Whether you’re looking for a cozy cafe or a place to go dancing on a Friday night, we’ve got some great local tips for you so that there’s no need to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for the third time or get mixed up in a horde of people in Times Square. From neighborhood guides to off the beaten path destinations, consider our blog your one-stop destination for all things NYC culture.
Centered around a historic park dotted with the trees of fairy tales, Fort Greene is home to picture-perfect brownstones, an array of cafes and restaurants, and several beacons of Brooklyn culture. While you may not be able to afford an…
Read moreIt’s two months until your big presentation at work. You’ve just discovered that it has to be given in English. You begin to feel like all the English you know is slowly morphing into an indistinguishable blob of prepositions, verb…
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With many neighborhoods to explore in Brooklyn, it’s easy to miss out on a few. Often overshadowed by other Prospect Park adjacent hoods, Prospect-Lefferts Gardens is a bit of a diamond in the ruff and certainly not to be missed….
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New York City has its fair share of holiday pilgrimage sites. While it’s definitely worth checking out the tree at Rockefeller Center and the holiday markets of Manhattan, there are many other ways to get into the holiday spirit that…
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After several long winters in NYC, I’ve finally figured out how to avoid spending the entirety of winter nestled deep within a self-made fort of styrofoam take out containers and bottles of red wine. The trick is pretty simple; just…
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Whether you like your mashed potatoes smooth as silk or lumpy just like grandma makes them, we can all agree that Thanksgiving is better with wine company. Every year at BSL, the whole school gets together to share a delicious…
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As Winter approaches, New Yorkers are once again confronted with shockingly early sunsets and trains full of sniffling commuters. While heading home directly after work to hide under a blanket seems like the best option, there are other ways to embrace the coziest time of the year. Sip a hot toddy near a roaring fire, slurp some delicious soup in Chinatown, or wrap your hands around a mug of hot chocolate. To help you live up to your cozy potential, here’s a few places worth checking out:
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With the city at your doorstep, studying ESL in New York offers an unparalleled immersive language learning experience. To give our students the opportunity to fully soak in the culture and vibrancy of the city, we encourage our teachers to…
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While most neighborhoods situated under bridges are better-suited for vagrants and and back-alley dealings, DUMBO is a shining exception. Cobbled streets give way to picturesque waterfront views and there’s no shortage of first-rate places to dine and shop. To help…
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Pumpkins have taken over the stoops and costume shops are beginning to look a lot like post-apocalyptic grocery stores. New Yorkers certainly aren’t afraid (hehe) to show their love for all things Halloween. Whether that be sipping green cocktails served…
Read more“The team was great. They gave us good advice. We have done a lot of visits with Rich. It was very interesting.”
Sedgard Diazabakana, France, February 2018
“The school is very well located, well equipped, and the staff is always ready to help. The size of the school makes it easy for everyone to be in control, to help each other, to get to know each other, and to learn. I loved the space, the people, and everything I experienced. The constant activities, the classes outside, the relaxed teachers, and the happy hours leave the atmosphere lighter and fun.”
Bob Gomes Ferraz, Brazil, November 2018
“Very nice staff and great atmosphere at school. I have enjoyed my stay.”
Laura Schmaeler, Germany, September 2018
“Good atmosphere at BSL! I got a very warm welcome from Madison and enjoyed staying here!”
Stephanie Hanel, Germany, June 2018
“Everyone was very friendly. I really like that every staff member says, “Hello!’ or ‘Bye!’ when I come to or leave the school.”
Rie Sasaki, Japan, May 2018
“Everybody did a great job. Thanks for all of you from the bottom of my heart!”
Susanne Steinbach, Germany, May 2018
“The staff are helpful and polite, and I will miss everybody.”
Sebastian Cornieles, Venezuela, April 2018
“Thanks to the staff, there is a cool atmosphere. They are professional, nice, happy, and always smiling.”
Clara Fontes, France, April 2018
“The staff is amazing and makes the day better because of all the positive energy and laughter.”
Beatrice Martin, Canada, April 2018
Everyone is really kind and helpful. Everyone knows your name and smiles at you. They care about how you’re doing and try to help.
Laura Lumbresa Sarrias, Spain, November 2017
Very friendly and warm, always present.
Khadija Benaissi, France, November 2017
The staff are all friendly and so nice. I see this is a good workplace for the staff, and it is important to offer a good environment for the students to learn.
Takeshi Ogino, Japan, August 2017
I really appreciated the help at school. I think not every school helps the students so much and so fast.
Simone Herzog, Switzerland, July 2017
You are all great people, keep doing what you’re doing! Thank you for helping me not only at school, but in NY in general.
Carlos Eduardo Trujillo, Mexico, June 2017
Very friendly and easy-going! They make students feel comfortable about speaking English with staff and other students.
Bruno La Regina, Brazil, June 2017
Everyone is friendly, available, competent, and also funny!
Maria Vittoria Scebba, Italy, May 2017
I was surprised to see all the staff knows the students’ names. They are very kind and give good advice.
