The Transformative Impact of Language Immersion and Fostering Connections: Kripa Bhagat’s Journey

In this captivating episode of "Yale College Voices," host, Darice Corey, is joined by Kripa Bhagat, Senior Associate Director, Richard U. Light Fellowship, Office of Fellowships. Kripa is an enthusiastic advocate for language immersion and cross-cultural interaction who shares her journey from a first-time language learner to an expert in global education programs. She begins by recounting her surprising yet transformative experiences in a day camp immersion program where participants communicated exclusively in Chinese—a language she initially did not speak. Her dedication led her from this challenging start to becoming the first student from her high school to formally study Chinese. Listeners will enjoy Kripa’s engaging stories about organizing and participating in cultural activities ranging from calligraphy to talent shows, all designed to deepen the linguistic and cultural immersion for students. She also discusses her international experiences, including her educational pursuits in China under the Startalk program and later, her professional roles in Taiwan. These anecdotes highlight the challenges of adapting to new cultures, the unexpected moments of connection, and the invaluable support of peers and mentors during her journey abroad. This episode will captivate listeners with Kripa's compelling narratives and her enlightening perspectives on celebrating cultural differences, fostering open-mindedness, and the remarkable individual and communal advantages of worldwide learning. The vibrant discussion delves into the life-changing effects of language acquisition and intercultural encounters, whether experienced overseas or within the academic realm of Yale. Podcast Host: Darice Corey | Senior Director of Web and IT Planning | Yale College Dean’s Office DEIB Advisory Committee Co-Chair Podcast Guest: Kripa Bhagat| Senior Associate Director, Richard U. Light Fellowship Producer: Ryan McEvoy | Yale Broadcast Studio Social Media Team and Content Creators: Lisa Dong ’24, Khulan Erdenedalai ’25, Will Gonzalez ’26, Corine Huang ’26, Esther Donald Mwakisambwe ’25, Marcos Membreno ’27, Ava Seymour ’27, Kai Zhang ’26