About NSLI-Y: The National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) program was launched in 2006 to promote critical language learning among American youth. The U.S. Department of State, in cooperation with American Councils for International Education, awards and administers merit-based scholarships to high school students for participation in summer and academic year immersion programs in locations where the eight NSLI-Y languages are spoken. NSLI-Y immerses participants in the cultural life of the host country, giving them formal and informal language practice and sparking a lifetime interest in foreign languages and cultures. NSLI-Y program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.
By Keshwan Shrivilliputur
“Mera naam Keshwan Shrivilliputur hai! During my stay in India, I learnt many things and met many people. My impact story is about tennis during my stay. I play for my university tennis team back there at home, so I was worried that I would fall out of shape during my stay here in India. Luckily, my host family talked to the head coach of the Indore Tennis Club (ITC) and arranged for me to take lessons. When I first went to tennis, I expected there to be many differences. However, the practices were almost identical to those I had back home. The only difference was the language barrier, but even that was simple. The technical words were all in English. The other words used in Hindi just added to my vocabulary. My use of commands improved (as the coaches used them a lot), also my general vocabulary improved. I also managed to connect with people that I wouldn’t have, due to our common interest in the sport.”