Email Turkish@rumiforum.org for details
See also testimonials from previous students:
http://learnturkishdc.blogspot.com/2011/11/testimonials-from-past-students.html
Showing posts with label maryland. Show all posts
Showing posts with label maryland. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Learn Turkish or else
| While trying to work out the qualities necessary for making a go of life as an expat in Turkey, I’ve already poured cold water on the idea that only those with omnivorous appetites are likely to succeed. Flexibility? | |
| That would have topped my list of the requisite assets even if globalization might be making it less essential than it once was. So what do other expats think? In my straw poll the answer that came over loudest and clearest was “no matter how hard it is, you must get to grips with the Turkish language.” Bodrum resident and British author of the comic expat memoir “Perking the Pansies” Jack Scott was quite clear on the matter. “Learning the lingo, at least conversationally, will really help,” he said, a view echoed by Marc Guillet, a Dutch journalist who lives in İstanbul and runs the enjoy-istanbul.com website. “The absolute number one is, do your best to learn the language. Yes, it is difficult, but whatever your level, when you start to speak some Turkish all doors will be opened for you, because trying to speak Turkish shows Turkish people that you respect their culture and language.” The same reply came in from all over the country. Duke Dillard, the American author of the CaptivatingCappadocia.com blog, recently moved to Çavuşin in Cappadocia with his family after teaching in Ankara. “I have found that the more Turkish an expat knows, the better the experience. When we lived in Ankara finding English speakers was easy, but as we learned more Turkish our relationships deepened and our understanding of what was going on around us, the hidden cues, became more clear.” A long-time Selçuk resident also listed linguistic skills as essential: “The more and more easily one can understand and communicate, the easier and more fulfilling life is likely to be. Being on the outside of what’s going on is stressful. I don’t know how couples with discordant and low levels of [understanding of] each other’s languages ever survive.” Gazipaşa resident Estella Saville, who used to lead wildflower tours of the country, said the same thing: “Above all, learn the language. Turkish people are so kind and generous and will excuse all your foibles, but if you learn a little Turkish it will go a long way.” This won’t come as good news to the many expats for whom learning a new language is akin to taking up brain surgery, or for those who have moved to Turkey later in life when it’s hard to pick up a whole new vocabulary, but there couldn’t be such unanimity of opinion were it not the case that learning Turkish is crucial. Indeed, I would go so far as to say that not knowing the language is the single biggest obstacle to settling in, now that so many of the creature comforts of home are as readily available in Turkey as anywhere else. No one expects you to become word perfect, and most Turks are extremely forgiving of even the most comical linguistic blunders. But flip the situation over and imagine what it must be like for people living in your own home country without being able to speak the language. Just think how much they miss out on. Of course it’s just the same here. | |
Friday, November 25, 2011
Testimonials from Past students
Rumi Forum's Turkish Language classes has become the most popular Turkish course in the Washington DC area. We have students coming from DC, Virginia and Maryland to study with us. Our teachers provide professional teaching of the Turkish language and culture. The popularity of the classes has lead to 4 levels of Turkish being taught.
Kindly review the below testimonials from past students and you will realize why they have chosen us for their Turkish language needs. If you have any queries please email us on turkish@rumiforum.org
SEE LATEST COMMENTS APPENDED AT THE BOTTOM
------------
The class was well-organized and informative Good teacher, good students, and good tea. It's a very flexible and good quality.
------------
The Turkish course is excellent, very useful and I am certainly going to continue taking the next level. I think it's ideal for adults with a busy schedule, and I have still learned a lot and made a lot of progress.
Jonathan
------------
This is a wonderful foundations class that sets the right tone between language learning and cultural learning. I loved the pace and the class participation. I thought it was perfect.
I absolutely want to continue to the next level class. I loved the teacher and how well he explained everything. Always very clear and logical, always time for questions and making sure everyone understands before moving forward. At the same time, keeping up an appropriate pace of progress.
I would totally recommend this class to anyone and think it's a great way to learn a new language and meet other people that have the same goals. Really looking forward to the next session when it begins!
Natalie
------------
My impressions of the Turkish course are positive ones. Not only are we learning Turkish grammatical and conversational skills, but we are also building community. We have Turkish tea with crackers and cookies during every class and often reflect on cultural euphemisms and proverbs in Turkish language and culture. When I step into my Turkish class at Rumi Forum, I do not feel like I'm stepping into a classroom, but rather, into a community of intercultural learning.
