Arizona State University Critical Languages Institute

And that's a wrap!

The Summer 2024 semester is in the books, and students got their certificates this past Friday at the CLI Graduation Celebration. Congratulations to all of the students who completed the semester, and we hope this is the beginning of an exciting journey ahead! Arizona State University

--

🎉 We wrapped up our CLI Summer Cultural Nights with a spectacular Russian Cultural Night! 🇷🇺✨

Students shined bright, performing and participating in a variety of activities, including a wonderful performance of "Kalinka" to start the night, and dancing and tea to end it.

A heartfelt thank you to all our incredible instructors and students for making this night truly special! 🙌❤️

--

Monday’s Cultural Night was a dynamic celebration of Albanian 🇦🇱 and BCS (Bosnian 🇧🇦, Croatian 🇭🇷, and Serbian 🇷🇸) cultures, showcasing incredible music and energetic dance performances.

It was an evening where students not only learned about different traditions but also forged new connections within our community.

--

Pickleball Showdown! 🎾

Last Friday, CLI instructors, faculty, and staff had a fantastic time playing an intense game of pickleball. Multiple rounds, endless excitement!🏅

--

🇹🇷 Exploring Turkic Cultures 🇺🇿 🇹🇯

Here's a throwback to Turkic cultural night this month, where we were able to learn about Tatar, Turkish, and Uzbek cultures through a competitive Kahoot game, practicing language skills, and tasty treats to finish the night. A night filled with learning and laughter!

--

What an unforgettable evening! 🎉

Our Persian and Armenian Night was filled with vibrant cultures, rhythms and dancing, and delicious cuisine! From traditional dances to authentic flavors, we celebrated in style. Thank you to everyone who joined us and made this night so special!

--

On Monday, CLI launched this summer's Cultural Night series, celebrating Ukrainian and Polish cultures this week. Students and faculty immersed themselves in engaging talks, captivating presentations, lively dancing, and joyful sing-alongs. It was a fantastic evening of cultural exchange and community bonding! Arizona State University

--

Listen Up, CLI Friends! 📚💬

Join us on a literary adventure tomorrow, June 4th, at the Russian Club! We're diving deep into the captivating theme of "Pushkin is our everything." Trust us, you won't want to miss this thought-provoking discussion!

--

📸 Attention ASU CLI students! It's time for our annual photo contest! 🌟

Submit your best high-res photos for a chance to win:

🏆 1st Place: $50 Amazon Gift Card
🥈 2nd Place: $25 Amazon Gift Card
🥉 3rd Place: $10 Amazon Gift Card

Separate contests for domestic and international students, with identical prizes!

Guidelines:

∙ High-resolution photos only (no blurry or low-res images)
∙ Keep it professional (no shirtless or inappropriate content)
∙ Each student can submit up to 5 photos.

Domestic Contest Deadline: July 10
Study Abroad Contest Deadline: August 7

--

Embarking on a summer journey of cultural exploration in Ankara, Türkiye, thanks to the Critical Languages Scholarship, Nikola Kajmakoski, a first-generation Macedonian-American, delves into Turkish culture with fervor. With CLI as his foundation, Nikola is ready to deepen his understanding with CLS.

🔗 Go here to read more: https://ow.ly/YOsw50RGs2n

--

Arizona State University's Academic Bowl Team, including Critical Languages Institute Alumni Jaik Havlick, has just secured a spot in the prestigious ACF Nationals! This historic achievement marks ASU's first-ever qualification, with Jaik crediting his language studies for the team's success.

🔗 Read the article here: https://ow.ly/P7wS50RaUgN

--

Get ready for the summer semester with CLI summer courses starting next month! Whether you're catching up or gearing up, now's the perfect time to prepare in your language of choice!

