum

caoun1@gsu.edu on

One of the most well-known instruments in Middle Eastern cultures is the goblet drum. There are different names for the drum depending on the part of the Middle East you are from. In Lebanon, it is referred to as a derbake, but other nations have referred to the same drum as darbuka, doumbek, or tablah. For the past 15 years, I have taught myself how to play this drum, and it probably is one of the coolest instruments that I know how to play. It is so fascinating to be able to perform with other Arab musicians and singers with this drum. There is not a single song that is performed without this instrument included in the ensemble. The derbake peaked my interest when I was about 7 years old and noticed this instrument at my uncle’s house. I was never forced to play the instrument, and I never stopped improving my techniques. Not many people my age can say that they can play an Arabic instrument like this, and I am so proud to be able to say as such.