The Critical Language Scholarship Program (CLS), a program of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, named four WKU students as Semi-Finalists for the 2024 award cycle.  

CLS is an intensive overseas language and cultural immersion program for American undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at U.S. colleges and universities. Recipients spend a fully funded eight to ten weeks abroad in intensive language instruction and structured cultural enrichment designed to promote rapid language gains and cultural proficiency. Applications are evaluated in two rounds by a nationwide community of university language teachers, study abroad professionals, and fellowships advisors. Semi-Finalists are designated after the first round, and Finalists are offered awards in March after the second round. Once they accept, they become CLS recipients. 

WKU’s Semi-Finalists for the 2024 Critical Language Scholarships are: 

Lilian Branch (Chinese) of Chattanooga, Tennessee studies molecular biotechnology and Chinese. Lilian is a member of the Chinese Flagship Program.

Samuel Engel (Portuguese) of Franklin studies visual arts with a concentration in graphic design. Samuel was previously awarded a Lifetime Experience Grant from the Office of Scholar Development. 

Emma Harris (Korean) of Owensboro studies international affairs and English with a concentration in professional writing, as well as a minor in psychological science. Emma is a member of the Chinese Flagship Program.

Meghan Pierce (Arabic) of Smiths Grove studies international affairs, Arabic, and economics. Meghan was previously awarded a Gilman Scholarship for study abroad in Jordan. 

Applicants worked with Melinda Grimsley and Will Randolph in the Office of Scholar Development in preparing their applications. Working with OSD advisors to conceptualize, draft, and revise their application essays, students inventory their experiences and develop them into a cohesive narrative that extends into one possible future. All applicants gain clarity about their skills, interests, and plans for the future, regardless of competition results. 

About the Critical Language Scholarship: The CLS Program is part of a U.S. government initiative to expand the number of Americans studying and mastering foreign languages that are critical to national security and economic prosperity. CLS plays an important role in preparing American students for the 21st century’s globalized workforce and increasing national competitiveness. 

About the Office of Scholar Development: The Office of Scholar Development is committed to helping WKU students in all majors and degree programs develop the vision, experience, and skills to be independent, engaged scholars. OSD staff welcome the opportunity to work with any student interested in nationally competitive scholarships that #makemorepossible. 

Contact: Melinda Grimsley, (270) 745-5043