Latest news with #DuolingoEnglishTest
Fashion Value Chain
01-08-2025
- Sport
- Fashion Value Chain
Neeraj Chopra Gets Candid About His Journey in an Exclusive Conversation with Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test (DET), a global leader in digital English proficiency assessment, hosted a fireside chat featuring Olympic and World Champion Neeraj Chopra. In a heartfelt conversation with select DET test takers, Neeraj opened up like never before, sharing his most honest and personal thoughts yet on his journey of overcoming challenges and representing India on a global stage. He offered students candid advice and encouragement as they prepare to step out of their own comfort zones and build a life overseas. Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra in conversation with Duolingo English Test takers Shalini, Shreyas, and Jesai during an exclusive fireside chat The conversation brought together three DET test takers, Shalini, Shreyas, and Jesai who, much like Neeraj, are embarking on a journey that demands courage, resilience and the ability to adapt to new environments. Their dialogue explored this shared experience, highlighting how the mindset needed for sporting success is not too different from what students need to succeed abroad. Watch the conversation here: Success comes when you keep showing up 'When you leave home for the first time, it's not easy. You miss your family and your routine. But when you stay focused on your dream, it gets easier,' said Neeraj. 'You need to have a strong mindset. Just keep showing up and giving your best, that's how success comes.' Sharing a personal story from early in his career, Neeraj recalled the time he broke his wrist during training. 'I had just started my journey and had to wear a plaster for 40 days. I thought my career was over,' he said. But rather than give up, he stayed focused on his dream of representing India. Once recovered, he trained three to four times a day, lost the 10-12 kg gained during recovery, and within just six weeks, he won a national medal. 'It's all about strength, resilience and a strong mindset,' he added. Lessons from Life Abroad Talking about his experiences training overseas, Neeraj shared candidly, 'The biggest challenge for Indians abroad is food.' His advice to students 'Learn basic cooking before moving out. It's important to be independent. Learn to cook, do your chores, and make your own decisions. You might make a few mistakes but that's how you learn.' He also emphasized the value of self-reliance: 'Living away from home teaches you a lot. At home, you often rely on your family. But stepping out helps you understand life and yourself better,' and urges students to be patient, take small steps and keep learning. Breaking Language Barriers Language was another challenge discussed by students. Neeraj shared his own journey with English, explaining how he learned vocabulary from his coaches and even practiced using the Duolingo app. 'It felt good when Duolingo said I got 100 percent. I wasn't a top-scoring student in school, so this kind of learning made me feel proud' he said. 'I've had coaches from Australia, Germany, and now the Czech Republic. So, I've picked up a few words from each language. I try to learn a few and greet people in their own language.' The fireside chat was part of an ongoing collaboration between the Duolingo English Test and Neeraj Chopra, designed to inspire young Indians to pursue their global education dreams with confidence. Shalini, Shreyas, and Jesai are also the first DETermined Ambassadors, who have aced the test and are now part of an exclusive community of DET Takers. They will participate in a programme to gain access to exclusive opportunities, tools and resources, as they help build a community of DET takers who have taken the test to fly to their dream destinations around the world. The Duolingo English Test (DET) continues to democratise access to global education, with over 5,900 institutions worldwide, including top universities in the USA and Canada accepting it. The test is fully online, costs only USD $70 (approx. Rs. 6,000) and delivers results within 48 hours, making it one of the most accessible and student-friendly English proficiency tests today. Designed with the test taker in mind, DET integrates advanced AI and the latest assessment science to deliver accurate, secure and convenient testing. About Duolingo English Test The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a convenient, fast and affordable English proficiency test, designed with the test taker in mind. By integrating the latest assessment science and AI, the test empowers anyone to certify their English when and where they're at their best. A combination of rigorous security protocols, AI, and remote proctoring ensures the integrity of the test. DET test scores are accepted by over 5900 institutions worldwide, including Columbia, University of Toronto, University of Warwick and Yale.
