U.S. Department of State
Cultural knowledge and understanding are critical for language learning. NSLI-Y participants benefit from studying in an immersive environment abroad rich in opportunities for language practice and culture exploration.
Cultural Experiences
NSLI-Y Cultural Experiences Abroad
NSLI-Y programs provide daily opportunities for culture exploration, which enhance language learning. Through immersion in the host culture, NSLI-Y participants:
- improve their language skills through frequent conversations with native speakers on a range of topics
- gain cultural competence and insight into local customs, traditions, history, and society
- improve their adaptability, independence, and problem-solving skills
- gain a global perspective
- connect with host family, peers and community members
- represent American culture and values as citizen ambassadors
Cultural activities may include:
- Lessons, lectures, and projects relating to the arts, traditions, and modern culture of places where the target language is spoken
- Visits to cultural sites of interest
- Service projects in the local host community
In their own words…
“I was able to learn not only more about my host county and its culture but also about myself. [NSLI-Y] pushed me to view things from a different perspective and open my mind. Every day was a new experience.”
Kaylee, NSLI-Y Chinese Alumna
NSLI-Y Abroad Cultural Experiences FAQ
NSLI-Y participants gain cultural knowledge both in the classroom, and through informal interactions in the host community. Most NSLI-Y summer programs abroad include a few formal cultural activities each week. Academic year programs abroad usually include one arranged cultural activity most weeks of the school year. Excursions outside of the host city are possible but not guaranteed.
Common cultural activities include:
- Lessons on traditional arts, cooking, dance, or martial arts
- Talks by local subject matter experts
- Visits to museums, cultural sites, and local attractions
- Possible overnight excursions
- Possible community service projects
Cultural activities vary by site and are subject to change.
Cultural activities help participants gain new perspectives, develop a deeper appreciation for the differences and similarities between cultures, connect to their host community, and support language learning.
Virtual NSLI-Y Cultural Experiences
In addition to language learning, Virtual NSLI-Y introduces participants to the people and culture of places where the target language is spoken and fosters intercultural understanding, with program components designed around global competence.
Virtual NSLI-Y Cultural Experiences FAQ
Since language learning and cultural understanding go hand in hand, Virtual NSLI-Y classes incorporate content about the cultures where the target language is spoken.
The Virtual NSLI-Y curriculum also includes at least four classroom guest speakers over the course of the program. Guest speakers engage participants in topics relating to contemporary culture, traditional arts and cuisine, and other cultural themes.
Common cultural activities include:
- Interactive lessons on traditional art techniques, calligraphy, cooking, music, or dance
- Talks by subject matter experts
- Virtual visits to museums, cultural sites, or markets and local attractions
Cultural activities help participants gain new perspectives, develop a deeper appreciation for the differences and similarities between cultures, and support language learning.
Virtual NSLI-Y opened me up to a whole new culture and part of the world I was unfamiliar with. I now wish to pursue a career in international relations.
Camille, Virtual NSLI-Y Russian Alumna
