Honor Society, Student Awards and Fellowships
Phi Sigma Iota
International Foreign Language Honor Society, Inc.
Student Awards
Fellowships
A language degree can significantly strengthen students’ applications for fellowships and scholarships. It sets you apart as well-prepared and culturally sensitive candidates. This is particularly true for very competitive abroad programs such as the Fulbright and the Boren fellowships as it demonstrates cultural curiosity and preparedness. It also shows the selection committee that the applicant is serious about building international collaboration and mutual understanding. For more information, contact the Nationally Competitive Fellowships Office.
What our students say on the impact of a language degree on their fellowship experience:
- “My experience with French aided me in securing a French Fulbright [in Paris, which is a very sought-after location].”
- “[Thanks to my French linguistic skills,] I will be able to learn the vocabulary and confidence to communicate about astrobiological and aerospace research in French [during my Fulbright Scholarship], which will help with international cooperation in my future career. NASA utilizes ESA labs in France for astrobiological and astrochemical research.”
- “After graduating in 2022, I completed a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Antananarivo, Madagascar. The variety in courses offered helped me gain an understanding of how historical, geographical, and even culinary influences shape language and peoples. Having this background prepared me to serve as a cultural ambassador and contribute to the strengthening of educational and cultural relationships between the U.S. and Madagascar.”
- “[Studying French] forced me to improve communication, which has served me […] during my time in France [as a Fulbright Scholar].”
