Kusum Knapczyk
senior lecturer of Hindi language of asian and middle eastern studies
Dr. Knapczyk earned her Ph.D. in Hindi Literature from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, and is a certified ACTFL Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) and Writing Proficiency Test (WPT) tester for Hindi. An accomplished scholar, educator, and writer, she has published numerous articles and short stories in Hindi and has received several prestigious honors, including the Richard K. Lublin Distinguished Teaching Award, the ACTFL Global Engagement Initiative Award, and the Betsy Alden Award. Her research interests include Hindi literature and language pedagogy. She is the co-author of Reading Hindi: Novice to Intermediate (Routledge) and Reading Urdu: Novice to Intermediate (Routledge). In addition, she is the author of Speak Hindi with Style: Hindi Idioms & Sayings to Spice Up Everyday Conversation, a resource designed to help learners enrich their Hindi communication through authentic idiomatic expressions and cultural insights.
What are you most looking forward to as a Faculty Fellow?
I am looking forward to meeting a diverse group of students who bring unique ideas, perspectives, and energy. I am excited to share experiences, learn about different cultures, and create meaningful connections through conversations, laughter, and community.
What advice would you give to current undergraduates?
Live your life fully. Learn as much as you can in the classroom, but don't forget to build community, explore new interests, and create meaningful experiences outside of it.
What is something you think students should know during their time at Duke?
Duke is a unique community filled with talented, curious, and passionate people. Be curious about people, cultures, and ideas