NSLI-Y Interactive showcases language learning and cross-cultural experiences of students on the U.S. Department of State’s National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) program. The multimedia stories on this site share the experiences of students on the NSLI-Y program with youth, educators, and language learners in the U.S. for further cultural exchange and language learning.

About NSLI-Y Interactive Submit a NSLI-Y Story About NSLI-Y Program

NSLI-Y Alumni Spotlight: Christa

Christa (she/her) is from Virginia Beach, VA and an alumna of the 2016 Hindi Summer program in Pune, India. She has her B.A. in Global Affairs with a concentration in Middle East Studies.

The NSLI-Y Host Family Connection Collaboration

Halden is from Pinehurst, NC and participated in the China Summer 2018 and Taiwan AY 2020-2021 programs.

NSLI-Y Russian Summer With A Twist

Abby Herring is from Athens, Georgia and is an alumna of the Russian Summer 2020 and 2021 VSI programs.

summer, somewhere

In this poem, Ashley gives a lyrical glimpse into her summer in South Korea.

Crows in Fur Coats

In this story, 2019 Russian summer alum Jordan brings her Moscow commute to life through vivid descriptions and tales of crows in fur coats.

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

The U.S. Department of State’s National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) provides critical language study overseas for U.S. high school students through full, merit-based scholarships to participate in intensive immersion summer and academic year programs. NSLI-Y equips participants with the linguistic skills and cultural knowledge to be leaders in a globalized world.

Recent Stories

Patrick is standing in the kitchen holding a box of falafel mix

Arabic

Virtual NSLI-Y Reflection

Patrick, an alumnus of the 2023 Virtual NSLI-Y program, reflects on his experience in the program, the impact of his cohort, and his future goals.
Four students are creating ink prints.

Chinese (Mandarin)

From Xi'an to DC: Being Open to the Unexpected

William, an alum of the 2016 NSLI-Y Chinese (Mandarin) Summer Program, shares how an unexpected injury taught him to be open and adaptable. Attending NSLI-Y's Alumni Leadership Workshop reminded him how valuable exchange and language learning can be for improving intangible skills.
Phillip standing in front of the White House

Chinese (Mandarin)

NSLI-Y Honors Asian American and Pacific Islander Month | Alumni Spotlight: Phillip

NSLI-Y is excited to honor Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) month and recognize the stories of AAPI Alumni.

Stories by Program Location Click to reveal map