This year, 44 graduate students from 20 countries attended the Fulbright Pre-Academic Program at Syracuse University’s English Language Institute.
Before matriculating into their degree programs at institutions across the United States, the Fulbright students gathered in Syracuse for four weeks to participate in a variety of workshops, field trips, and textual and oral communication courses. During the pre-academic program, the students discovered the power of community as they connected with the diverse international network.
“We have a great group of Fulbrighters. No matter where we come from, we are making friends with each other,” says Viengnakhone Moonivong, a Fulbright master’s student from Laos.
Viengnakhone Moonivong
With research stemming from different cultural backgrounds and interests, the pre-academic program offered a platter of opportunities to connect with one another, reminding the cohort that they all share a similar goal.
Oscar Fernandez
“We will be friends for the rest of our lives because we share a dream, which is to have a better world,” says Oscar Fernandez, Fulbright master’s student from Honduras. “It’s very easy to connect with people who have such beautiful energy.”
At the end of the four weeks, students left the pre-academic program feeling inspired by the camaraderie built among the cohort.
Enjoy the highlights from the 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program below!
The 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic cohort takes a group photo in front of the College of Professional Studies.
2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program Workshop
2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program Poster Session
The 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic cohort tours Hendricks Chapel.
The 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic cohort takes a group photo at Green Lakes State Park.
The 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic cohort takes a group photo in front of Hendricks Chapel.
2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program Poster Session
2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program Poster Session
2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program Poster Session
2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program Poster Session
About the English Language Institute
The English Language Institute, a department within the College of Professional Studies, at Syracuse University is a pre-degree program that prepares international students to succeed in their undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Established in 1979, this immersive year-round program allows international students the opportunity to learn English and culture in the heart of New York state.
Sponsored by the Central New York Humanities Corridor from an award by the Mellon Foundation, the working group aims to bridge the gap between language and the arts by hosting events and collecting and publishing testimonials reflecting on the role of language study within the context of the humanities.
“ELI students come to us with a range of academic interests,” says David Lind, director of International Programs at Syracuse University. “We are extremely grateful to have won this grant, which will allow us to work collaboratively with Hamilton College on sharing stories, from the students themselves, about how language learning can serve as a gateway to exploring the humanities, regardless of one’s academic background.”
The English Language Institute, a department within the College of Professional Studies, at Syracuse University is a pre-degree program that prepares international students to succeed in their undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Established in 1979, this immersive year-round program allows international students the opportunity to learn English and culture in the heart of New York state.
Although Japanese student Kazuma Nagao had never been to the United States, he knew that studying abroad to learn English would help him inch closer to fulfilling his dream of becoming an astronaut. He had no idea, though, that this chance would bring him into contact with NASA astronauts and a community that supported his dream.
Nagao, an aerospace engineering major concentrating in fluid dynamics at Tokai University, seized the opportunity to study overseas at the English Language Institute (ELI) at Syracuse University. The 30-year partnership allows students in Japan to take part in the rigorous language learning program, studying English textually and orally five days a week. Nagao credits the ELI with giving him not only improved English skills, but also strong friendships and a new outlook on his career goals.
In this Q&A with Nagao, learn more about his experience at the ELI, the connections he made, and his favorite moments during his time at Syracuse University.
Kazuma Nagao visits the Kennedy Space Center.
What led to your decision to study English in the U.S. and why at Syracuse University’s English Language Institute in particular?
Since I was a kid, I have [wanted] to live in the United States. Studying abroad in the U.S. has [always] been a dream of mine. Also, I’d like to [get a master’s degree] in aerospace engineering in the United States after the end of my bachelor’s degree, so, I needed academic English and to [be able to] speak English fluently.
I enrolled at Syracuse University’s English Language Institute by applying to the program through Tokai University. Tokai University provides many programs for studying abroad. I wanted to study in the United States for the long term, so I chose Syracuse University because Syracuse is located in New York and the program was for seven months. I could visit NASA relatively easily from Syracuse compared to the West Coast. If I studied abroad in the United States, I had to visit NASA. And I [wanted] to live in New York—it’s just cool to say I lived in New York.
Where did your interest in outer space originate?
I was around 12 years old. I started [to gain an interest] in space because I watched Star Wars movies. But at that time, I was not interested in being an astronaut.
When I was in high school, I had to decide what I wanted to do in the future. I liked science, like math and physics. Being an astronaut is just cool. So, I decided to be an astronaut as a goal. It was a simple reason.
Kazuma Nagao takes a group photo with his classmates.
What was your experience like throughout your time at the ELI?
If I [were] to describe my experience at the ELI in one word, it’s amazing. Of course, there were many hard things, but every time I overcame them. I think this experience made me more confident.
In the beginning, it was hard to adapt to the culture and living in Syracuse. That was my first time living in the United States and even visiting. However, once classes began, I had a fun time. I met many people who all have amazing personalities and [such] kindness. Sometimes I couldn’t solve problems by myself, but my teachers and friends helped me. Teachers helped me even if it was outside of the class time. I was so impressed by all the teachers because they took the time to support each student.
Can you describe what the community was like at the ELI?
