World Languages Day

Modern & Classical Languages

World Languages Day (WLD) is Wyoming’s state championship of foreign language study. We believe high school students should be given opportunities to excel in their talents, be it football, cheerleading, marching band, or world language learning. World Languages Day not only provides this opportunity for friendly competition, but it shows off the University of Wyoming campus, allows students to learn from experts from around the world, and leaves a lasting impression of friendship and global understanding. 

The main event is a poetry and drama contest, in which the students compete in a number of categories. There are also booths and activities to generate excitement about world languages and other fields of international study. A resource fair reveals opportunities available at UW. Last year, UW hosted 249 visiting secondary students and 25 teachers from across the state. In addition, the event gave 34 UW student volunteers a chance to learn about the efforts involved in planning such a large event. Assisting them were 17 dedicated UW faculty volunteers representing four departments: Modern and Classical Languages, American Indian Studies, International Studies, Global and Area Studies, and Study Abroad. Competitions were held in five languages: Chinese, ESL, French, German, and Spanish. Language workshops included coverage of 12 languages: Arabic, Arapaho, Chinese, French, German, Haitian Creole, Hebrew, Latin, Russian, and Spanish.

Besides the language-focused events, students have a chance to get a taste of UW campus life. Our World Languages Day Internship students welcome guests with a guided tour of campus followed by dinner at the Washakie Dining Hall, a Planetarium show and rotating entertainment by international campus clubs. During these activities, visiting students form bonds with others from around the state.

World Languages Day 2018 will be held March 2-3, 2017. The theme this year is Traditions. WLD is a big event, and it costs about $13,000 to host. We do have a registration fee for students of $20, but this does not cover the entire cost of the event. The cost is closer to $45 each. A gift of $25 will cover the additional cost for one student. Please consider this tax-deductible contribution today.

Consider making a donation today -- read this donor letter.