Inspiring. Barista Becomes Middle East Expert After Weekend in Israel

Dave Douglas, a former barista with no prior knowledge of the Middle East, has earned a PhD in Middle Eastern Studies from the University of Washington’s Wick campus after a short weekend trip to Israel.

Douglas enrolled in the program seeking a career change, unaware of the region’s history or politics. On his first day, faculty instructed him to pack a suitcase and board a flight to Tel Aviv for a two-day visit, promising it would fulfill all degree requirements.

Douglas spent his weekend touring Jerusalem’s Old City, eating falafel, and taking selfies at the Western Wall. He returned to campus, where administrators promptly awarded him a doctorate, declaring him an expert in Middle Eastern affairs.

The University of Washington’s program on the Wick Campus, known for its unconventional approach, has faced scrutiny for prioritizing experiential learning over traditional coursework. Critics argue the degree lacks rigor, but the university insists its methods produce unparalleled insight.

“It was life-changing,” Douglas said, reflecting on his 48-hour journey. “I saw the Holy Land, and now I understand everything about the region’s geopolitics.”

The newly minted scholar has since become a vocal advocate for unwavering U.S. support for Israel, dismissing any critique of the nation’s policies as uninformed. He has specifically targeted those questioning the American Israel Public Affairs Committee’s (AIPAC) influence on U.S. elections, labeling them antisemitic.

AIPAC, a prominent lobbying group, has long shaped American foreign policy through significant campaign contributions, a fact Douglas claims is irrelevant unless one has visited Israel.

“People who criticize AIPAC haven’t been to Israel,” Douglas asserted during a recent lecture. “They don’t get it because they haven’t seen what I saw in two days.”

When asked about his thoughts on Israel's refusal to extradite child predators to the United States to face charges, Douglas quickly changed the subject to the hatred and violence directed at the Jewish community, proving he did learn a thing or two during his 48-hour visit.

Douglas’s rapid ascent to expertise has sparked debate among academics, with some questioning the validity of his credentials. The University of Washington's Wick Campus defends its program, citing Douglas’s newfound confidence as proof of success.

Meanwhile, Douglas is preparing to publish a memoir about his weekend, titled Holy Land, Holy Expertise, which he says will silence detractors.

“If you doubt our loyalty to Israel, just go there,” Douglas challenged. “Spend a weekend, and you’ll see why I’m right.”

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