Anna Cecile Pepper

Sophomore Anna Cecile Pepper has received a Critical Language Scholarship to study at Noor Majan Training Institute in Ibri, Oman. She will be immersed in local culture, stay with a host family and focus on mastery of Arabic.

The Critical Language Scholarship is an overseas language and cultural immersion program for U.S. undergraduate and graduate students. The fully-funded scholarship aims to expand the number of U.S. residents proficient in critical languages while building relationships between people in the United States and other countries.

“Receiving this award is such an honor. Getting the chance to do Arabic immersion in Oman for two months will open so many doors in my future as I pursue my dreams of working in the Louisville Arab community today and working in national security in the future. I can’t wait to explore the culture, history, language, and politics of the Middle East this summer.”

Collegiate experience

• Areas of study:
  Political science and history from College of Arts and Sciences. Expects to graduate May, 2018.
• Other recognition and honors:
  McConnell Scholar

Inspired By

“Professor Khaldoun Almousily was instrumental in encouraging me to apply to the program and helping me with my application. He incites passion for Arabic and the Middle East in all of his students and is an incredible and patient instructor.  Dr. Gary Gregg is the director of the McConnell Center and has had a major role in my life as a teacher, advisor, and friend. My parents helped me by simply believing in me and always allowing me to pursue my dreams.”

Hometown information

• Hometown:
  Elizabethtown, Ky
• High school:
  2014 graduate of Elizabethtown High School

• Parents:
  Lee Ann and Daryl Pepper, Elizabethtown, Ky.