Emma Anderson, a University of Iowa student studying international relations and political science, from Boone, Iowa, has been awarded a 2025 U.S. Department of State Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) to study Persian this summer in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.
The CLS scholarship is a U.S. Department of State program designed to broaden the base of Americans studying and mastering critical languages while fostering relationships between people of the U.S. and other countries.
"I value cultural understanding, and the best way to truly comprehend a culture is to know the language, immerse oneself in it, engage in conversations with its people, and bring those experiences home to foster mutual understanding.”
Anderson’s interest in the Persian language began with a desire to learn more about Iranian culture and geopolitics, and how an internship experience played a pivotal role in shaping her decision.
“The Human Rights certificate program offers an internship opportunity with Scholars at Risk,” shared Anderson. “During this internship, I had the invaluable opportunity to advocate for Dr. Ahmadreza Djalali, an Iranian-Swedish dual national who is arbitrarily imprisoned in Iran. This was deeply moving work, trying to amplify the voices of those whose dignity has been denied to them. Through this internship, I became fascinated with the geopolitics of the region and Iranian culture, which ultimately motivated me to pursue a CLS to learn Persian Farsi. I believe that learning Persian is essential, as language is a vital tool for bridging apprehension between cultures. I value cultural understanding, and the best way to truly comprehend a culture is to know the language, immerse oneself in it, engage in conversations with its people, and bring those experiences home to foster mutual understanding.”
CLS participants are expected to continue their language study beyond the scholarship period and apply their critical language skills in their future professional careers.
“In the future, I plan to attend law school to work in international law or national security law, with a focus on Iran,” said Anderson. “My CLS experience will allow me to enhance language skills that I'll need to connect with and learn from Persian speakers, and having those skills will open up more opportunities to live and work in the region in the future.”
When asked to share advice for students who might feel intimidated by the scholarship process, Anderson encouraged everyone to apply and take advantage of the people and resources the UI has to offer.
“Whether it is for a language you have already studied in college or one that fascinates you, even if you have no previous experience with the language, just apply," said Anderson. "Take some time to consider which language aligns best with your goals. Seek advice from anyone and everyone; bring your essay drafts to professors, mentors, friends, and especially Dr. Karen Wachsmuth and Sylvia Dean, who are invaluable resources. Experiencing new cultures and learning a new language foster understanding and brings people together in ways that are unmatched by any other means.”
Learn more about the Critical Language Scholarship
International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement. IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.