Keke Jarschke, a third-year doctoral student in the Equity, Diversity and Language Education program within the College of Education and Human Development, is spending this year in France as part of a prestigious Fulbright grant. She is conducting research at the University of Bordeaux’s Laboratory of Cultures Education Societies (LACES) research lab, where she is studying minority and heritage language education. Her project focuses on how regional language education, such as the use of Occitan in southern France, is shown in the local linguistic landscape.
“I’m looking at how the presence of regional language education is reflected in the environment around me,” stated Jarschke, whose passion for language and culture drives her work. “It’s fascinating to see how a language like Occitan, which has deep historical roots, shapes the community today.”
While in France, Jarschke has also been able to immerse herself in the local culture. She is taking language classes at a local immersion school where she learns Occitan alongside primary school students. “Learning a regional language with children has been such a unique experience,” she noted. “It’s not just about the language; it’s about how language and culture are intertwined.”
In addition to her academic pursuits, Jarschke helped organize an international colloquium on multilingualism and language equity in education. She has also traveled through the regions of Nouvelle Aquitaine and Occitania, where Occitan is widely spoken, observing how local communities use language in daily life.
One unforgettable cultural experience was attending Garburada, a traditional event in Bordeaux where she tasted Garbure, a hearty stew and learned the Rondèu, a traditional Occitan circle dance. “It was such an amazing way to connect with the local community,” she reflected.
Jarschke credits much of her success to her advisor, Eleni Oikonomidoy, Ph.D., professor of multicultural education. When she proposed a dual-degree program between the Â鶹ӳ», and the University of Bordeaux, many were skeptical, but Oikonomidoy offered unwavering support. “Her mentorship has been essential to my success,” Jarschke said. “Dr. Oikonomidoy encouraged me when others doubted, and her guidance has made this opportunity a reality.”
Oikonomidoy shared a note on Jarschke’s advocacy efforts. “In our increasingly interconnected world, we often assume that opportunities for collaboration are abundant. However, it takes a scholar like Keke, who is willing to push boundaries and authentically engage with others in order to build bridges of understanding.”
She continued, “her interest in intersections of language, identity and belonging is at the forefront of global educational research. Receiving a prestigious Fulbright scholarship is a witness to that.”
Oikonomidoy, then reflected on their relationship, “It’s been an immense honor accompanying Keke in this journey, from our first meeting in my office at the Â鶹ӳ» to touring the library at the University of Bordeaux. She continues to impress me with her strong critical and analytical skills. I have no doubt that her year in France will contribute greatly to her development as a scholar, and her comparative work will make a big impact in the field. I can’t wait to proudly witness her ongoing successes in the future.”
Looking ahead, Jarschke hopes to continue working in international education, breaking down barriers to student mobility. “We hear a lot about internationalization and multiculturalism in higher education, but the reality does not always match the conversation. There are still many barriers to student mobility, and I want to see that change,” she explained.
For anyone considering applying for a Fulbright grant, she has simple but valuable advice: “Be bold about making international connections and start building relationships early.”
Her year in France is not just about research—it is about deepening her understanding of language, culture and education and working toward her goal of making global education more accessible for all.
