During the month of July, 20 Fulbright scholars from Pakistan are studying at the University of Vermont before returning to complete degrees in electrical engineering, journalism and bioinformatics. A bright, funny, sophisticated bunch, they were selected from a pool of more than 1000 applicants for this Institute for Student Leaders. It is one of seven such programs funded by the U.S. State Department and hosted by American universities.... Read more

The Bosnian film Ovo Malo Duse (A Little Soul) opens with a grumpy grandfather explaining that women aren't to be trusted. As he and his companions take strong swigs of sljivovica, he tells the story of Adam and Eve. When he gets to the punchline - where Eve ruins everything, in his opinion - a drinking buddy pours another glass and gives his two cents: "Bitch."

A simple case of Mediterranean machismo? Maybe not, when you consider the universality of the Bible - and of violence against women.... Read more

Moses Bol Tong has a favorite question on the U.S. Naturalization Exam. When asked about Patrick Henry, he pumps the air with his fist and declaims with a flourish, "Give me liberty or give me death!"

Like many of the so-called "Lost Boys of Sudan," Tong, now 26, had an arduous and heartbreaking journey to the United States. And before he could become a citizen, as he did a few weeks ago, he had to overcome yet another hurdle: the test.... Read more

BURLINGTON - Last Sunday afternoon, a perfect 80-degree day brought crowds to the Church Street Marketplace in search, perhaps, of sun, sustenance and sales. Some of those shoppers and cafe people-watchers were treated to an unexpected, confrontational bit of street theater. Nine men wearing black hoods and orange jumpsuits, meant to represent Guantanamo Bay prison detainees, made their way down Church Street, hands held - though not cuffed - behind them. Two in front carried an upside-down American flag; two at the rear carried a large white sign with the message: "Arrest the U.S.... Read more

It's been really hard for Americans to understand soccer. There isn't much trash talk, and there's no half-time show or commercial breaks. There is no punching or body slamming. There isn't a lot of gear or gadgets. No vehicles are involved. Sometimes, no goals are scored in a 90-minute game, even though players -- grown men, mind you -- roll around on the ground whimpering to get a free kick.... Read more