State Department's Critical Language Studies (CLS) Program.
culture.
The program received more than 5,200 applications for
575 scholarships. It provides group-based, intensive language
instruction and structured cultural enrichment. CLS participants
are expected to continue their language study beyond the
scholarship and apply their critical language skills in their future
professional careers.
From Charlotte, N.C., Dillard double-majored in sociology and
religious studies with a minor in Asian studies. He has studied
abroad on several occasions and was involved in many campus
activities.
From Indonesia, he sent this report on August 2.
Q. You were well-traveled as a student at UNCP. Where did you
study?
Korea twice and did an internship in Vietnam. On the way, I have
made several stops in neighboring countries in East and Southeast
Asia.
Q. As an undergraduate, you were an extraordinarily engaged
student. What did you gain from these experiences, and what
were a couple of your favorite experiences?
being active. When I volunteer, my life feels as if there is a bit
more purpose. It is our duty to give back to our communities.
That said, my favorite highlights, of course, were working with
Center for Civic and Community and Engagement. Christie
Poteet and Aubrey Swett were there from the beginning and gave
me many opportunities to plan, present and work on different
aspects of community development. I still remember collecting
plants and materials for our community garden with Christie and
rehearsing my presentation on my project with Mr. Swett. From
past projects, I have learned to be ready for anything and to just
go for what you want, even if you are hesitant. In addition, I
also learned to be more flexible and creative. Other experiences
include working with the admissions office. Whenever there is an
opportunity to bridge gaps, I will be there.
Q. What languages have you studied before this summer?
A. I have studied quite a few languages. First, I have studied
Spanish and French from an early age. At UNCP, I continued
both of these languages and also began studying Chinese.
Through studying in Korea, I started learning the Korean
language. Actually, these languages have helped in my studies
with Indonesian because there are so many "loan" words with
the language.
undergraduate?
A. I have always been interested in foreign cultures since my
youth, but I had my first taste of international studies through
traveling with Dr. James Robinson (sociology professor) to