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STARTALK Grant - Arabic Language Program (Exploring the Madina)

Vmi Alumni Association

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Funding Amount

$141,000

Deadline

Rolling / Open

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

STARTALK Grant - Arabic Language Program

Funder: National Security Agency (NSA) via competitive grant funding

Geographic Scope: United States; program held at VMI in Lexington, Virginia

Program Name: Exploring the Madina (madina = Arabic word for city)

Overview: A competitive $141,000 grant received for the 2023-24 academic year to teach Arabic, a language deemed "critically needed" by the U.S. Department of State. The grant provides scholarships for six credit hours of Arabic study for 15 students.

Program Details

Focus: Teaching Arabic language and cultural proficiency

Program Components:

  • Takes complete beginners to the intermediate level of Arabic

  • Gain cultural proficiency through guest lectures

  • Performances of authentic Arab music

  • Immersive experience of a "Mousem" festival

  • Oral proficiency interview for each student with goal of reaching novice speaking level or better

    • Schedule:

  • Summer classroom lessons: June 26 - July 23, 2023 (5 hours per day)

  • Fall and Spring semesters: 60-90 minutes per week

  • Cultural events before, during, and at conclusion of program (May 2024)

    • Eligibility

    • Current high school sophomores (in 2022-23 school year)
    • High school juniors (in 2022-23 school year)
    • High school seniors (in 2022-23 school year)
    • First-year college students (in 2022-23 school year)

    Why Arabic?

    According to Maj. Jason W. Schroepfer, Ph.D., assistant professor of modern languages and cultures:

  • The United States is engaged politically, militarily, and economically in the Middle East and North Africa

  • Arabic is the fifth most spoken language in the world

  • Proficient Arabic speakers are in high demand

  • Students who learn Arabic will have an advantage in acquiring good-paying jobs

    • Contact Information

    VMI Alumni Agencies

  • Phone: 800-444-1839 or 540-464-7328

  • Fax: 540-463-1701

  • Email: give@vmiaa.org

  • Address: P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450

    • Program Contact:

  • Maj. Jason W. Schroepfer, Ph.D., Department of Modern Languages and Cultures

    • How to Apply

    Application Process

    Status: Applications currently being accepted (as of article publication date)

    Timeline:

  • Participants will be selected in February

  • Program begins June 26, 2023

    • Steps:
    1. Complete application (details available via link on VMI website)
    2. Submit application by deadline
    3. Selected in February for participation

    Required Information:

  • Application materials (specific requirements found on application portal)

    • Note: For additional information and to apply, visit the program application portal (referenced but specific URL not provided in source material)

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