The atmosphere at the ELI is friendly and happy.
We had many opportunities to interact with students who were in different class levels, so it’s easy to make friends. All the students are international students, so it was exciting for me to have a conversation with each student.
What did you learn from both your peers and the faculty during your studies?
I learned [about] not only English but also about the culture in the United States and various countries. Also, I learned many important things [that I can use] to live a better life.
My teachers and friends [always] cheered on my dreams. They are truly incredible people. I didn’t have any confidence, and I was shy. I didn’t know how to express my opinion during classes in the United States because the cultures in Japan and the United States are totally different. But I could adapt to the culture through this experience, thanks to my surroundings.
I will never forget all the things that they taught me. Meeting with my classmates, teachers, and friends was a treasure and the most meaningful thing [to me] during those seven months. They gave and taught me a lot of things and changed me in a good way. I can’t thank them enough.
You visited Florida to witness the SpaceX Crew-8 mission launch. Syracuse local, astronaut Jeanette Epps, was one of the four crew members assigned to this launch. What was that like, and how did you get that opportunity?
I didn’t know that one of the astronauts who joined the Crew-8 mission was from Syracuse. When I learned this, I immediately decided to visit to watch the launch. I was in Florida from Friday to Sunday. So, I had to be absent from class. I told my teachers that I must go to watch her launch. And also, luckily, I got to connect with a friend of Jeanette Epps. I couldn’t watch the [actual] launch because it was rescheduled, but I saw the Dragon spacecraft and had dinner with Jeanette Epps’s friend. I had a very fun time in Florida.
Karin Botto and Kazuma Nagao visit the Kennedy Space Center.
What kind of networking opportunities did you get during your time in the United States?
I had several opportunities. The most memorable one was when one of my teachers at the ELI connected me with Jeanette Epps’s friend.
I also got to connect with another NASA astronaut personally. I had a phone call with him. I asked him for advice on how to be an astronaut. I didn’t expect this situation—I’ve never imagined making connections with such incredible people. I didn’t make all of these connections by myself. Many people gave me amazing opportunities. So, I’m really appreciative.
What was your favorite part about studying in Syracuse?
Visiting NASA in Florida and Houston was definitely [one of] my favorite parts but studying English at the ELI every day was [also one of] my favorite parts. At the beginning of studying abroad, I couldn’t communicate with my classmates well. However, my English skills improved gradually. After I noticed my growth, I loved to have conversations with my classmates, teachers, and native people. I never felt bored during classes.
After classes at the ELI, I hung out with my classmates. We cooked traditional food together, drove to feel nature, went shopping, and sometimes just chatted about our future and dreams. Everything that I experienced in Syracuse is my favorite part.
Karin Botto gifts Kazuma Nagao autographs of the NASA flight crew.
What are your career aspirations for the future, and how do you think your education through the ELI will help you achieve them?
My future goal is to become an astronaut. Before I came to Syracuse, I just wanted to be an astronaut for my benefit— to seek out my passion and interests, like wanting to feel how zero gravity is and to see the Earth from space. But, after seven months of studying at the ELI, my reason for achieving my goal has changed.
I want to be someone who can help others and make a good impact on the world. I’ve lived for just 20 years. In my life, many people have helped me, but I couldn’t do anything for them. So, I want to be an astronaut and dedicate my life to helping people and making a positive impact. To do things for the world, for all humanity, and even for the universe— this is my slogan.
We have citizenship and a home country, but we are all from Earth. We are one. One astronaut said there are no borders seen from space. I love this saying.
I like to work hard to achieve my goal, but of course, sometimes I don’t want to. Then, every time I [don’t want to], I remind myself of the friends, teachers and people I met in Syracuse. I hope to see them again in Florida as an astronaut. To make this dream come true, I must push myself a little bit more.
These seven months were so meaningful to me. Through this experience, I know why I want to be an astronaut.
About the English Language Institute
The English Language Institute, a department within the College of Professional Studies, at Syracuse University is a pre-degree program that prepares international students to succeed in their undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Established in 1979, this immersive year-round program allows international students the opportunity to learn English and culture in the heart of New York state.
In May, Syracuse University and Interlearn, Inc. warmly welcomed the third cohort of International Year One Program (iY-1) students with a two-day orientation. Filled with engaging activities, information sessions, and a meet-and-greet with Otto, the orientation provided a great opportunity for everyone to connect and strengthen a strong community within the cohort.
Languages act as a guide for communicating our goals and dreams. It’s how we make sense of the world and connect with the communities around us. Become fluent in a variety of languages, and it’s like collecting keys that unlock a plethora of doors to infinite opportunities.
Ludmilla Evelin at the College of Law 2023 commencement ceremony.
Ludmilla Evelin, an English for Lawyers alumna, came to the United States to unlock those doors and expand her law career by studying at Syracuse University. Ludmilla, a public prosecutor from Brazil, is responsible for prosecuting homicide cases, inspecting police department work, and helping survivors, victims of the crime, and the victim’s families overcome challenging moments after the crime.
