FSU Students Win 10 Scholarships to Study Critical Languages

Ten Florida State University students just proved that investing in language skills can open doors to extraordinary opportunities around the world.

During the last two application cycles, FSU students earned four Boren Awards and six Critical Language Scholarships to study languages considered critical to U.S. national security and economic interests. These aren't just any study abroad programs—they're fully funded, immersive experiences lasting eight weeks to a full year in places like Morocco, Taiwan, India, and Latvia.

Senior Gage Stanton hit the jackpot, earning both awards. He received a Critical Language Scholarship to study Russian during the 2025-26 academic year, then secured a Boren Scholarship for 2026-27 and is currently studying Russian overseas.

Nadia Rassech spent nine months in Rabat, Morocco, where she studied Arabic while living with a host family. The international affairs graduate didn't just learn verb conjugations—she built meaningful connections through internships with a local nonprofit supporting refugee communities.

"My biggest takeaway was not only my language development, but also the community that I was able to build in that city," Rassech said. "I don't think I would have gotten nearly as much out of this experience if I hadn't been in one place for a whole academic year."

The Boren Awards provide up to $20,000 for undergraduate students to study in regions underrepresented in study abroad programs. Recipients commit to working in the federal government after graduation, creating a pipeline of culturally competent professionals who understand the world beyond America's borders.

Shovik Saha took his scholarship to Jaipur, India, where studying Hindi complemented his native Bangla. The 2026 graduate started as a beginner and reached intermediate mid-proficiency in just eight weeks—skills he's now maintaining as he prepares for law school and a career in environmental law.

The Ripple Effect

These scholarships do more than pad resumes. They create citizen ambassadors who bring global perspectives back to their communities and future careers.

Maya O'Donnell studied Russian in Latvia while pursuing her graduate degree in international affairs. Sandra Leis learned Mandarin in Taiwan before starting her graduate studies in East Asian languages and cultures. Each student returned with not just language skills but deep cultural understanding that will shape their professional contributions for decades.

FSU supports this global vision through resources like the Arabic Language House, where students live with native speakers and practice beyond the classroom. The university's Middle East Center and Center for Global Engagement help students prepare for and maximize these competitive opportunities.

In an increasingly connected world, these ten students are building bridges through language—one conversation, one relationship, one cultural exchange at a time.