National Security Language
Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y)
-Hindi-

My sophomore year of high school was forever changed by an extraordinary experience:  the State Department's Virtual NSLI-Y program. Having been awarded a scholarship to study Hindi, I embarked on a ten-week deep dive into the vibrant world of language and South Asian culture, expertly guided by the passionate and knowledgeable Poonam Chauhan, a lecturer in the Hindi/Urdu department at the University of California, Davis. Sharing this classroom with a cohort of eager high school students from across the US added another layer of richness to the experience. Twice a week, from September to November 2024, I eagerly joined Zoom sessions, where the captivating Devanagari script, initially a maze of unfamiliar curves and lines, gradually transformed into a gateway to understanding. Under Poonam Ji's enthusiastic tutelage, my confidence blossomed as I unlocked grammatical structures, expanded my vocabulary, and even began to navigate basic conversations. Her 25 years of experience and infectious love for the language shone through in every lesson, making learning both fun and effective.

Beyond the structured curriculum, the program truly came alive through interactions with inspiring guest speakers. One week, I was captivated by Mr. Srijeet Mukherjee's insights into the history and significance of Hindi Day. The next, I found myself joyfully singing along to Bollywood hits with Ms. Varsha Walia, a unique and surprisingly effective method for mastering Hindi numbers! We even had a session with Ms. Vidya, where we delved into the world of yoga and learned to prepare a healthy and mouthwatering Indian snack. Poonam Ji's dedication to creating an immersive experience was evident in every carefully planned activity.

But the magic of NSLI-Y extended beyond lectures and textbooks. We immersed ourselves in hands-on cultural activities, from the intricate art of rangoli to crafting traditional diyas for Diwali. The program culminated in a talent show where I proudly presented an overview of the geography of India I had created for our entire cohort. (see below)

This scholarship wasn't just about acquiring language skills; it was a transformative experience that ignited within me a profound appreciation for cultural diversity and a deep desire to connect with the South Asian community. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Poonam Ji, my incredible teacher from UC Davis, and the State Department for providing me with this invaluable opportunity. NSLI-Y has opened my eyes to the interconnectedness of our world and the power of language to bridge divides and foster understanding. It's an experience that will forever shape my path forward.