Utah State University Extension has recently been selected as a recipient of a prestigious grant that will bolster language learning initiatives in the state. Thanks to the generous support of the National Security Agency’s STARTALK grant program, USU Extension will be able to offer a unique two-week Mandarin Chinese language and cultural summer camp to Utah students.

The STARTALK grant, a highly competitive federal program aimed at fostering innovative language learning opportunities for K-16 students, has provided $372,000 in funding to the USU Extension Language Learning Program. Under the leadership of program director Simon Wang and program coordinator Peiru Chen, this initiative will offer language and cultural immersion activities that empower students with valuable skills and enrich their understanding of other cultures.

Chen expressed her excitement about the grant, saying, “The STARTALK grant is a testament to the diligence and dedication of our team. This program offers Utah students an incredible opportunity to enrich their understanding of other cultures and languages, especially Mandarin Chinese. It empowers them with valuable skills to benefit them throughout their lives.”

The grant funding will be utilized for the implementation of “Unlock Mandarin: A STARTALK Summer Program.” This ambitious project comprises a two-week residential camp, complemented by online pre-camp and post-camp instruction. Through the use of authentic multimedia and technology, the camp aims to provide students with an immersive experience of real-life Mandarin Chinese language and culture.

What makes this program truly exceptional is that it is the first of its kind among Utah’s public universities and is offered free of charge to Utah students. The inaugural camp will take place in June 2024 and promises to be an unforgettable experience for participants.

“This grant signifies a turning point for Utah’s K-16 students,” stated Wang. “Our program offers a learner-centered environment for students to immerse themselves in foreign languages and cultures, especially Mandarin Chinese. The funding will enable us to promote greater access to language learning in the state.”

For those interested in learning more about the program or wanting to get involved, additional information can be found at https://extension.usu.edu/language-learning. Alternatively, reach out to Peiru Chen at peiru.chen@usu.edu for further inquiries.

The USU Extension’s Language Learning Program is set to revolutionize language education in Utah, fostering a new generation of global citizens equipped with the skills to thrive in an interconnected world.

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