UM Summer Language Institute
Chinese
Dates:
Program Dates: June 26 – July 26, 2024
Move in: June 26, 2024
The UM Summer Chinese Language Institute has been preparing students to speak Chinese and appreciate Chinese culture for 15 years, first as the Mississippi StarTalk Chinese program and more recently as the Summer Chinese Language Institute (SCLI). SCLI students develop their conversational and written skills at the same time that they are engaging in cultural encounters. The program emphasizes real-world application, teaching skills such as meeting new acquaintances, booking travel, shopping and ordering food, and studying current issues. Each course is built around a different theme: life as a high school student in China; touring the Silk Road; and exploring Chinese traditions and modernity.
The program attracts academically high-performing students from across the country to study Chinese and receive college credit with the support of UM faculty. If selected, students are placed in beginner, advanced beginner, and intermediate language courses. Tutors work together with faculty to support intensive learning in these college courses.
Students live on the Ole Miss campus throughout the session, participating in a larger community of high school students taking college classes during the summer. Supervision and recreational opportunities are provided by Ole Miss Pre-College staff. Weekends and evenings offer students experiences designed to cultivate new interests and deepen their connections with peers.
What Students are Saying
Former participants have shared their feedback with us. Take a look!
“My Chinese language ability vastly increased, especially my vocabulary and character recognition. Furthermore, I developed friendships with my peers and connections with scholars and experienced people.”
“I got to experience an intensive academic opportunity in the Chinese program where I was able to enjoy every part of it. When I look back, it all plays like a movie in my head: the laughter with my friends, with our mentors, and teachers. I learned so much about time management, self-motivation, and courage.”
“The StarTalk program expanded my horizons not only regarding the Chinese language itself, but also regarding Chinese culture. I hope to travel to China one day and pursue further study.”