Michael Bashta

As a Critical Language Scholarship awardee Michael will be studying Russian language through the American University of Central Asia (AUCA) in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic during the summer of 2021. “I pursued this award to advance my Russian-speaking skills, particularly in an immersive environment,” says Michael. His long-term career goals include contributing to the science and engineering world, and he hopes this award will give him the tools needed to advance American interests abroad, especially in technology and cybersecurity.  Read Michael's blog about his experience.

The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) program provides exceptional undergraduate students from universities in the United States with the opportunity to learn languages essential to America’s engagement with the world. With an acceptance rate of less than 10%, the Critical Language Scholarship is one of the most competitive scholarships in the U.S. and the most prestigious language program for U.S. citizens.

The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program is part of a U.S. government effort to expand dramatically increase the number of Americans studying and mastering critical foreign languages. RIT students interested in applying for the Critical Language Scholarship should contact Jenny Sullivan (jenny.sullivan@rit.edu), Director of Education Abroad & International Fellowships.