May, 2008

Orly,

I have not yet completed my 10th GDL session with Noga, but even so, I wanted to contact you to tell you how pleased I am with the Ulpan-Or program and your wonderful instructors.

As Danny had told you, I was studying for an exam for Hebrew Union College’s cantorial program, I did not have alot of time to prepare, and my potential for spending this coming year in Israel depended on my passing.

I treated my studies like a full-time job, for the 2+ weeks that we were working together, listening to your CDs and working on the exercises in the book.

Danny was so knowledgeable in spelling out the differences in the binyanim, both over the phone, as well as supporting examples that he would type out. In terms of educational theory, the ‘curriculum’ truly used all the different media, the dialogues, songs, examples, writing homework, listening to different voices, etc… I now have a huge grasp on the binyanim structures-and subsequently can see how much I have learned.

Noga–my Olympic ‘future tense’ teacher. In 5 minutes she simplified for me what I had been trying to demystify for weeks of self study. Noga is equally as patient, supportive, and quick with a laugh at my efforts, and so very creative in finding ways to strengthen the areas in which I need more practice…prepositions!

Danny and Noga have both been extremely flexible and generous with their time with me. Which is why I couldn’t wait until next week to tell you how incredibly happy I am. I took my exam yesterday, conjugated my heart out, and feel like I have improved enormously. I was excited and confident to take it, and am eager to see my results–I am certain I passed.

With sincerest thanks,

Alicia Stillman