I would certainly consider taking a higher level class. If such a class was to be offered.
I liked the non-classroom atmosphere of this course that greatly contributed to the facilitation of learning, both linguistically and culturally. I also especially enjoyed the diverse backgrounds of the students.
I would definitely recommend this course to others! Rumi Forum provides a community of learning that facilitates an exchange of not only the Turkish language, but also of the Turkish culture. As both language and culture are intricately entwined, Rumi Forum is the best place to learn Turkish language and culture in DC.
Kristin
---------------------
My impressions were very positive. I think we learned a lot in a short period of time without it seeming overly burdensome. I found the homework to be quite manageable, but useful in learning the language. I liked having class once per week, as it was easier to fit in to my
Likes: fast pace, focus on speaking early on rather than just memorizing vocabulary words, opportunity to speak in class
I think we learned a lot at a manageable pace for a good price.
Diane
-------------------
Great course
It's once a week, so I can still have a life.
A lot of homework, but doable if once a week.
Great instructor.
Plenty of interaction.
Good groups of people taking these courses.
Rumi Forum creates a nice learning environment.
I would definitely recommend it to others. There are very few places in DC that teach Turkish and this one has more to offer than just Turkish instruction.
Masha
-------------------------
I found the course extremely informative and has provided me so far with good grounding in the Turkish language to continue on in learning the language. The pace of learning is also well balanced. The homework load, going over the homework in class, and the instructor's personable skills allowing students to ask questions about language and culture is an added value.
I like the instructor's pace in teaching. He goes over homework, provides ample time for questions and discussion, and then there is still more time to learn new material each week.
Yes I would recommend this class to others. I learned a lot in only the first introductory course, the class size is perfect which allows for more interaction with the instructor, and the instructor is extremely friendly.
Doha
--------------------------
Very helpful and good paced...The workbook is very helpful, and the instructor maintained a very good pace and atmosphere.
Eden
----------------------
I have learned more through these courses than the month I spent in Turkey taking language courses every day 3 hours a day.
Kenan bey is an outstanding language instructor; his delivery method of the curriculum is very effective! I'd like to continue my Turkish language courses with him.
[Would you recommend to others?] But of course! ...also because it's exceedingly difficult to find good Turkish language instructions anywhere else in town.
Fariba
----------------------
My impressions of the Turkish course was that it was a good introduction to the Turkish language. The cost was very reasonable, compared to average tuition costs in Washington D.C. There was a small class size, which contributed to student learning, and allowing the instructor to spend more one-on-one time with each student. The book we used was well-written, and was more interactive than simple rote memorization. Additionally, our instructor was available by email for additional language practice.
What I liked best about the course was the small class size and informal atmosphere.
I would recommend to others who want a short, introductory class in Turkish, and dislike the rigid formality of a school classroom. In addition to Turkish language, it is a good introduction to Turkish culture as well as a place to meet other DC area residents interested in learning about Turkey.
Charlie
----------------------
Good for adult learners - time, place, and flexibility
Likes: teaching style, teacher sympathy and encouragement, textbook, small class size, dedicated students, and delicious food
Allison
----------------------
I thought the class was really good. I think we learned a lot, and I feel more comfortable with the language. The pace was good, and the instructor did a good job of relating to the students.
I liked the pace and the material we covered. I liked the fact that we only met once per week, and that the location was Metro accessible. I liked the teacher's dedication, and the other students' enthusiasm.
I would recommend this class to others interested in studying Turkish. I think it is a really good value, and a good way to learn a new language.
Diane
----------------------
I really like the class a lot because I felt it was a happy medium between being intensive and low-key. It was a very relaxed atmosphere yet you felt pushed to do the homework and be prepared for every class.
(Taking a further course?)Yes, absolutely 100%. This was a wonderful way to learn and maintain my Turkish. The location and timing of the class was great and more importantly, Kenan Bey, is a wonderful teacher. I am so appreciative of his thought and care and he always made every class special with the cay and food - it was great!
I like very much how Kenan Bey incorporated elements of Turkish pop culture, expressions, songs, TV advertisements. I also like how he gave us homework and then optional extra work if we wanted to do more. He did not overload the homework and ensure we learned the weekly topic, yet gave the opportunity to learn more. I also really appreciated every week how he sent an email out following class to recap what was taught, repeat what we had for homework and give us a heads up as to what we would do the following week.
