Oxford College of Emory University STARTALK Program

A STARTALK Journey through Moroccan Cuisine and Festivities!

STARTALK, a three-part Arabic language immersion program, is designed for students with prior knowledge of Arabic and targets the Intermediate Level. The program enhances students’ knowledge of Arabic language and Arab culture through its thematic focus on the topics of food and festivities in the North African country of Morocco.

In addition to classes, daily immersion sessions during the residential summer camp allow participants to engage with the language in a more relaxed environment, listening to Arabic music, watching documentaries and shows, participating in cooking Moroccan dishes, and occasionally interacting with native speakers of Arabic virtually.

The program seeks to develop students’ Arabic linguistic proficiency and cultural competence. By the end of the program, students will reach the Advanced Low/Mid. level.

Our program is limited to 28 students. Both high school and college students (grades 9-14) nationwide are eligible to apply.

PRICING

There's no cost to participants. The program is free! Specifically, the program will cover room and board costs for the duration of the residential summer camp. Students are still responsible for the transportation costs to the program site (Oxford College of Emory University).

SCHEDULE

Pre-camp to run virtually on April 1-2, April 15-16, June 17-18, June 24-25, 2023. Synchronous sessions will run between 9:45 AM and 3:00 PM Eastern on Saturdays & Sundays.

The residential summer camp (July 12-28, 2023) to be held on Oxford College campus.

Post-camp to run virtually on Sept. 30-Oct. 1, Oct. 14-15, and Oct. 28-29, 2023. Synchronous sessions will run between 9:45 AM and 3:00 PM Eastern on Saturdays & Sundays.

APPLICATION AND DEADLINES

Application deadline: March 1, 2023
Letter of Recommendation Deadline: March 7, 2023
Student Acceptance Notification: by March 15, 2023
Student Attendance Confirmation: by March 20, 2023

APPLY FOR STARTALK PROGRAM

Oxford College's STARTALK program director is Dr. Anouar El Younssi, Assistant Professor of Arabic & Middle Eastern Studies. STARTALK is a federal grant program managed and funded by the National Security Agency. STARTALK grants fund innovative programs with strong language learning outcomes for K-14 students in support of the STARTALK goals nationwide.