How do I not come across as a weirdo?

To keep it simple I became really fascinated by the Middle East and I want to work somewhere within the region as an archeologist. Regardless if it works out I still love the culture, history, and people. I know everything has its problems and the Middle East is no exception but it is too cool for me to be pushed away. I as an Irish/Greek American could identify with a lot but it was also very different and it felt like there was more new things to be learned and fascinated by. I was asked by an Afghani classmate why I "wanted to study her". I froze and I kinda felt like a weirdo trying to explain myself. She was nice and non-judgmental but I am now concerned about appearing like an orientalist, colonizer, and fetishist. If someone was interested in your culture or community what would you like them to say vs not say.