“Brazilian prosecutors play a vital role in protecting essential rights within the democratic system, such as safety, the welfare of vulnerable groups, education, and the environment, in addition to criminal trials,” Ludmilla says.
In order to better assist her community and reach additional communities, Ludmilla knew she needed to expand her research about law and is now an LL.M. candidate at Syracuse University’s College of Law.
“There are several reasons that justified my decision to study in the United States,” Ludmilla says. “First, traveling is a powerful way to broaden our life view. The United States offers an incredible diversity of cultures and lifestyles. Second, studying abroad helps us gain new perspectives on the profession and opens up new opportunities. In my case, as a legal professional, I learned a new legal system and new tools to answer legal issues. I can apply this knowledge to my job, sharing what I’ve learned with my colleagues and team.”
English for Lawyers is a summer program designed for non-native speakers of English who intend to earn an LL.M. degree in the United States. The objectives include increasing participants’ ability to understand and discuss common legal matters and improving their research skills.
“The English for Lawyers program provided me with a solid foundation in legal terminology and communication, which facilitated my transition into the LL.M. program at the College of Law,” Ludmilla says.
Expanding Opportunities
The English Language Institute staff and instructors acted as cultural and linguistic guides as Ludmilla journeyed through the program and adjusted to living in the United States. The program not only prepared Ludmilla for her LL.M. program, but the lessons have been transferable as she participates in an internship program at the Onondaga County District Attorney’s office.
“The English for Lawyers program helped me improve my English language skills, enabling me to effectively communicate and work in an English-speaking legal environment, not only during my internship but in several situations of daily life,” Ludmilla says. “By interning at the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office, I could observe and participate in various legal proceedings, mainly at the homicide division. I attended several lectures that were provided to us about legal professions, visited law firms, and learned about the Syracuse Police Department. I could apply what I learned at the Syracuse University College of Law to analyze cases under the supervision of assistant district attorneys.”
Ludmilla Evelin and her colleagues take a picture with President Joe Biden.
From meeting President Joe Biden, being a judge at the Transatlantic Negotiation Competition hosted by Syracuse University and Queen’s University Belfast, to assisting the organizers of the International Law Weekend in New York City hosted by the International Law Association—American Branch, the English for Lawyers program prepared Ludmilla for a variety of unique opportunities that she didn’t expect to experience. Moreover, Ludmilla was given the honor of representing the international LL.M. students and was selected to give a speech at the College of Law’s 2023 commencement ceremony.
“Being selected to give a speech at the College of Law 2023 commencement ceremony was a great honor and challenge. I wanted to address a message of gratitude, the significance of overcoming language and cultural barriers, and the importance of representing international students. It was one of the best and most unforgettable experiences that I had in the United States,” Ludmilla says.
Ludmilla Evelin presents her speech at the College of Law 2023 commencement ceremony.
Staying Involved
As Ludmilla continues to study in the United States, she’s taken this opportunity to engage with the local community and is giving back to those who have been so welcoming to her.
“My credential as a Syracuse University student allows me to volunteer at the Family Court/Volunteer Lawyer Project, lecture about the American legal system, the role of the District Attorney in society, and legal professions for kids and teenage immigrants at the Rise Project, occupy the pro bono and community service chair at the Student Bar Association at the College of Law, and be a student ambassador at the International Law Society—American Branch. These activities make me feel like I belong in my community and this country,” Ludmilla says.
Additionally, Ludmilla is broadening her educational palate and pursuing a variety of courses outside of the realm of law to diversify her expertise and apply it to her practices.
“Attending Syracuse University has been filled with memorable experiences, such as studying in diverse environments, attending classes at different schools like the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, and evolving personally and professionally through various activities,” Ludmilla says.
Advancing Career Goals
English for Lawyers and the College of Law have not only prepared Ludmilla with the knowledge and skills she needs to best represent her clients and society—in her case as a prosecutor—but her time at Syracuse University has also provided her with the confidence to succeed and advance in her career.
“During my journey in the United States, I’ve learned about alternative dispute resolution to develop the necessary skills to negotiate and mediate. These skills will allow me to handle pleadings when it’s possible,” Ludmilla says. “Furthermore, in the criminal area, I’ve researched victim’s rights. In Brazil, public prosecutors have paid more attention to this topic to guarantee the victims’ protection. The American legal system has been working on this for several years. The American experience helps me understand the better path to achieve the best results in this area.”
Ludmilla Evelin and her colleagues at the 2022 American Society of International Law gala.
As Ludmilla considers the next steps in her career, she reflects on how her experience at Syracuse University has prepared her to follow her dreams. For Ludmilla, the human experience drives her career, and she says learning English has allowed her to create a deeper connection with a wider population.
“Over the next five years, I plan to apply the knowledge and experiences gained in the United States to my work in Brazil,” Ludmilla says. “I aspire to collaborate with international organizations and use my academic and professional background to make a positive impact, not only in my country but also in other countries.”
About the English Language Institute
The English Language Institute, a department within the College of Professional Studies, at Syracuse University is a pre-degree program that prepares international students to succeed in their undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Established in 1979, this immersive year-round program allows international students the opportunity to learn English and culture in the heart of New York state.