(Recommend to others?)Definitely for all the reasons that I stated above and because it is a great form in which to learn Turkish. Also, extremely affordable price and wonderful teacher. Thank you!!!
Jenifer
----------------------
The instructor was very professional and helpful. Wish we could have had our discussion groups to speak more. But I very much enjoyed the text book. Very helpful
Eden
----------------------
I thought the course was well designed, flow nicely, and was well taught. Both Serap and Kenan were great instructors.
I am interested in working through higher level Turkish courses
I really liked the content, pace and instruction of the course.
I would definitely recommend this course to others. My understanding and comfort with Turkish language and culture greatly increased because of the course.
Brian
----------------------
I was very happy with the course overall. Compared to other options for learning Turkish in DC outside of a university classroom, the Rumi Forum is a good option. The location is convenient for most people, the cost of the course is not prohibitive, and the quality of the teaching seems to be good.
Brandon
----------------------
Kindly review the below testimonials from past students and you will realize why they have chosen us for their Turkish language needs. If you have any queries please email us on turkish@rumiforum.org
SEE LATEST COMMENTS APPENDED AT THE BOTTOM
------------
The class was well-organized and informative Good teacher, good students, and good tea. It's a very flexible and good quality.
------------
The Turkish course is excellent, very useful and I am certainly going to continue taking the next level. I think it's ideal for adults with a busy schedule, and I have still learned a lot and made a lot of progress.
Jonathan
------------
This is a wonderful foundations class that sets the right tone between language learning and cultural learning. I loved the pace and the class participation. I thought it was perfect.
I absolutely want to continue to the next level class. I loved the teacher and how well he explained everything. Always very clear and logical, always time for questions and making sure everyone understands before moving forward. At the same time, keeping up an appropriate pace of progress.
I would totally recommend this class to anyone and think it's a great way to learn a new language and meet other people that have the same goals. Really looking forward to the next session when it begins!
Natalie
------------
My impressions of the Turkish course are positive ones. Not only are we learning Turkish grammatical and conversational skills, but we are also building community. We have Turkish tea with crackers and cookies during every class and often reflect on cultural euphemisms and proverbs in Turkish language and culture. When I step into my Turkish class at Rumi Forum, I do not feel like I'm stepping into a classroom, but rather, into a community of intercultural learning.
I would certainly consider taking a higher level class. If such a class was to be offered.
I liked the non-classroom atmosphere of this course that greatly contributed to the facilitation of learning, both linguistically and culturally. I also especially enjoyed the diverse backgrounds of the students.
I would definitely recommend this course to others! Rumi Forum provides a community of learning that facilitates an exchange of not only the Turkish language, but also of the Turkish culture. As both language and culture are intricately entwined, Rumi Forum is the best place to learn Turkish language and culture in DC.
Kristin
---------------------
My impressions were very positive. I think we learned a lot in a short period of time without it seeming overly burdensome. I found the homework to be quite manageable, but useful in learning the language. I liked having class once per week, as it was easier to fit in to my
Likes: fast pace, focus on speaking early on rather than just memorizing vocabulary words, opportunity to speak in class
I think we learned a lot at a manageable pace for a good price.
Diane
-------------------
Great course
It's once a week, so I can still have a life.
A lot of homework, but doable if once a week.
Great instructor.
Plenty of interaction.
Good groups of people taking these courses.
Rumi Forum creates a nice learning environment.
I would definitely recommend it to others. There are very few places in DC that teach Turkish and this one has more to offer than just Turkish instruction.
Masha
-------------------------
I found the course extremely informative and has provided me so far with good grounding in the Turkish language to continue on in learning the language. The pace of learning is also well balanced. The homework load, going over the homework in class, and the instructor's personable skills allowing students to ask questions about language and culture is an added value.
I like the instructor's pace in teaching. He goes over homework, provides ample time for questions and discussion, and then there is still more time to learn new material each week.
Yes I would recommend this class to others. I learned a lot in only the first introductory course, the class size is perfect which allows for more interaction with the instructor, and the instructor is extremely friendly.
Doha
--------------------------
Very helpful and good paced...The workbook is very helpful, and the instructor maintained a very good pace and atmosphere.
Eden
----------------------
I have learned more through these courses than the month I spent in Turkey taking language courses every day 3 hours a day.
Kenan bey is an outstanding language instructor; his delivery method of the curriculum is very effective! I'd like to continue my Turkish language courses with him.
