This page provides answers to commonly asked questions about our program. To quickly find a specific topic, use the search function (Ctrl or Command + F).

Eligibility and Application

1. Can I apply after the December 9, 2024, deadline?  

While priority is given to applicants who meet the December 9 deadline, we will continue reviewing applications on a rolling basis if space allows.  

2. Am I eligible to apply if I'm currently in 7th or 12th grade?  

While priority will be given to students currently in grades 8 through 11, 7th and 12th grade students may apply.

3. Can I apply if I don’t live in College Station/Bryan or Texas?  

Yes, students from outside the area are welcome to apply. However, you must arrange to be on the TAMU campus during the two-week, in-person summer camp.

4. How will my application be evaluated?  

Applications will be reviewed holistically, considering a range of factors beyond GPA or grade level to ensure a diverse group of motivated students.

Program Participants

5. What is the difference between “program participants” and “program assistants”?  

Program participants are students with limited or no prior Chinese experience who will complete Chinese I by spring 2026. The program includes:

• Spring 2025

  • Virtual (10 hours)

  • Asynchronous and synchronous lessons that prepare students for the Chinese immersion program in the summer

• Summer 2025 

  • 6/2-6/13 (90 hours), weekdays, 9 am to 4 pm.

  • In-person on the TAMU campus

  • An immersive Chinese language program paired with career exploration in cybersecurity, international affairs, and the global economy.

• Summer 2025 - Spring 2026

  • Hybrid (50-60 hours)

  • Continue developing your Chinese language proficiency and finalize a multimedia portfolio and capstone project that showcases your language skills and career insights.

  • Successful program completion will enable students to earn high school credits in Chinese through a credit-by-exam option with fees covered by the program.

Program assistants are students who have achieved at least HSK Level 3 proficiency.  They will volunteer during the summer program in multiple roles, including serving as conversation partners, assisting with lesson preparation, and supporting various instructional activities. These volunteer hours can contribute toward earning hours for the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award.

This position also offers the opportunity to develop essential leadership skills while working alongside faculty and peers. Additionally, volunteers will have the chance to engage in research projects with Texas A&M faculty, gaining insights and connections that will support their academic and career aspirations.

6. Can I still apply as a program participant if I have some Chinese experience?  

It depends on your proficiency level. If you score above 60/100 on the HSK Level 2 Mock Test, you may be overqualified for the participant role but could consider applying for the program assistant position.

7. What is the class size?  

Each class will have 12 students, a lead teacher, and 3-4 teaching assistants, ensuring a student-to-teacher ratio between 1:4 and 1:3. This allows ample opportunities for students to engage in authentic language use and interactive learning.

8. What level of Chinese proficiency is expected upon completion of the program?  

By spring 2026, participants are expected to reach a Novice-Mid to Novice-High level in Chinese. A fully funded credit-by-exam option will be available to earn high school language credit.

9. What aspects of global affairs does this program cover?

International affairs encompasses studying and practicing relationships between nations, focusing on diplomacy, global politics, economic partnerships, cultural exchanges, and addressing international challenges such as conflict, human rights, and environmental concerns. It involves analyzing the ways countries interact, shaping foreign policy, and contributing to global peace and security. This field offers diverse career opportunities, from government service and international organizations to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private sector roles.

At our summer camp, students will gain unique insights from a guest speaker who is a former U.S. ambassador with extensive experience, including serving at the White House on the National Security Council and working as a United Nations war crimes investigator. This opportunity will allow participants to learn firsthand about navigating global issues and pursuing impactful careers in international affairs.

Program Assistants

10. What level of Chinese proficiency is required for program assistants?  

A minimum level of Novice-High or HSK Level 3 proficiency is required to serve as a program assistant. Native proficiency is not required.

11. Will my volunteer work in the program qualify for the President’s Volunteer Service Award?  

Yes!  Volunteer work in our program qualifies for the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

12. How many volunteer hours can I accumulate as a program assistant?  

Program assistants will log approximately 80 hours over the two-week camp. Additional hours are available for those willing to serve as conversation partners post-camp, enabling eligible students to reach the 100-hour threshold for the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

13. Can I apply if I cannot volunteer for the full two-week camp?  

Yes, you may still apply. We will do our best to accommodate your preferences and needs.

This FAQ is designed to clarify the program structure, expectations, and requirements. Please check back periodically for updates or contact us at world.languages@tamu.edu.