The Critical Language Scholarship
The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) is a fully funded language and cultural immersion program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. It aims to expand the number of Americans who can speak languages critical to U.S. engagement around the world and to promote mutual understanding between nations.
Before arriving in Indonesia, I expected to gain a strong foundation in Bahasa Indonesia and a better understanding of the country’s culture and political dynamics. Those expectations were not only met but exceeded in every way. The immersive environment (living with a host family, attending daily intensive language classes, and engaging in community-based learning) allowed me to grow far beyond the classroom. I came to appreciate the rich diversity of Indonesia, its regional differences, and the warmth and resilience of its people. The program fostered not only linguistic growth but also a profound sense of cultural empathy and global citizenship.
Being surrounded by other CLS scholars who shared similar passions for language learning, international relations, and cultural exchange was incredibly inspiring. Every student came from a different academic and personal background, yet we were united by the same curiosity and sense of purpose. I felt a deep sense of belonging and motivation among peers who were equally committed to understanding the world beyond their own borders. That shared spirit of learning reinforced my belief in the importance of global engagement and collaboration.
During my time in Indonesia, I participated primarily in language coursework in Bahasa Indonesia at Universitas Negeri Malang, complemented by immersive cultural activities, excursions, and community involvement. Although the core of the program centered on language instruction, it offered so much more. I volunteered at American Corners, took courses on batik and local Javanese dance, ran with local run clubs, and learned through firsthand experiences about the people that make Indonesia, Indonesia. These experiences enriched my understanding of the country in a way that textbooks or classroom lectures alone could never replicate.
Studying abroad through CLS has had a lasting impact on both my academic and career goals. The experience strengthened my regional expertise, language proficiency, and cultural adaptability, skills that directly support my work at UC San Diego and my long-term interest in diplomacy and international policy. Being immersed in a new environment challenged me to think critically, communicate across differences, and engage with complex global issues in a hands-on way. It reaffirmed my desire to pursue a career centered on international collaboration, empathy, and service.
To other undergraduate students, I would wholeheartedly recommend applying for the Critical Language Scholarship. It is fully funded, and you even get a stipend to participate! It is far more than a language program; it’s a journey of personal growth, cultural exchange, and professional development. CLS challenges you to step out of your comfort zone, engage deeply with another culture, and gain perspectives that will shape how you view the world. Whether your interests lie in politics, medicine, education, business, or the arts, the skills and insights you gain will remain invaluable throughout your life. Participating in CLS not only opens doors academically and professionally but also fosters a lifelong commitment to cross-cultural understanding and global citizenship.
Connect with us!