[Would you recommend to others?] But of course! ...also because it's exceedingly difficult to find good Turkish language instructions anywhere else in town.
Fariba
----------------------
My impressions of the Turkish course was that it was a good introduction to the Turkish language. The cost was very reasonable, compared to average tuition costs in Washington D.C. There was a small class size, which contributed to student learning, and allowing the instructor to spend more one-on-one time with each student. The book we used was well-written, and was more interactive than simple rote memorization. Additionally, our instructor was available by email for additional language practice.
What I liked best about the course was the small class size and informal atmosphere.
I would recommend to others who want a short, introductory class in Turkish, and dislike the rigid formality of a school classroom. In addition to Turkish language, it is a good introduction to Turkish culture as well as a place to meet other DC area residents interested in learning about Turkey.
Charlie
----------------------
Good for adult learners - time, place, and flexibility
Likes: teaching style, teacher sympathy and encouragement, textbook, small class size, dedicated students, and delicious food
Allison
----------------------
I thought the class was really good. I think we learned a lot, and I feel more comfortable with the language. The pace was good, and the instructor did a good job of relating to the students.
I liked the pace and the material we covered. I liked the fact that we only met once per week, and that the location was Metro accessible. I liked the teacher's dedication, and the other students' enthusiasm.
I would recommend this class to others interested in studying Turkish. I think it is a really good value, and a good way to learn a new language.
Diane
----------------------
I really like the class a lot because I felt it was a happy medium between being intensive and low-key. It was a very relaxed atmosphere yet you felt pushed to do the homework and be prepared for every class.
(Taking a further course?)Yes, absolutely 100%. This was a wonderful way to learn and maintain my Turkish. The location and timing of the class was great and more importantly, Kenan Bey, is a wonderful teacher. I am so appreciative of his thought and care and he always made every class special with the cay and food - it was great!
I like very much how Kenan Bey incorporated elements of Turkish pop culture, expressions, songs, TV advertisements. I also like how he gave us homework and then optional extra work if we wanted to do more. He did not overload the homework and ensure we learned the weekly topic, yet gave the opportunity to learn more. I also really appreciated every week how he sent an email out following class to recap what was taught, repeat what we had for homework and give us a heads up as to what we would do the following week.
(Recommend to others?)Definitely for all the reasons that I stated above and because it is a great form in which to learn Turkish. Also, extremely affordable price and wonderful teacher. Thank you!!!
Jenifer
----------------------
The instructor was very professional and helpful. Wish we could have had our discussion groups to speak more. But I very much enjoyed the text book. Very helpful
Eden
----------------------
I thought the course was well designed, flow nicely, and was well taught. Both Serap and Kenan were great instructors.
I am interested in working through higher level Turkish courses
I really liked the content, pace and instruction of the course.
I would definitely recommend this course to others. My understanding and comfort with Turkish language and culture greatly increased because of the course.
Brian
----------------------
I was very happy with the course overall. Compared to other options for learning Turkish in DC outside of a university classroom, the Rumi Forum is a good option. The location is convenient for most people, the cost of the course is not prohibitive, and the quality of the teaching seems to be good.
Brandon
----------------------
Thursday, July 14, 2011
ENROLMENTS for September 2011 have commenced !
Enrolments for September 2011 have commenced !
Email us at turkish@rumiforum.org for full details, application forms, fees and dates.
Classes will be held at Rumi Forum in Washington DC.
HOSGELDINIZ....
Email us at turkish@rumiforum.org for full details, application forms, fees and dates.
Classes will be held at Rumi Forum in Washington DC.
HOSGELDINIZ....
Saturday, April 30, 2011
It’s time to learn Turkish
Now that you better understand your learning styles, you’ve created a study space that reflects your personal styles, you’ve found the time to study and your goals are set! Well, now you just have to roll up your sleeves and learn Turkish.
Which program is best for you?
Just like there is no perfect teacher, there is no perfect language learning program. Each book, audio program and computer program differs based upon the training, experience and teaching philosophies of the people who created these programs. Some writers have varying degrees of language teaching expertise upon which they draw when creating their programs. These writers made choices about how to present the material based upon their varying levels of understanding about learning styles and language acquisition. In the end, they decided how to present the material, which items they believed were critical to the success of learning language and which items could be omitted. For that reason, the best thing you can do is to look at what’s available and match the material as best as you can to your learning style and needs.
