Maxwell L.
STARTALK Participant
First-year Arabic, Summer 2009
College Student

"It was certainly difficult to begin studying a language this late in life, and a language with a different script at that. There were many positives of studying Arabic through the Center for Language Studies (CLS) in Beloit. The setting for education is wonderful. While there is always a quiet place to study by yourself, should you need one, you'll often find yourself interacting with your teachers and peers -- perfecting accents or debating about important world events.

Everyone needs a little break from intensive studying, and this part of the program was planned out as well. The cultural events that we took part in are a huge part of my fond memories of my summer language studies at Beloit. As a group we were able to practice our new language skills and learn about a different culture, all while having a little fun.

One of my favorite things about the CLS summer program is the superb quality of teaching. Each teacher is prepared to devote his or her entire summer to educating students in their chosen language. By the end of the summer, all the teachers had invested a little bit of themselves in each one of their students -- forming wonderful teacher-student partnerships that assured everyone’s success.

When I arrived at my university in the fall, I was amazed at how well prepared I was for my Arabic class. I believe that this is completely owed to CLS faculty, teachers, and the awesome time I had with new friends.  Honestly, there is no better thing to do with your summer, and no better place to do it than with the CLS summer program at Beloit."