LU event connects students with leadership, international education opportunities

Lamar University's (LU) Center for Rule of Law, Justice, and Emerging Technology hosted "From Southeast Texas to the World" on Oct. 29, bringing together students from various academic disciplines to explore opportunities in public service, professional development and international education. 

The event featured Jasper County Judge Mark Allen, who discussed his journey from growing up on a farm in Southeast Texas to serving as a county judge. Drawing on his personal and professional experiences, Allen emphasized the importance of perseverance, education and community involvement in achieving career goals.

Students also learned about the U.S. Department of State's Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program through a virtual presentation by a representative from American Councils for International Education.

The fully funded program provides eligible undergraduate and graduate students with opportunities to participate in intensive summer language study and cultural immersion abroad. Available languages include Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Portuguese, Russian and Swahili.

Open to eligible U.S. citizens from all academic majors, the scholarship is designed to strengthen foreign language proficiency and cultural understanding while preparing participants for careers in fields such as government, international relations, business and public service.

"Our goal is to connect students with opportunities that extend beyond the classroom and beyond Southeast Texas," Dr. Sanaz Alasti, director of the Center for Rule of Law, Justice, and Emerging Technology said. "Whether they pursue careers in public service, criminal justice, engineering, business, or international affairs, we want them to recognize that their background does not limit their future. Through events like this, our Center brings together local leadership and global opportunities to help students imagine what they can achieve."

The event highlighted opportunities for students to apply their academic experiences in professional and international settings, regardless of their field of study.

The application deadline for the summer 2027 Critical Language Scholarship Program is Nov. 17, 2026, at 8 p.m.

Students interested in applying can learn more through Lamar University's Critical Language Scholarship information page or submit an application at ais.americancouncils.org/cls.