Inexpensive learning tools
I did a search for “learn Turkish” on YouTube and got 7,650 hits. I did a search for “learn Turkish online” on Google and got 891,000 hits. Many free and inexpensive sites offer opportunities to have Turkish learning at your fingertips any time of the day or night! Add those tools to the fact that if you are reading this article, there is a good chance you actually live here in Turkey, where the language spoken is Turkish. There are Turkish “teachers” on the streets and in the stores 24/7. With this knowledge in mind, you can understand how you could be a completely successful Turkish language learner without stepping foot into a traditional classroom.
Finding a Turkish learning partner
You may, however, thrive in a more traditional education setting and will therefore be seeking out a professional teacher or class.
When looking for a Turkish teacher, reflect back on your learning goals. If you want to learn how to read, write and speak Turkish, you may want to consider a teacher trained to work at the college level. If you want to learn the informal, colloquial language to socialize with your Turkish friends, you may want to practice out in the community. If you choose to work with a teacher, you will want to learn about the background, experience and focus of the teacher. How long has the teacher been teaching Turkish? How did this person learn Turkish and who trained this teacher? Reflect on the teacher’s teaching space, use of materials and goals to consider if it matches your own style or supports the way in which you learn. Some people choose more than one Turkish teacher to try out styles that are different from their own to see if a new approach might help them to learn Turkish more efficiently. Ultimately, finding a Turkish teacher is a personal choice. Focus on finding the teacher who supports your goals and personal styles, as well as one who helps you feel energized and excited about learning Turkish.
There are also several Turkish language schools in the market. Unlike a private course, these courses don’t have the capability to adjust their classes to each individual’s learning styles and personal goals. For that reason, it will be your job to interact with the materials provided by the program in a way that will honor your personal learning styles and goals.
Even though a classroom setting will probably not touch on each individual’s learning styles, it’s very important that you interview a potential school to get a feel for their educational philosophy (if any) and what you could expect from the class. Some sample questions could be:
What is a typical class like in terms of length and activities?
Do you follow a specific method of teaching Turkish?
How many years has this program been providing Turkish instruction?
What are the qualifications of the teachers?
What is the cost of the program and what options do you offer?
What is the timetable for the classes?
How do you evaluate a student’s success?
What makes this program different from your competition?
How much time do you expect students to work outside of class?
Having the answers to these questions will help you make the choice of program. Match the answers to your needs. For example, if you are a morning person and only one of the programs offers morning classes, that might sway your decision. Don’t just take the first course that you find -- shop around. These schools are careful to hire expert sales people who are masters at winning potential students over. Take the time to interview the representative carefully and take a couple of days to mull over the answers and compare them to the answers from the other schools before you make your decision.
The bottom line
All languages learned in adulthood are learned on purpose.
Take the time and effort to seek out learning partners, instructors, programs or other means of advancing your current knowledge of Turkish that match your goals and meet your learning style. Try out different ways of learning Turkish and keep a log of what works and what does not work for you. Learning a new language can be lots of fun. You will meet new people, stimulate your brain and increase your confidence in speaking Turkish. Enjoy learning Turkish -- kolay gelsin!