Ayako Shimada, Japan, May 2017
They are all very friendly and helpful, and it looks like everyone has fun in their jobs.
Dominik Gnann, Germany, May 2017
Thank you so much for everything. You are so helpful, open-minded, curious, kind, and I felt in good hands.
Silke Kampfmeier, Germany, May 2017
Warm-hearted! It’s amazing how you care about every single student.
Janine Aniela Gehring, Germany, April 2017
The staff is friendly, open and helpful.
Leila Bertschinger, Switzerland, April 2017
Madison is one of the kindest people I have ever met. From day one she was so warm-hearted to every student.
Benjamin Schiehl, Germany, March 2017
Everyone is really nice, friendly, cheerful. Thank you for making this experience for unforgettable!
Lucia Perez Barhumi, Peru, February 2017
Warm, friendly, attentive – everything was perfect.
Thibault Genton, Switzerland, February 2017
“The school is very well located, well equipped, and the staff is always ready to help. The size of the school makes it easy for everyone to be in control, to help each other, to get to know each other, and to learn. I loved the space, the people, and everything I experienced. The constant activities, the classes outside, the relaxed teachers, and the happy hours leave the atmosphere lighter and fun.”
Bob Gomes Ferraz, Brazil, November 2018
“I feel more comfortable speaking English. I spent 3 years in school in Sweden (my last 3 years) and I hated almost every teacher: this have been the best 4 weeks of school in my life.”
Mira Engelbrektsson, Sweden November 2018
“I want to say thank you, to the hole staff from the school. It was a pleasure for me to join the class and to spend time at school an school activities! You all were really nice, professional and helpful. I had a lot of fun in the standard class of Ethan and I could improve my English. He is a super teacher, motivating, humorous and he gives diversified lessons. It was a wonderful experience for me.”
Therese Amstutz, Switzerland, October 2018
“I loved doing an English course at BSL. It felt a little bit like home.”
Rosan Kuipers, Netherland, September 2018
“I loved every minute of it, thank you for making my trip that good here. A special thanks to Rich for his warm welcome here.”
Jessica Allely, France, September 2018
“The atmosphere of the school was the most impressive part for me. I loved it.”
Barbara Duarte, Brazil, July 2018
“It’s very calm, relaxed, and everybody is nice.”
Caroline Von Waitz, Germany, July 2018
“The course and everything here at the school has been even better than what I expected.”
Laura Melotti, Italy, July 2018
“I loved the students, teachers, atmosphere, activities, etc. Perfect rooms, perfect view, and great donuts on Fridays!”
Jeannine Wiemann, Switzerland, June 2018
“Good location with a terrific view of Manhattan, very close to the train stop and to my favorite bakery. Thank you so much for all your patience!”
Sabrina Giovanardi, Italy, June 2018
“I love how familiar the school is. I’m so happy I chose this language school. I felt so comfortable and had a lot of fun.”
Seraina Eisenring, Switzerland, June 2018
“I really enjoyed coming to school! It was amazing: the staff, the students, the activities, everything!”
Manon Bongard, Switzerland, June 2018
“I’m really happy for the words and the advice received from my teachers. I miss them and the school so much. It was really a wonderful experience that encouraged me to deepen my English’s study. I thank Richard very much for the excellent organization of activities and lessons. I hope to see you as soon as possible.”
Francesca Gisotti, Italy, May 2018
“It was very nice and in only four days I could improve my English.”
Guillerme Moretti, Brazil, May 2018
“Small, good teachers, nice students.”
Linus Thofte, Sweden, May 2018
“I had a really good time, and I surely recommend it to everyone who wants to come to New York.”
Francesca Gisotti, Italy, May 2018
“The atmosphere is really welcoming.”
Beatrice Martin, Canada, April 2018
“The school is really good, thank you so much! I’ve felt so welcome here. It’s a great atmosphere and it really doesn’t feel like school, I liked to go there every day.”
Johanna Loeffl, Austria, March 2018
“Good atmosphere between people and the location is awesome.”
Isabelle Olivier, France, March 2018
Clean, chill, bright, comfy.
Munyee Yap, Malaysia, November 2017
Perfect view, nice location, friendly and helpful staff. I love everything!
Rena Gentsu, Japan, October 2017
Overall it was an amazing experience that exceeded all my expectations. I wants to thank you all for the excellent 8 weeks I spent there.
Bernardo Augusto Rodrigues de Araujo, Brazil, October 2017
The school is awesome. I learnt a lot and my speaking improved a lot.
Thiago Henrichs Stulpen, Brazil, October 2017
The small size of the school enables students to easily talk to each other. All the students come from all over the world, it is a way to be more open-minded. The staff is very kind and always takes care of students.
Marie-Charlotte Alvard, France, October 2017
BSL is the best school I have studied in. Everything was perfect but the best point is Rich, amazing, always in touch with the students, great job!
Jose Adrian Serrano Sanchez, Spain, October 2017
I had a great time attending English classes at Brooklyn School of Languages! Even though going back to school at a certain age may sound like a nightmare, all of you made this experience very easy. I had a lot of fun, loved the atmosphere, teachers, afternoon activities.
