Former Weston University student Karina Torres Figueroa receives U.S. State Department scholarship to study Russian abroad

Weston, Florida – Karina Torres Figueroa, a recent graduate of Cypress Bay High School and member of the Weston University Class of 2024, is about to take her passion for languages and international studies across the globe. This summer, she will travel to Latvia after earning a highly competitive scholarship through the U.S. State Department’s National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y).

Karina is one of only 440 students selected nationwide from thousands of applicants to participate in the NSLI-Y program, which aims to build critical language skills among American youth. The program, which was established in 2006, offers students the opportunity to study less commonly taught languages in immersive settings around the world.

While in Latvia, Karina will study Russian intensively, live with a local host family, and become immersed in the country’s language and culture. As part of the experience, she will also serve as a citizen ambassador, representing American culture abroad.

Read also: Broward County reports a May 2025 unemployment rate of 3.3 percent which remains below both the Florida and U.S. averages

“Every moment I’ve spent preparing for this program has only increased my excitement to learn and connect with people from a completely different part of the world,” Karina said before her departure. “I’m looking forward to gaining new perspectives and growing personally and academically.”

This isn’t Karina’s first step into the world of civic and international engagement. During high school, she was an active participant in the Weston University program as a junior. Weston University offers high school students hands-on learning opportunities in city government and public service. The experience sparked a deeper interest in global issues and diplomacy for Karina.

She also made her mark at Cypress Bay High School, where she founded and served as president of the Geography Club. In addition, she held the role of Co-President for the school’s Model United Nations team, where she earned seven awards at major conferences for her outstanding performance in debate and diplomacy simulations.

In the fall, Karina will begin her undergraduate studies at the University of Florida. She plans to major in geography and minor in East-Central European studies. Her academic interests align closely with her long-term goals.

“I hope to become a U.S. Diplomat one day,” she said. “I’m also interested in using geographic information systems, or GIS, to support global efforts related to climate change, humanitarian aid, and the fair distribution of resources. I think there’s great potential to combine geography and international relations to address today’s most urgent global issues.”

The NSLI-Y program has a strong track record of producing future leaders in national security, diplomacy, and global affairs. Many alumni go on to pursue careers in government, education, and international service. Participants often credit the program for improving their cross-cultural communication skills, deepening their global awareness, and helping shape their career goals.

Read also: The Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Imagination Series brings unforgettable live performances for families to the Broward Center and The Parker

NSLI-Y is funded by the U.S. State Department and managed by the American Councils for International Education, in partnership with organizations like AFS-USA, Amideast, iEARN USA, Stony Brook University, and the University of Delaware.

Applications for the program open each fall and are available at www.nsliforyouth.org. The scholarship covers travel, language instruction, room and board, and other essential program costs.

“Karina embodies the nature of the Weston University program. We wish her much success as she continues on her journey in higher education, and ultimately her career,” city officials said in a statement.

For Karina, this summer is more than a trip abroad—it’s a meaningful step forward on the path toward her dream of public service and global impact. As she prepares to depart for Latvia, she carries with her the hopes of her hometown, her school community, and the many young leaders who will follow in her footsteps.