Saleh, 23, studied English education at the Islamic University of Gaza, graduating in January 2015 first in his class. Even though his major is education, Saleh is keen on translation and has held several translation positions. He now works as both an English trainer and a translator. In 2014, he was offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when he was chosen from among more than 15,000 applicants to represent the Gaza Strip in a summer school in New York. However, his dream was dashed when Israel launched its offensive on the Strip that July, depriving him of the chance. In addiiton to writing short stories, Saleh’s other interests include football, both as a player and as a fan, and (in case you hadn't guessed yet) swimming.