Anna Wicijowska, Poland, September 2017
There are not so many students so we are able to talk to everyone, I liked it. I made many good friends through the school activities and tried to be with them all the time to speak English.
Ayano Enda, Japan, September 2017
I really loved learning English at BSL, the school atmosphere is awesome! Thank you Rich and the team!
Andrea Campelo S. Dias, Brazil, September 2017
Beautiful design and view.
Ann-Catrin Wischner, Germany, September 2017
I like the familiar atmosphere and the staff is very professional. I appreciate the concept with the weekly assessments and the personal progress reports.
Joelle Christine Tinguely, Switzerland, August 2017
The location is perfect, in a very nice district of Brooklyn, and very close to Manhattan. And for me it is good that there aren’t so many Japanese students in this school.
Takeshi Ogino, Japan, August 2017
Easy to find, awesome view, clean, friendly and helpful staff – it has everything you need.
Falk Ehler, Germany, August 2017
No need to go to the Empire State or Top of the Rock, the school has a great view!
Berenice Champion, France, August 2017
I am very happy to learn English in this school, it’s fantastic! My teacher is excellent, very patient with us, and the staff is very friendly and helpful. Thanks so much!
Ester Carmona Alcolea, Spain, July 2017
“Sam is a good teacher. He gave me a lot of information to improve my English. The approach was very good.”
Sedgard Diazabakana, France, February 2019
“Ethan is an excellent teacher who always motivates the students, and makes them reach the highest point of their learning. The desire that the students learn is something very exciting and that has aroused the attention of all. He wants the student to learn.”
Bob Gomes Ferraz, Brazil, November 2018
“Madison, besides being an excellent teacher, is an incredible human being. She is human, kind, and really wants the student to learn. Whenever I came into her class, I knew I would get out of there with more knowledge and self-confidence. Madison was always open to new ideas and new formats, which makes us even more motivated. All my goals have been achieved. The proof is that I almost got a 100 on the final test, thanks to the help of Madison and the correction of all my mistakes.”
Bob Gomes Ferraz, Brazil, November 2018
“Cory is a very interesting, patient, and friendly person. Everyone liked him in the classroom. He teaches in a very didactic and fun way. His class was always interesting.”
Bob Gomes Ferraz, Brazil, November 2018
“I’m back from my trip and wanted to thank you again for your help during the last few month of preparation. The lecture series last week went very well thanks to you! It’s been a great pleasure and honor to work with you Lauren and with the rest of the stuff in Brooklyn School of Languages, I loved the atmosphere of the school, the dynamic feel and the rare professionalism!”
Noa Hazan, US, November 2018
“Lauren made all classes interesting and funny.”
Marina Cuvilceva, Latvia, October 2018
“Steve made us speak a lot and we had a lot of discussions in class. Speaking for me was the most important thing. Steve has been. One of the best teachers I’ve ever had, both in Italy and abroad. He gave us a lot of useful materials like the phonemic chart.”
Laura Melotti, Italy, July 2018
“Madison, Ethan, and Sam are great teachers and all of them have a different method to teach, which helped me a lot to understand better. Thanks for everything and the advice I got specifically from Ethan. Having 3 teachers is more helpful than having one. Madison and Sam, thanks for your help!”
Jose Garcia Soto, Mexico, July 2018
“I love how Baise teaches. You really feel that she loves her job!”
Jeannine Wiemann, Switzerland, June 2018
“Ethan and Sam had very different teaching styles, but both are really good! They were both great at correcting pronunciation, and writing. They were also able to provide great explanations for things I had issues with outside the book.”
Mariana Mendes, Brazil, June 2018
“Lauren has a lot of energy. She speaks quickly, but clearly instead of slow, so you can understand easily and that is good. We discussed really interesting and useful topics related to New York with presentations, videos, music, etc. It was great!”
Laura Lumbreras Sarria, Spain, May 2018
“Baise is brilliant with a lot of humor and a good understanding of our mistakes. She has very good explanations and is very patient talking about the news and our lives in NYC.”
Susanne Steinbach, Germany, May 2018
“I had the opportunity to be in touch with two different styles of teaching, and I think that this was very good. The teachers use a wide range of materials and this makes the lessons interesting.”
Raissa Barbosa, Brazil, May 2018
“They are really friendly and helped me to find a new way of learning the English language.”
Francesca Gisotti, Italy, May 2018
“Madison’s classes were fun and she was always happy, so that’s even better.”
Sebastian Cornieles, Venezuela, April 2018
“Cory was a very good and also funny teacher whose lessons aren’t boring. I learned and improved because he gave me easy explanations.”
Clara Fontes, France, April 2018
“Lauren always prepared various lessons which focused on my needs. She was very supportive and she understood all my problems. I’m very satisfied.”
Miriana Pession, Italy, April 2018
“It was really good. Lauren is very dynamic, friendly and clear, keeping the student’s attention.”