--

CLI's Dr. J [James Edmonds] sat down with Rafaela Prifti of Dielli Newspaper in NYC to discuss all things Albanian program this summer! 🌞

🔗 Watch the full interview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBOtijkbZNs

--

Learning Albanian at the Critical Language Institute Critical Language Institute Dr. James Edmonds reveals the incredible benefits of enrolling in the Albanian Language Program at Arizona State University.https...

Take a look at this great interview Dr. James Edmonds participated in with Gazeta Dielli, as they spoke on the importance of learning Albanian within the CLI Albanian program this summer!

Prospects and Advantages of Learning Albanian at CLI this Summer, Director James Edmonds Eager for New Applicants

Rafaela Prifti

The Albanian program has had a generally modest enrollment in over two decades since its start at the Tempe campus Arizona State University in 2003. Doctor James Edmonds, Director of Critical Language Institute (CLI) at Melikian Center and Professor Linda Meniku of Tirana University, who instructs the immersive summer course, are hoping to increase interest and bring in more students this year. In the current global landscape, it would seem that Albanian might be the “underdog” compared with the interest in some other East European languages. Yet, Alexis Zoto, Associate Professor at the University of Southern California, and a 2020 alumna of Albanian program at CLI, believes that recent archeological discoveries such as the settlement of Europe’s oldest lakeside village in Albania and the cultural heritage preservation in a growing Albanian diaspora are big pointers in favor of learning an Indo-European language that is the only surviving representative of the Albanoid branch in the Paleo-Balkan group. Certainly, two linguistic experts who had the vision to launch more Balkan Languages at CLI appreciated its significance. Renowned Professors Danko Sipka and Lee B. Croft both have been in leadership positions at the Critical Language Institute prior to moving on to other academic pursuits.

Thanks to Arizona State University (ASU) institutional support, the Melikian Center has carried its proud legacy through the language programs. Prior to joining CLI, Dr. James Edmond was resident director in Bali, Indonesia as well as program coordinator positions. His regional focus is Indonesia, Southeast Asia. Besides English, he speaks Indonesian, Japanese, Arabic, and is passionate about Albania, its language and history. Doctor Jamie Edmonds is Director of Critical Language Institute (CLI), Associate Director at Melikian Center: Russian, Euroasian East European Studies at Arizona State University, and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Religious Studies. Informally, he goes by Dr. J. In a Zoom interview in February, we spoke about the unique features of the program, what the draw has been for the students in previous years, the scholarships that are available to the applicants, funding by different agencies and the prospects of joining the program in the summer of 2024.

Among the variety of applicants who have come through the program “from all across the spectrum from high schoolers to traditional undergraduates to community college students,” Dr. Edmonds recalled “a PhD candidate working in linguistics who did the dissertation on Albanian and even a member of our advisory Board. On the other hand, we have members of the Albanian community in United States, who have come from various backgrounds to reconnect with their roots, their culture.”

When it comes to the difficulty of learning it, which is a consideration for potential applicants, Dr. J has full confidence in the abilities of Professor Meniku, a highly qualified professional, who is also the author of the program’s textbooks.

“The unique feature of the program is that it is tuition free, apart for fees associated with covering the administration costs of the class,” says Dr. Edmonds. It is not an online program, although the instructions were given online during the pandemic. For the CLI Director, the community setting enhances the value of the program. “It is a really unique opportunity to engage with a bunch of language nerds, or people with different interests in a shared space of community while learning a language in an intense environment.” How intense? At the beginner’s level, there is a seven-week-instructions on campus then four weeks in Tirana. You can do either one of those options the first year. “If you do seven weeks, you get eight language credits. If you go abroad, you get eleven credits, as well as cultural excursions for an additional fee.”



Dr. Edmonds truly appreciates the distinction of the CLI program from a university setting or a traditional classroom, if you will. “You are not taught language in a vacuum. You're not taught through route memorization. You're taught to read and understand the language from deep within its cultural historic pass.”

It gets even better. There are specific scholarships that are available to students who want to learn Albanian. This is how it works: You apply for a grant through the Melikian Center awards program and follow the steps. If at any point you may have questions or want to enquire more, you can contact the office or speak directly to an administrator.

