Joy D

Language Institute and Level: SASLI/Elementary Urdu

Why do you choose to study at WISLI? What motivated you to choose our program?

I chose to study at WISLI because I had previously studied Hindi and felt that, in order to fully understand the literary and political landscape of northern India, I needed to understand Urdu as well. I chose WISLI because they are one of the few programs in the world that offer intensive language study for Urdu

How has learning a less commonly taught language enriched your personal and professional life? 

People are always surprised when I tell them I know Hindi and Urdu. I think knowing the two languages has opened up a whole world of personal and professional connections that I wouldn’t have had otherwise.

What about WISLI/UW-Madison stands out to you? 

WISLI really is one of the few places in the world where an aspiring student can go to study South Asian languages. Madison, in addition, is lovely during the summertime, which helps make for a convivial atmosphere.

How do you plan to apply proficiency of your target language and cultural skills to your personal/professional journey? 

On the personal side, part of my family is Indian, so learning Hindi/Urdu is a fun way to connect with them. On the professional side, I am interested in pursuing a career related to foreign affairs, so having a working knowledge of two of the most spoken languages in the world is pretty handy.

What have been some of the highlights of your program? What events have you particularly enjoyed? 

Playing cricket was a highlight (especially because my team won!) as were the study break samosas.

What role did the WISLI Tuition Scholarship award play when you were making decisions? How would you encourage other students who might be interested in the scholarship to apply? 

I would not have been able to attend WISLI had I not had the WISLI Fellowship. I would encourage applicants to stress the necessity of the scholarship, as well as the effect learning their target language will have on their life.

What advice would you give to students who want to study the same language as you? 

Urdu is a beautiful language and, aside from the initial difficulty of learning the script, relatively straightforward. Relish your study of the language: ask your professor about ghazals, qawwalis, nazms, and the rich literary tradition of the language. Studying the poetry of masters like Ghalib and Bashir Badr were two highlights of WISLI, for me.

What is your favorite expression in the language you studied this summer?

ہم بھی دریا ہیں ہمیں اپنا ہنر معلوم ہے

جس طرف بھی چل پڑیں گے راستہ ہو جائے گا

Roughly translated, it means:

I too am a river, I know my talent.

Wherever I must go, there a way will appear.