Germano Vieira, Brazil, March 2018
“Baise is friendly, funny and she does her job very well. Her explanations were very helpful. She is a very open-hearted and open minded teacher.”
Johanna Loeffl, Austria, March 2018
“Dynamic teaching and Madison is ‘supercool’ as we say in French!”
Isabelle Olivier, France, March 2018
My teacher is very kind, friendly, dynamic, very spontaneous and respectful.
Sandra Picarra, Portugal, October 2017
She makes great lessons, it’s interesting and she knows how to motivate us. I liked that we started the morning with grammar and vocabulary (listening) and moved on with speaking and reading after the break.
Ann-Catrin Wischner, Germany, September 2017
She made classes very interesting and fun. I could improve my speaking and my grammar in just 2 weeks.
Yolanda Serrano Reviriego, Spain, September 2017
Each teacher taught in a different way but all of them did a great job. Every day was interesting and I learned so many things each day.
Joelle Christine Tinguely, Switzerland, August 2017
It’s a fantastic school, the teachers are really good and fun.
Aniela Rosales, Mexico, August 2017
Joanie is professional, patient and dynamic. She is fantastic and I definitely recommend her
Elena Maria Alvarez Castro, Spain, July 2017
Cory is really a great teacher. He makes us participate, he puts us at ease. Thanks to him, I learned and progressed quickly.
Karine Guguen, France, June 2017
Ethan is very experienced and makes every class unique. The materials he used make the class enjoyable.
Carlos Eduardo Trujillo, Mexico, June 2017
Madison had a great style, empathy and gave great examples applied to real life.
Juliana Alvarez Restrepo, Colombia, June 2017
My teacher was really kind and funny and the lessons were interesting. There was a good balance between the activities and she used lots of extra materials.”
Giancarlo Serany, Italy, June 2017
Ethan has lots of resources on how to study English and lots of good advice. In one week I practiced many aspects of the language and skills.”
Ayako Shimada, Japan, May 2017
I really like how she teaches because I can understand everything and she has a positive attitude. I improved a lot and I am more confident now when I have to speak.
Mattia Pizzutti, Italy, April 2017
I thank my teacher Baise because she is a good teacher and also funny! I think I learnt a lot because in class we can express ourselves freely, I was not uncomfortable. For the first time I enjoyed going to school!
Jeanne Savine, France, April 2017
Ethan always makes sure we have fun while learning.
Henry de Roquefeuil, France, March 2017
I loved having Joanie and Lauren as teachers. Joanie is very interesting and sweet and I love Lauren’s energy.
Manuela Albero, France, March 2017
“I entered BSL without knowing almost anything of English, without self-confidence and positivity. I left there knowing that I spoke reasonably well, confident, and ready to get a job.”
Bob Gomes Ferraz, Brazil, November 2018
“Like always, it was just great to improve my English in such a relaxed atmosphere. Thank you very much.”
Franco Previtali, Switzerland, October 2018
“My level before the course was low but after classes my progress was very good.”
Javier Martinez, Spain, September 2018
“It’s a very beautiful course and the topics are interesting. The teacher is so nice and the book is easy to use.”
Giulia Olivero, Italy, July 2018
“We talked about a lot of current important issues. All the topics were interesting and involving. I’ve loved having all those conversations and discussions about our cultures and our society.”
Laura Melotti, Italy, July 2018
“The course has a great balance between all areas. It’s a good way for us to practice everything. Overall I was really happy and satisfied with the course, even though I have only been here for 3 weeks.”
Mariana Mendes, Brazil, June 2018
“The lessons were very useful and I also had a lot of fun.”
Sara Valduga, Italy, June 2018
“I really enjoyed it and was surprised in a positive way by the professionalism of the courses.”
Sylvie Ducrest, Switzerland, June 2018
“The teachers were really awesome. I think I learned how to really learn a language!”
Saori Oji, Japan, April 2018
“Before coming to America, I didn’t have confidence to speak English. However thanks to Ethan and my classmates I became able to speak English positively. I’m grateful.”
Takeru Taniguchi, Japan, March 2018
“I can’t find words to describe how much I love it. It is a great experience, it is very motivating, and the teachers are great. I have never seen such a great course.”
Elena Fomina, Russia, March 2018
I like that there not many people in class and the lessons even at advanced level are challenging. I’ve done a few courses like this before and this is the best school I’ve seen.
Laura Lumbresa Sarrias, Spain, November 2017
Although 2 weeks were short period, I believe that I learned a lot of things at your class, not only English as a language but also how to behave in the global business situation. Now I am full of motivation for making this chance as a turning point in my life.
Kazuhiro Hosaka, Japan, October 2017
I think the business class is very well structured. There are a lot of interesting topics and the book is very challenging.
Martina Michel, Italy, September 2017
I want to thank you about the two weeks that I spent in NYC. I really enjoyed my time at the school and I really was very satisfied about your lessons. It was my first English course abroad but your abilities in teaching and keeping the attention of the class really inspired me.
Alessandro Rossi, Italy, August 2017
Awesome class, lots of fun, comfortable atmosphere. The teacher was friendly and helpful. I gained confidence in speaking.