“The time for building a pipeline of talented Albanian speakers is now,” says Dr. Edmonds, who believes that it's not naïve to prepare now for the uncertainties of the future. “I can tell you that learning a language in an intensive environment focusing on context will absolutely make you an outstanding candidate. Whether you want go in some kind of government service, whether you want to serve your community, want to do academic work, or you don’t plan to actually use the language, but rather teach your brain in a different way, you might consider taking Albanian,” adding that “we do need more speakers of it.”

There is a brilliant piece on the ASU website written in 2017 to mark the 15th year of the Albanian language program. It relates interesting facts and stories of students who took the class to communicate with their Albanians grandparents, or their in-laws in Albania, or set up grants to help others learn it as in the example of a member of the US coast guard who was deployed at camp Bondsteel in Kosova.

Whether they are in the US or abroad, the alumni of the Albanian course of CLI are firm believers of the value of the program, as is the case of Professor Alexis Zoto https://gazetadielli.com/alexis-zoto-honors-the-albanian-cultural-heritage-you-can-do-your-part/ who shared her story last year.

Dr. Edmonds and Professor Meniku look forward and welcome the new stories of the summer applicants of 2024 Albanian program at CLI, Melikian Center. To find out more about the unique features of a program with a proud legacy, and start your own discovery of Albanian, the Director of CLI invites anyone to go to https://melikian.asu.edu/cli or reach out directly to [email protected]

Extended talk with Dr. Edmonds will be available online

Photo Courtesy: Professor Linda Meniku, Class of 2017, Tempe Campus, Albanian Language Program, CLI, Melikian Center, ASU

🌟✨Alumni Spotlight 🌟✨

The next addition to the alumni spotlight is Charlotte Benchoff, a shining star from the CLI Russian program. Charlotte's story is one of determination, passion, and unwavering commitment to both language learning and the vibrant world of Film and Media Arts.

With her exceptional talent and drive, Charlotte not only received the FLAS scholarship but also secured the coveted Undergraduate Fellowship from the Melikian Center. These accolades speak volumes about her dedication and excellence in her chosen fields.

Want to delve deeper into Charlotte's CLI experience?

🔗 Go to this link: https://ow.ly/kAk350QGuio

--

The summer 2024 semester is fast approaching, but there's still time to apply to the language adventure you've been dreaming of. You'll have the opportunity to let the globe transform into your classroom with exciting study-abroad opportunities!

Imagine immersing yourself in the vibrant cultures of Bali, Bishkek, Sarajevo, Tashkent, Tirana, Yerevan, or Warsaw, where you can truly put your language skills to the test.

Don't miss out on this chance to broaden your horizons and expand your language proficiency!

🔗Apply here: https://ow.ly/stuP50QGhUU

--

🌟 Alumni Spotlight 🌟

For our first installment in our alumni spotlight, we spoke to Kevin Morris, a Title VIII Fellowship recipient and CLI alumni from the Macedonian program! Kevin talked with us about his experiences, from discovering the program to its influence on his career dreams.

Dive into his story of learning a new language and its profound impact on his professional trajectory.

🔗Go here to read more: https://ow.ly/uZR950QCoP2
--

Spreading Global Enchantment 🌐✨

The Melikian Center rocked the Chandler Multicultural Festival this weekend! Our team engaged with diverse individuals, sharing the incredible opportunities offered by the Critical Languages Institute program as the application deadline approaches.

CLI is ideal for those seeking to fast-track their careers and expand their global knowledge!

🔗Apply here: https://melikian.asu.edu/cli

--

We're getting even closer to this year's CLI program! 🚀

Uncover the beauty of Macedonian language education with Borce Arsov at Arizona State University. As an enthusiastic instructor, Borce brings the linguistic and cultural essence of Macedonia to the forefront, making every class an exciting exploration for students.