India Today
30-07-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
'I Googled It': How Neeraj Chopra taught himself English
Before he was launching javelins into Olympic history, Neeraj Chopra was quietly launching something else his own crash course in English, armed with nothing but curiosity, a phone app, and a whole lot of a world where athletes often have teams of tutors and translators, Neeraj took the DIY route. No grammar classes, no formal lessons—just keen ears, helpful coaches, and the trusty Duolingo owl on his phone. And while the gold medals may shine brightest, his journey to learning English is its own tale of grit, humility, and some laugh-out-loud language an exclusive fireside chat with Duolingo English Test takers, Olympic and World Champion Neeraj Chopra got candid—not about training techniques or medal moments, but about his relationship with the English language. Turns out, Neeraj didn't have access to fancy tutors or expensive language classes. Instead, he soaked up English from his coaches, his teammates, and—wait for it—his phone. 'I started learning by listening to my coaches speak. Then, I used Duolingo whenever I had time,' he English-learning journey wasn't just about communication—it was about confidence. 'At first, I was hesitant. But I kept practicing. That's all you need—consistency and belief,' he added. MULTILINGUAL MISHAPS AND GLOBAL GREETINGSWorking with international coaches exposed Neeraj to a medley of languages, from German to Swedish. He even picked up phrases to connect better with them. But not every attempt went smoothly.'I once greeted someone in German with full confidence,' he laughed. 'But when they replied fluently, I panicked and switched back to English immediately!'The story had everyone in splits—and made it clear: even world champions stumble, and that's totally FOR DREAMERS: 'MAKE PEOPLE BELIEVE IN YOUR DREAM'Neeraj wasn't just sharing language tips. He had a powerful message for Indian students dreaming of studying abroad.'I come from a small village,' he said. 'My dream was to represent India. And I worked for it—even when it seemed far. If you have a dream, don't just keep it locked in your mind. Speak it. Believe it. And make the people around you believe in it too.'He stressed that success doesn't happen overnight, but persistence, patience, and support go a long WISDOM, ONE WORD AT A TIMENeeraj Chopra's story is a reminder that language shouldn't be a barrier—it should be a bridge. Whether it's throwing a javelin 87 meters or saying your first full sentence in English, it all starts with one thing: Neeraj put it, 'Big dreams need small, everyday effort. Whether it's in sports, language, or life—just don't stop trying.'- EndsMust Watch
Indian Express
25-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Neeraj Chopra wears chef's hat: ‘Favourite thing to cook is namkeen chawal, you can call it veg biryani…'
Say hello to Chef Chopra. Neeraj Chopra was only 13 years old when he left home to pursue his javelin dream. Within years, he was spending months in a country far away. And as he began to live the monk-ish life of an athlete, Neeraj also took a slice of home with him — by learning some of his favourite recipes. As the years passed, he slowly began to perfect the art of cooking. And it started with his favourite dish — the Haryanvi speciality, namkeen chawal, somewhat similar to a vegetarian biryani. Speaking at a fireside chat with Duolingo English Test takers, the two-time Olympic and World Championship medallist spoke about the life skills he developed after moving away from home, starting with learning how to cook. 'Cooking is a basic need, especially for athletes who need to eat right. So I started with Namkeen Chawal and slowly learned how to make dal, vegetables, rice and roti,' Neeraj said. In the early years, Neeraj said it was tough to 'train twice a day and cook three times'. Gradually, he found the right balance. 'As an athlete, our relationship with diet is quite deep. We have to take care of our nutrition and cook as well. So I learnt to cook different things from the beginning. Like dal, roti, rice… But my favourite thing to cook is something that we in Haryana call 'Namkeen Chawal'. You can call it veg biryani. And also raita and salad to accompany it. I used to cook it really well and I pour desi ghee on it. It tasted amazing. That was the first thing I learnt to cook,' Neeraj said. He added: 'After that, I learnt many other things. It was quite tough in the beginning because I used to train twice a day and cook three times a day. The journey is tough but if you learn to manage everything, then things do get done.' Neeraj was addressing a group of students and he advised them to stay patient. 'When you learn to manage on your own, you are ready for bigger challenges,' he said, encouraging students to take pride in becoming independent.'
Fashion Value Chain
11-06-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Trailblazing Women in STEM and Education Experts Lead Jury for USD 30,000 DETermined Scholarship by Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test (DET), has announced a six-member jury of accomplished leaders across science, technology, education and entrepreneurship for the DETermined Scholarship: a $30,000 grant aimed at supporting Indian women pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate STEM degrees in the United States at universities that accept the Duolingo English Test (DET). Applications are open until 30th June, and interested candidates can access the application portal at Manthan and complete their submissions online. The scholarship is designed to identify women who combine academic excellence with leadership and a commitment to building India's innovation future. The jury reflects that mission, bringing together diverse and distinguished perspectives to select a scholar who will thrive academically and contribute to India's innovation story. Six-member jury for the DETermined Scholarship, including (L-R, top to bottom): Dr. Sapna Poti, Kirthiga Reddy, Anuradha Acharya, Arnav Kumar, Jennifer Dewar, Carrie Wang The 2025 DETermined Scholarship Jury Panel Includes: Dr. Sapna Poti , Director, Strategic Alliances, Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser Kirthiga Reddy , CEO, Verix and Former Managing Director of Facebook in India and South Asia Anuradha Acharya , CEO, Mapmygenome Arnav Kumar , Co-founder, Leap Carrie Wang , Senior Director, Head of Growth, Duolingo English Test Jennifer Dewar, Senior Director of Strategic Engagement, Duolingo English Test At the heart of the panel are two pioneering women who serve as powerful role models for Indian women in STEM. Kirthiga Reddy is a leader who studied in the U.S. and brings a personal perspective rooted in identifying foundational strengths and establishing longer-term vision. She is also deeply involved with the education community through her position on the board of trustees at Syracuse University and as a former chair of the Stanford Business School Management Board. Anuradha Acharya founded Mapmygenome, a leading genomics company, to highlight the impact of global access to build, scale and drive innovation back in India. Her leadership is also pivotal in inspiring innovation amongst future generations of female achievers in India. Dr. Sapna Poti, representing the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India and a strong advocate for gender diversity in STEM, brings to the panel a focus on selecting candidates who can drive meaningful technological change in India. Reflecting on her role, she said, 'Supporting talented women in science and technology through scholarships and mentorship is essential to advancing India's innovation landscape. This jury represents the power of women breaking barriers in STEM, inspiring the next generation.' Arnav Kumar, Co-founder of Leap and an expert in guiding Indian students through global education pathways, brings a deep understanding of the challenges students face when pursuing studies abroad. 'Beyond financial aid, what Indian students need is guidance and a pathway to global exposure that builds lasting impact. The DETermined Scholarship not only funds dreams but also connects the recipient with a network and vision that help them lead change when they return. I aim to help select someone with the determination and drive to make the most of this opportunity in the longer term.' Also on the panel are Carrie Wang and Jennifer Dewar from the Duolingo English Test. Their deep experience in global education and student engagement further strengthens the scholarship's focus on access, equity and future-ready learning. Together, the panel brings a holistic lens to identifying talent, balancing academic merit with leadership, vision and a purpose-driven mindset. The DETermined Scholarship isn't just about access; it's about investing in a generation of Indian women who will shape the future of STEM in India and on the world stage. About Duolingo English Test The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a convenient, fast and affordable English proficiency test, designed with the test taker in mind. By integrating the latest assessment science and AI, the test empowers anyone to certify their English when and where they're at their best. A combination of rigorous security protocols, AI, and remote proctoring ensures the integrity of the test. DET test scores are accepted by over 5800 institutions worldwide, including Columbia, University of Toronto, University of Warwick and Yale.