Falk Ehler, Germany, August 2017
The best English classes I’ve ever had. I learnt so many things and I am not afraid to speak anymore.
Berenice Champion, France, August 2017
I really enjoyed the BSL structure, the way they teach and the relationships with the students.
Claudia Jacobovitz, Brazil, July 2017
The lessons were so fun and we learned so much. Now I can understand and speak better.
Edoardo Girardin, Italy, June 2017
Private lessons are very useful and the teachers bring very interesting materials and topics into class. I can tell they do very good research.
Diego Sebastian Gueler Monte, Argentina, June 2017
The topics covered in class were helpful for conversation. We spoke a lot and learned a lot of new vocabulary.
Dominik Gnann, Germany, May 2017
I like my Business English teacher, he is a pushing us forward in a very positive way.
Janine Aniela Gehring, Germany, April 2017
There’s a very friendly and easy atmosphere in class.
Leila Bertschinger, Switzerland, April 2017
The topics were interesting and relevant. We used a lot of different materials and learnt a lot of interesting of interesting expressions.
Henry de Roquefeuil, France, March 2017
I’m very satisfied because the classes at BSL don’t have too many students, so I had a lot of opportunity to speak at school.
Michiko Kuwauchi, Japan, March 2017
The English course was very good and gave me the opportunity to talk a lot.
Mauro Grombone, Italy, March 2017
“My host family was very kind and always cared about me. They corrected my English, taught new vocabularies, and answered my questions nicely.”
Junko Misaki, Japan, November 2018
They always helped me when I needed something, and have a beautiful house! When I was at home, we talked a lot. A great family!”
Jeannine Wiemann, Switzerland, June 2018
“She was really kind and like a real mother.”
Saori Oji, Japan, April 2018
“I’ve felt so welcome, they showed me around the neighborhood and went shopping with me so I could decide what I want for breakfast. We spoke a lot, they were really interested in getting to know me. I’m really happy that I met them, they gave me a great home in Brooklyn and when I come back I will definitely visit them.”
Johanna Loeffl, Austria, March 2018
“They made me comfortable and we talked about a lot of things, politics, travel… They cooked delicious food every day.”
Takeru Taniguchi, Japan, March 2018
I think I was really lucky during my experience in New York because my host family is really great and the house is very well located.
Rossella Ponente, Italy, October 2017
They are really attentive, polite and supportive. Everything was perfect!
Ivonne Litschauer, Austria, October 2017
They are a very kind, friendly and helpful family. During dinner we talked about the day, school and other things. Aaron and Nicole cooked for me every night and the dishes were very good.
Camila Ciotoli, Italy, September 2017
Very friendly and kind family, interesting neighborhood. They gave me a lot of recommendations. Especially on weekends the breakfast was extraordinary!
Valerio Preisig, Switzerland, September 2017
Very calm and friendly family, they helped every time I had a question. The house was clean.
Falk Ehler, Germany, August 2017
They are a very lovely family. They helped me a lot and answered every question I had. The house was clean the whole time.
Clarissa Marlene Schwilk, Germany, August 2017
Our host showed a lot of interest in us and asked a lot of questions which made us feel totally welcome. And the food was delicious and well-balanced.
Melanie Huber, Germany, August 2017
The most interesting part of my stay was to meet my host Linda, who is a very interesting and nice person. She introduced me to her friends and shared with me her daily life.
Cristina Romero, France, August 2017
I felt like home, really nice atmosphere. I arrived late and they were waiting for me. I enjoyed speaking with them after dinner. Everything was as clean as my own home. The food was really good and she also taught me how to cook. They also gave me good recommendations about what to do and where to eat.
Laura Gomez, Spain, August 2017
I booked homestay B&B and it was very convenient because I had my independence. Tracey was very welcoming and kind, always helpful without even having to ask. She gave me very good tips to enter museums and other places without waiting at the entrance.
Jocelyne Prévot, France, June 2017
Amazing family, very friendly and helpful. I felt very welcome and had an amazing time!
Meltem Te, Germany, June 2017
My host mum Sonja is so helpful, friendly and very funny. And the food was delicious!
Dominik Gnann, Germany, May 2017
I really felt at home, Emily is a welcoming and open-minded person.
Natalina Siffert-Fiori, Brazil, May 2017
My host family is very kind and it was a pleasure to get to know her.
Jeannine, Switzerland, March 2017
Emily is a really kind and nice person. I enjoyed staying in her home so much! She welcomed me very warmly and I felt comfortable all the time I stayed with her. Plus her cooking is amazing! It’s always fresh, healthy a varied, I was very impressed.
Alexandra Hafner, Germany, November 2016
Years teaching: Though I’m pretty new to teaching, 8 months now, I’m pretty resourceful and have 2 years of experience doing bilingual community workshops. My current mission is to empower language learners through cultural awareness and language acquisition.
University: I’ve got a Bachelor’s degree in Latin American studies from the University of Richmond, Richmond, VA and a TESOL/TEFL Certification from The New School, New York, NY.