🔗 Learn more about CLI's Macedonian program: https://ow.ly/2Jyp50QkkE1

Project GO Alumni Spotlight ✨🔦

The spotlight lights on to 1st-Year Project Global Officer Alumni Shelby Rock!

She had the incredible opportunity to extend her studies to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, as part of last year's Project GO program.

Little did she anticipate that beyond the academic journey, she would also bring back a delightful furry companion – meet Kochi, the charming Kyrgyz cat who stole her heart! 🌍🐾

--

Get ready for the upcoming Critical Language Institute program! 🚀

Dive into the world of Armenian language education with our dedicated instructor, Gohar Harutyunyan! Every year, she passionately fulfills her calling by teaching Arizona State University students the importance of the Armenian language.

🔗 Learn more about CLI's Armenian program: https://ow.ly/QJwr50QfM0t

--

Calling All ROTC Students! 📣

Eager to explore a foreign language? Consider Project GO as your ideal program! Discover Project GO, where you can learn Russian in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, or Indonesian in Denpasar, Indonesia!

If you have any questions or need help applying, make sure to attend the Project GO Webinar on Thursday, December 7, 2023 at 3:00 PM ET.

✏️ APPLY HERE: https://www.rotcprojectgo.org

🗓️ Register for the webinar here: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_OdzClzeoSJ2xX9Vo7zOfxg

🔗 Learn more about Project GO:

Russian: https://melikian.asu.edu/cli/russian
Indonesian: https://melikian.asu.edu/cli/indonesian



--

Spreading the word about CLI! 🌍🎓

Last Friday, The Melikian Center hit the road to Mesa Community College for their International Education Week. We had a fantastic time spotlighting the Critical Languages Institute, underscoring the incredible opportunities it provides for students and their overarching career paths.

🔗 Explore more here: https://ow.ly/T3IT50Qa3XB

--

Exploring Language Wonders at Armenian Fest! 🌍✨

The Melikian Center dipped into the vibrant world of Armenian Fest this weekend! Beyond the fun festivities, we took the opportunity to share the excitement about next summer's Critical Languages Institute program, informing, engaging, and spreading the love of language! Arizona State University

--

The energy at ASU Homecoming was contagious! 🏈

The Melikian Center had a fantastic this past weekend at ASU Homecoming! We were thrilled to host a booth and engage with the vibrant ASU community, spreading the word about the Critical Languages Institute program and all the fantastic opportunities it currently presents to our fellow students. Arizona State University

--

🏆🌐 MASTER NEW LANGUAGES 🏆🌐

If you're eager to explore the world through the captivating lens of various languages or keen on acquiring career-enhancing skills, the Critical Languages Institute summer program at Arizona State University is your ideal destination.

Discover a world of opportunities, immersive experiences, and personal growth. Don't miss out – seize the chance to excel in your career journey!

🔗 Apply now: https://ow.ly/oJtl50Q0nJQ

Happy Uzbek Language Day! 🇺🇿🌐

On Uzbek Language Day, we commemorate the significance of October 21, 1989, when Uzbek was first declared as the state language.

ASU and the Critical Languages Institute extends its warmest congratulations to educators and learners of Uzbek worldwide, with special recognition for Dr. Saodat Adilova and her 100+ Uzbek language students since 2008.

At the Critical Languages Institute, we continue teaching this language in-person and abroad. Our engaging and interactive seven-week program offers an incredible opportunity for language enthusiasts to delve into the language with Uzbek Professor Adilova, who has over two and a half decades of experience teaching Uzbek as a foreign language.

Exciting news, aspiring ROTC cadets! 📢

Project GO applications are officially open! Dive headfirst into the world of fully funded opportunities that will propel your ROTC journey to new heights. Embark on an incredible personal and professional growth path through crucial language training, international studies, and cross-cultural adventures. Spots for these life-changing opportunities are limited, and they fill up quickly, so don't wait too long! Arizona State University

🔗Go here to apply: https://ow.ly/mxk850PVKRp