NSLI-Y Scholars in Beijing and Istanbul
ACES launched its second year of the US Department of State’s National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) program at the end of June in Washington DC. Two groups of 20 US high school students traveled with ACES staff and Resident Directors for the long flights to Beijing and Istanbul, respectively. Language classes began after students oriented themselves with their host families and their new cities. Here are some comments about the program so far:
“The students appreciate the fast-pace and immersion approach. The teachers have learned all of the students' names and are very balanced on calling on different students for responses. There is a lot of repetition and impromptu dialogues encouraged between the students. The curriculum includes a mix of speaking, writing, and listening activities. The teachers like to introduce additional materials alongside the text. The students are making good progress, and it is clear that much of the material introduced so far has come up in the homestay environment.” Dane, ACES Resident Director, Istanbul Turkey
“We are learning a lot, unlike my regular school, where it would have taken us 3 months to learn all the material that we covered in the last week!” Milonee, NSLI-Y Student, Turkey
“I like how the classes are small so the teacher can help all of the students. There is nothing İ would change.” Elan, NSLI-Y Student, Turkey
“Our teachers are very enthusiastic and very willing to help us learn. My favorite experience so far has been my stay with my host family. They were extremely welcoming and immediately made me feel comfortable in their home. Living with them has taught me a lot about Chinese family culture and what some Chinese people enjoy doing in their free time. I am grateful to have been matched with such an enthusiastic and kind host family and I look forward to spending the remaining weekends with them!” Jordan, NSLI-Y Student, China
“My favorite experience so far has been spending the first weekend with my host family. It was everything that I had hoped for and more. The amount that I learned in those two days with the help of my host sister, brother, and parents baffles me. Because I am always concerned about making a good impression around my new family, I have been forced to always keep an open mind; I know that honing my ability to keep an open mind and adjust to my surroundings through communication and understanding will help me develop into a stronger individual. I relish the opportunity to improve myself and represent America that spending time with my host family provides.” Rohan, NSLI-Y Student, China
“My favorite experience was my first dinner with my host family. Even though they laughed at my chopstick skills and often started talking about things I didn't understand, everything I experienced in that moment was so new and exciting. My host sister has been an incredible help with teaching me Chinese and making sure I become immersed in the culture.” Emilia, NSLI-Y Student, China
The NSLI-Y students will return to the USA in mid-August after six weeks of language and cultural immersion. For more information on the NSLI-Y program visit: www.nsliforyouth.org.