Hometown: I am “Bushwick, Born and Bred”
What is something about you that would surprise your students?
I’m currently training to run a half marathon!
What is your favorite pastime when you are not working?
When I’m not teaching in the classroom, I’m out on the field training or on the courts playing volleyball. When I can, I’m dancing the night away to afro-Cuban beats, salsa and my all-time fave, Dominican bachata!
Is there a good language learning tip that you give to your students?
Pro Tip: Language is a living thing, so don’t get stuck on the rules (but do learn them!). It adapts to the changing times and it is therefore helpful to learn language chunks (how a native would say things) instead.
What is your favorite part of teaching?
Where to start!? There’s the cultural exchange, truly dedicated students, laughter, limitless creativity, no one class is the same, and most importantly students expand their opportunities for whatever that may be.
“My host mom was very nice and friendly. We spent a lot of time together.”
Italy, 17 years old, July 2018
“The people are very nice and ask us questions to improve [our English].”
France, 16 years old, July 2018
“I love my host family!”
Spain, 17 years old, July 2018
“They have been very friendly with me. They treated me as if I was part of the family. I’m going to miss them.
Spain, 17 years old, July 2018
“I just wanted to let you know this season has been absolutely perfect. We have had NO complaints aside from Julie’s little issue with her HF but the teens cried at the airport before leaving one another, they all said it had been amazing, and that the musical had been amazing, and that everything had been perfect. So thank you. Thank you, it was a pleasure working with you this year and I cannot wait for next year.”
Calvin Thomas, Agent, July 2018
“The staff members are friendly and happy to help when you need something. It is nice that there are not too many people.”
Switzerland, 16 years old, July 2018
“The places that we visited were absolutely amazing.”
Italy, 17 years old, July 2018
“There was a lot of variety and the leaders were kind and always ready to answer questions.”
Italy, 16 years old, July 2018
“We visited a lot of different places and the activity leaders were useful.”
Italy, 16 years old, July 2018
“The school has given me everything I needed.”
Spain, 16 years old, July 2018
“Everyone tries to help you in every situation.”
Italy, 17 years old, July 2018
“The staff are friendly and kind.”
Italy, 18 years old, July 2018
“The school is modern and well-organized.”
Italy, 18 years old, July 2018
“We always did very different things, and everything was perfect and organized. Everyone was very kind and ready to help.”
Italy, 16 years old, July 2018
“We had fun together, but we also learned a lot. The staff members were always available.”
Italy, 16 years old, July 2018
“Bryan is an amazing teacher. I learned more things in 3 weeks than in 1 year at school.”
Algerian, 14 years old, July 2018
“I improved my knowledge and I’m not afraid to speak in front of people. It was a fantastic experience! The English course was organized and also the teachers were good. I’m so happy.”
Italy, 18 years old, July 2018
“Amazing teachers, lessons, and games. Steve and Bryan are fantastic teachers. They love teaching and they’re always happy to help you. I’ve improved my English.”
Italy, 18 years old, July 2018
“There was a good balance between learning and playing. Bryan managed to keep the attention of the entire class. I found it particularly useful watching videos and then answering the teacher’s questions to check if we understood.”
Italy, 18 years old, July 2018
“Classes were funny, interesting, and useful. Bryan always got our attention because he’s funny, but he also teaches well. I think I’ve learnt a lot of new words and I can understand when American people are speaking.”
Italy, 18 years old, July 2018
“The classes were very interesting and fun, and make you want to learn. We were always doing very different activities, and the teachers were very fun and had good relationships between the students.”
Italy, 16 years old, July 2018
“The lessons weren’t boring, but funny and interesting. We used all sorts of materials, not only the course book. I learned new words, sentences, and idioms, and the course is very useful.”
Italy, 16 years old, July 2018
“The classes were dynamic and I have learned new things.”
Spain, 16 years old, July 2018
“I’ve learned a lot, and I was never bored. Steve is an excellent teacher; I’ve really liked his classes. I think that I’ve made a lot of progress in English and I’m really happy.”
Spain, 16 years old, July 2018
“I love the way Richelle does the classes. She is very respectful, hardworking, and she loves her job. I’ve improved my English.”
Spain, 14 years old, July 2018
“Richelle is REALLY good. I have learnt so much with her.”
Denmark, 13 years old, July 2018
“I find my lessons very interesting. The teacher is very good and explains very well. She uses the projector a lot and this is very helpful for me. I think I really improved my English. The program is also very organized and the staff always takes care of us.”
Elena Bussolari, Italy, July 2016
“Sherry, my host mom, cooks very well. All the family is very nice and they integrate us into the conversations. I feel like at my home.”
Rosalie, France, July 2016
“A good school in a very beautiful position in Brooklyn. I liked it so much! Also my host family was very nice with me, and available to answer all my questions.”
Riccardo Di Molfetta, Italy, July 2016
“Emily is the best, and she cooks very well!”
Giulia PiaFaraone, Italy, July 2016
“I like the places we visit! Albert is a fantastic leader! The best experience!”