Fashion Value Chain
11-06-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Trailblazing Women in STEM and Education Experts Lead Jury for USD 30,0000 DETermined Scholarship by Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test (DET), has announced a six-member jury of accomplished leaders across science, technology, education and entrepreneurship for the DETermined Scholarship: a $30,000 grant aimed at supporting Indian women pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate STEM degrees in the United States at universities that accept the Duolingo English Test (DET). Applications are open until 30th June, and interested candidates can access the application portal at Manthan and complete their submissions online. The scholarship is designed to identify women who combine academic excellence with leadership and a commitment to building India's innovation future. The jury reflects that mission, bringing together diverse and distinguished perspectives to select a scholar who will thrive academically and contribute to India's innovation story. Six-member jury for the DETermined Scholarship, including (L-R, top to bottom): Dr. Sapna Poti, Kirthiga Reddy, Anuradha Acharya, Arnav Kumar, Jennifer Dewar, Carrie Wang The 2025 DETermined Scholarship Jury Panel Includes: Dr. Sapna Poti , Director, Strategic Alliances, Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser Kirthiga Reddy , CEO, Verix and Former Managing Director of Facebook in India and South Asia Anuradha Acharya , CEO, Mapmygenome Arnav Kumar , Co-founder, Leap Carrie Wang , Senior Director, Head of Growth, Duolingo English Test Jennifer Dewar, Senior Director of Strategic Engagement, Duolingo English Test At the heart of the panel are two pioneering women who serve as powerful role models for Indian women in STEM. Kirthiga Reddy is a leader who studied in the U.S. and brings a personal perspective rooted in identifying foundational strengths and establishing longer-term vision. She is also deeply involved with the education community through her position on the board of trustees at Syracuse University and as a former chair of the Stanford Business School Management Board. Anuradha Acharya founded Mapmygenome, a leading genomics company, to highlight the impact of global access to build, scale and drive innovation back in India. Her leadership is also pivotal in inspiring innovation amongst future generations of female achievers in India. Dr. Sapna Poti, representing the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India and a strong advocate for gender diversity in STEM, brings to the panel a focus on selecting candidates who can drive meaningful technological change in India. Reflecting on her role, she said, 'Supporting talented women in science and technology through scholarships and mentorship is essential to advancing India's innovation landscape. This jury represents the power of women breaking barriers in STEM, inspiring the next generation.' Arnav Kumar, Co-founder of Leap and an expert in guiding Indian students through global education pathways, brings a deep understanding of the challenges students face when pursuing studies abroad. 'Beyond financial aid, what Indian students need is guidance and a pathway to global exposure that builds lasting impact. The DETermined Scholarship not only funds dreams but also connects the recipient with a network and vision that help them lead change when they return. I aim to help select someone with the determination and drive to make the most of this opportunity in the longer term.' Also on the panel are Carrie Wang and Jennifer Dewar from the Duolingo English Test. Their deep experience in global education and student engagement further strengthens the scholarship's focus on access, equity and future-ready learning. Together, the panel brings a holistic lens to identifying talent, balancing academic merit with leadership, vision and a purpose-driven mindset. The DETermined Scholarship isn't just about access; it's about investing in a generation of Indian women who will shape the future of STEM in India and on the world stage. About Duolingo English Test The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a convenient, fast and affordable English proficiency test, designed with the test taker in mind. By integrating the latest assessment science and AI, the test empowers anyone to certify their English when and where they're at their best. A combination of rigorous security protocols, AI, and remote proctoring ensures the integrity of the test. DET test scores are accepted by over 5800 institutions worldwide, including Columbia, University of Toronto, University of Warwick and Yale.
