Brenda Gao, a University of Iowa student studying psychology, from Iowa City, Iowa, has been awarded a 2025 U.S. Department of State Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) to study Japanese this summer in Okayama, Japan. 

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. 

Brenda’s interest in Japanese began at an early age. 

“I was fascinated by the similarities between Chinese characters used in Mandarin and Japanese, and started taking Japanese classes in high school,” shared Gao. “I believe studying new languages is important because it promotes learning about new cultures, values, and norms." 

“I believe studying new languages is important because it promotes learning about new cultures, values, and norms." 

Gao’s decision to pursue a CLS was influenced by her involvement with the Japanese language program and an inspiring conversation with a fellow student.  
 
"In 2023, I put together a 'Let’s go to Japan' study abroad bulletin board as a Japanese Language Ambassador for the Division of World Languages, Literatures, and Cultures,” explained Gao. “I was interviewing fellow students in the Japanese program about their experiences abroad in Japan when I talked to Abby Fowler, a 2023 CLS Japanese alum, about her CLS experience. That’s when I first found out about the program, and she was the one who convinced me to apply." 

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 want to work with Asian American populations, and developing high proficiency in Japanese will allow me to build trust, as language and cultural understanding are essential for effective communication," said Gao. 

When reflecting on her application experience, Gao emphasized the importance of self-confidence and utilizing campus resources. 

“Don’t underestimate yourself,” said Gao. “I was doubtful and didn’t think I would be someone CLS was ‘looking for.’ Abby convinced me that I was qualified, and Sylvia Dean and Dr. Karen Wachsmuth at International Programs were essential to helping me find my ‘why’ and perfect my application. I couldn’t have done it without the support around me, and I encourage everyone to join International Programs’ mailing list to find out about upcoming workshops and opportunities.” 

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.