Thor Renner, Denmark, July 2016
“I really like the school and the people here. There was a lot of fun!”
Kiara Monja Heidi Horig, Germany, July 2016
“Amanda’s lessons are very fun and interesting, I learnt a lot of new words.”
Maja Talarek, Poland, July 2016
“The general atmosphere in the house is very nice and the family is always available!”
Gaia Guglielmo, Italy, July 2016
“I am very happy and satisfied about the school!”
Julien Rubio, France, July 2016
“The program was awesome: the lessons had a good balance between speaking, grammar and listening, our activity leader Albert was amazing and my family was typically American which was great.”
Mateo Raguenault, France, July 2015
“My students and I had a great time in Brooklyn. Our host families really integrated us in their daily lives and the activity program went really smoothly. Our leader Albert was fantastic, always ready to help and very knowledgeable about New York. And the commute to school by subway was no problem at all. Thank you to everyone at BSL for making our stay a very successful one.”
Eas-Vele group, Spain, July 2015
“I had a great time in New York, the program was really well organised. I enjoyed the classes and activities, and my host family was just perfect too!”
Alysse Bayon, France, July 2015
“My host family was very kind, during and after dinner we talked a lot and the house was very clean.”
Joyly Stevens, Belgium, July 2014
“The classes were very interesting, I think I have progressed a lot. My 3 favorite excursions are the trip to Coney Island, the walk through Wall Street and the visit to the Empire State Building.”
Mailys Noziere, France, July 2014
“We had a very good teacher, I have improved a lot my English. I enjoyed my stay and the visits to the Top of the Rock, Times Square and Brooklyn Bridge. Also, my host family is very nice, they are helpful and very friendly.”
Marc Xapelli, Spain, July 2014
Years teaching: I have been teaching English for 6 years.
University: B.A. in Communication Arts from The University of Wisconsin – Madison and Master of Education: TESOL from Boston University.
Hometown:Oshkosh, WI
Hometown: Have you ever lived outside of the United States? Yes, I lived and taught in Busan, South Korea for 4 years.
What is your favorite thing about teaching?
Honestly, I love the performance aspect of teaching. Meeting and interacting with students and watching them progress is great too.
A good language learning tip for your students?
Find any and every possible way to immerse yourself in the language.
Something about you that would surprise your students
My sister and I were born four years apart, but we share the same birthday (February 10th). We also share our birthday with our sister-in-law.
Years teaching: 6 years
University: Hunter College for undergraduate, and NYU for grad school
Hometown: Queens
How did you start teaching ESL?
I decided to become a teacher after graduating from college. I was living abroad, taking Hebrew classes. ESL teaching seemed perfect for me because I’ve always been interested in language, and I love coming up with silly activities to get people talking. Also, I had been a journalism student in college, and this seemed like it would be another great way to ask questions to people from different backgrounds. When I came home, I applied to graduate school, and started teaching at a language school in Manhattan.
What is something about you that would surprise your students?
Um… They might be surprised to learn that I know how to juggle. Although I’m not very good at it, so they probably wouldn’t find it too surprising.
Have you ever lived outside of the United States?
I lived in Israel for half a year.
What’s your favorite pastime when you are not working?
Taking long walks and exploring the city.
Is there a good language learning tip that you give your students?
Just don’t take yourself too seriously. Have fun with it!
Years teaching: 2 years
University: DePaul University
Hometown: Columbus, OH.
How did you start teaching ESL?
I first started teaching ESL after I graduated from college. I really wanted to travel to France, so I applied to a program that allowed me to spend nine months teaching English in Corsica. I taught in two public elementary schools in the beautiful city that is Ajaccio.
Who is your favorite film director?
One of my favorite film directors is Wes Anderson. A lot of Hollywood movies lack any sense of originality. In my opinion, Wes Anderson’s films are a breath of fresh air. I think he has a great eye for composition, beauty and detail.
What is something about you that would surprise your students?
I refuse to go on rollercoasters. I am afraid that I will somehow fall to my death.
Years teaching: 16 years
University: Marmara University, Istanbul (Tesol, BA), Multilingual Education, M.A., Fairleigh Dickinson University, NJ
Hometown: Darmstadt, Germany
What is something about you that would surprise your students?
I grew up in the 80s, so I was really into British punk rock and had a pet rat that I named Chelsea!
What’s your favorite pastime when you are not working?
I always love to surround myself with water or trees, so whenever I can and weather permitting, I like to take little trips to the Hudson Valley area and spend time there with good friends. In the city, I love to see live shows of my favorite bands when they’re playing in town, check out some art exhibitions, stroll around farmer’s markets or flea markets, take pictures, dive into books and explore good eateries.
Is there a good language learning tip that you give your students?
Learning a foreign language is a long process; therefore, I believe that you have to love the language and its culture. If you’re dedicated, passionate and do whatever you can to immerse yourself in the language, the outcome will be evident. Don’t give up and have confidence!
What is your favorite part of teaching?
