Thayer Grimes, a second-year Political Science major, has been awarded the Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) from the U.S. Department of State — a highly competitive program that places American students in intensive language immersion experiences abroad.
This summer, Grimes will travel to New Taipei City, Taiwan, to study Mandarin Chinese at Tamkang University for eight weeks. Grimes comes to the program with prior language experience, having studied Chinese through a study abroad program during high school, and will be placed at the intermediate or advanced beginner level.
Grimes’ path to CCNY reflects a journey shaped by movement and opportunity. Originally from Utica, NY, Grimes credits a high school study abroad experience — made possible through a sponsor organization — as a formative moment that opened doors to a broader world. At CCNY, Grimes is an active and engaged member of the campus community, currently serving as Co-chair of the Young Democratic Socialists of America.
Looking ahead, Grimes hopes to continue deepening both language skills and organizing work in the years to come.