SOURCE: http://www.todayszaman.com/news-240864-learning-turkish-its-time-to-learn-turkish.html
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Tips on mastering a second language
Tips on mastering a second language | |
| Are you wondering if you will ever master a second language? Disillusioned that you have not made more progress in your language study than you have by now? Believe it or not, language learning is not all about going to class and doing your homework. | |
I came across some interesting research that may be helpful for you if you are studying a second language. According to second language acquisition researcher John Schumann, who has conducted research on those studying English as a second language in the US, there are eight variables that affect the language acquisition of the student. Let me just explain that Schumann refers to this group as the English language learners and refers to those whose mother tongue is English in the US as the target language group. Let’s just look briefly at the eight social variables which he claims affect the quality of contact that English language learners have with the target language group: Social dominance is the first social variable. Schumann states that when English language learners, such as an Arab or Japanese person learning English in the US, are politically, culturally, technically or economically superior to the target language group, which is in this case Britain or the US, then it tends to hinder learning the target language. In his research he also points out that on the other hand if the English language learning group, such as Cubans or Mexicans in the US, has a lower socio-economic status than the target language group, they may resist learning the target language. You can see that in either case, there is resistance to learning English well. This is not to say that English is never learned well when this is the case, but to illustrate the fact that attitudes affect progress in language learning. Using your communication skills, whether it is orally or silently, you can command social dominance. Every culture has its own form of body language. Perhaps you have noticed some of these in your dealings in social settings where you are. For example, one very common signal is learning to listen and not interrupt when another person is speaking. However, in some cultures interrupting another person is not considered rude, and the one who speaks the loudest earns the right to be heard. Other signals associated with language and communication is to understand how people in another culture tend to listen. Do they lend a sense of attention and perhaps lean forward? Giving the correct greeting in another culture is one of the best sources to help you gain some sense of confidence and social dominance. A cheerful and smiling greeting (as culturally appropriate) can win the heart of your community. Also different cultures use their eyes to communicate in different ways. For anyone learning English and speaking with an English speaker, you will usually notice that eye contact is important with a normal amount of blinking. Also native English speakers do not tend to make a lot extra arm, body and leg movements. Assimilation, preservation and adaptation are another social variable. Schumann says if a person chooses assimilation as a way to integrate, it means he gives up his own lifestyle and values and adopts those of the target language group. Similarly, reservation means that the English language learning group maintains its own lifestyle and values and rejects those of the target language group. Adaptation means that the English language learners adapt to the lifestyle and values of the target language group, but maintain their own lifestyle and values for intra-group use. Each of these variables can involve personal choice. If you really want to “fit in” with the target language group and develop your knowledge and ability to speak on different topics with confidence, you need to adapt, be motivated and work hard. The question here is how much do you really want to “fit in”? Why is it important for the English language learner to learn English, or we could ask how important is it for the foreigner living in Turkey to learn Turkish? Enclosure is the third social variable. Enclosure refers to the degree to which the English language learning group and target language group share the same social constructs such as schools, religious places, clubs, recreational facilities, crafts, professions and trades. If the two groups share these social constructs, enclosure is said to be low and second language acquisition is more easily facilitated. We have considered the first three points and can look at the other factors -- cohesiveness, size, congruence, attitude and intended length of residence -- in my next piece. Note: Charlotte McPherson is the author of “Culture Smart: Turkey, 2005.” Please keep your questions and observations coming: I want to ensure this column is a help to you, Today’s Zaman’s readers. Email: c.mcpherson@todayszaman.com SOURCE: http://www.sundayszaman.com/sunday/columnistDetail_getNewsById.action?newsId=239212&columnistId=68 | |
Sunday, October 10, 2010
BLOG'umuza hosgeldiniz! - Learn Turkish at Rumi Forum Washington, DC
We hope to let others know of our activities through this blog informing them not only of our Turkish classes but also information and news related to Turkish culture, language and tradition.
Hosgeldiniz !
Read testimonials from past students:
http://learnturkishdc.blogspot.com/2011/11/testimonials-from-past-students.html
Learn Turkish at Rumi Forum Washington, DC
Turkish Classes at Rumi Forum Washington, DC Rumi Forum1150 17th St. N.W., Suite 408
Washington, DC 20036
Learn Turkish in Washington, DC! Experienced teachers are offering Turkish Language Classes at the Rumi Forum in Washington DC. If you are looking for Turkish lessons in DC Metropolitan Area, Rumi Forum is the right place to begin. There are three terms in a year:
Text Book: 30$
For further queries and application form please email: turkish@rumiforum.org
or visit http://www.rumiforum.org/frontpage/learn-turkish.html for latest details
Why Learn Turkish?
The idea of learning Turkish is strange for most American learners; but that rapidly changes to a sense of excitement as soon as the career opportunities and adventure of Turkey are discovered. Its central connections to Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East make doing business in Turkey a necessity.
Since pre-historic times, Turkey has been the vital bridge between Europe and the Middle East. Its mighty Ottoman Empire consolidated much of Eastern Europe and the Middle East into one great civilization until the early 20th century. The flavor of Turkish culture is richly cosmopolitan, a sophisticated mix of ancient traditions in a contemporary Geist.
For Americans, Turkey's liberal political and intellectual climate bridging East and West, traditional and modern, is a comforting environment. Learning Turkish gives access to many new opportunities for business, scientific and technological research, and for scholarship and journalism. Currently, students in Turkey are learning English at a record rate, while few Americans learn Turkish: to offset that imbalance of skill and opportunity, there is great need for Americans to meet the creative challenge of learning Turkish.
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