This might sound like a cliché, but as a teacher I get tremendous satisfaction when I see students improve and reach their goals. Hearing students outside of class use phrases or vocabulary that I taught them is priceless.
Years teaching: 5 years
University: BA in English from Vassar College and MA in TESOL from Teachers College, Columbia University
Hometown: Boston, Massachusetts
Have you ever lived outside of the United States?
I have lived and taught in both Vietnam and South Africa.
Is there a good language learning tip you give your students?
If you are not afraid to laugh at and with everything, including yourself, you will find that it is much easier to foster your English language identity.
Is there a hidden gem in New York that you would recommend to students?
The Chelsea galleries are the best and most affordable way to see art in the city. They’re always free and have openings for new exhibitions on Thursday evenings from 6-8pm where you can sample wine and mingle with other aesthetes.
Years teaching: 11 years
University: Brandeis University
Hometown: Newtown, PA
Have you ever lived outside of the United States?
Yes. I have lived in South Africa, Spain, Germany, and Italy.
Is there a good language learning tip you give your students?
Keep a journal, and write in it as often as possible.
What’s your favorite pastime when you are not working?
Songwriting. I play guitar, piano, and harmonica.
What is your favorite part of teaching?
Teaching teaches me everyday. In my classroom, I learn about the world, my students, and even myself.
Years teaching: I have been teaching English for 4 years.
University: I did my undergraduate degree in Spanish Literature at The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC and I did my masters in TESOL at The City College of New York.
Hometown: Newport, Rhode Island
What is your favorite thing about teaching?
My favorite thing about teaching is how much I learn from the diverse experiences of my students! Also I like to share my sense of humor and love of the language in the classroom.
A good language learning tip for your students?
Remember good things come to those who wait. Learning a language is hard work, but persistence will lead to the ultimate prize: communication and comfortability with the language.
Something about you that would surprise your students
My birthday is on Christmas, aka Madison Messiah.
2 weeks in Brooklyn and BSL – by Elisabeth Hechler, Germany
“Congratulations! You won the ‘Trip Poker’ prize draw!”
That is how my New York adventure started. Two weeks in New York including flights, a language course at BSL and accommodation in a host family – all for free! Unbelievable!
The first prize drawing of my life and then the top prize! When I had calmed down and stopped running and bouncing around in my flat cheering with joy I called my family and friends who couldn’t believe it either.
That was back in February and I finally took off in September – from Munich via Frankfurt to New York JFK. Although a little bit tired I was very excited and curious to meet my host mother and see the accommodation. I took the subway and a New Yorker kindly carried my suitcase up the stairs – I must have looked as if I’d collapse from exhaustion. My first impression was definitely very positive! When I arrived at my new home for the following two weeks I was welcomed by my lovely host mummy Sharon. She showed me around the house and the neighbourhood. Many families live here in Park Slope and there are many little shops (second hand, antiques and accessories), bars and restaurants. Prospect Park is also nearby.
After a restless first night (due to jet lag!) I took the subway to the school. It didn’t take longer than half an hour door to door. I was given a very friendly welcome at the school but the view from the window beat everything! The view from the 34th floor over Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan is just amazing. ‘Wow’, all new arrivals were struck with awe. After calming down we introduced ourselves. Chatting to each other in English seemed so much easier here than at home.
After a written and oral level test we were assigned to our classes. The level of English varied a lot among the students but there was a suitable class for everyone. During the break in the morning people gather in the kitchen for coffee and it is easy to start a conversation with students from other classes. People from France, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, Argentina, Netherlands, Japan, Germany – it is a motley mixture of nationalities and everyone laughs a lot. The school is small and has a family-run atmosphere. Richard, the school director, knows every student by name and the team is always helpful with questions regarding the school, accommodation or New York in general. We also had a lot of fun with the teachers during the lessons. Unfortunately, my English was a bit rusty since I had only needed it on a few occasions at work. It was therefore very beneficial that our teacher Gabi – who proclaims herself to be a grammar Nazi – jumpstarted my English again.
There were several activities after school such as excursions to Brooklyn Bridge, a visit to a museum, and a Broadway tour as well as a Broadway musical. I went out a lot with my classmates. We went together to MOMA, to Lady Liberty and Ellis Island, to the Top of the Rock, Central Park, Times Square, and the cinema. And of course, the girls went shopping together. Also at night you didn’t have to be on your own if you didn’t want to be. We went out to eat in Chinatown and had an Octoberfest beer at a bar in Brooklyn (sorry, I am from Munich and Bavarian beer is just the best in the world).
My time in New York went by incredibly fast, although I felt at the same time as if I had been there for months. The daily commute to the school and back home felt familiar very quickly and I was even able to help tourists find their way through the subway labyrinth. Two weeks in New York, however, were also very exhausting. You really need a break in Central Park to escape all the noise and hustle and bustle.
On my last evening I went to Brooklyn Bridge Park to take a final look at the skyline of Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge by night. We were all wistful when we said our good byes on the last day at school.
I had a fabulous time in New York. Many thanks to everyone!