Portuguese Language Institute

Rosely and the Portuguese language institute truly offer a fantastic learning experience! From the moment I started, I felt welcomed and encouraged. The classes are well-structured, engaging, and tailored to help students progress at a comfortable yet effective pace. What truly sets this institute apart is Rosely herself. She is an exceptional teacher – patient, knowledgeable, and incredibly passionate about the Portuguese language and culture. Rosely has a knack for making even the most challenging grammar concepts understandable. Her teaching style is dynamic, incorporating a variety of activities that keep you interested and actively participating. Whether it's through lively conversations, practical exercises, or insightful explanations, Rosely ensures that every student feels supported and motivated. Her enthusiasm is infectious, making each class something I genuinely looked forward to. Beyond her teaching skills, Rosely creates a warm and inclusive classroom environment. She fosters a sense of community among the students, which makes learning even more enjoyable. I've not only gained a solid foundation in the Portuguese language but also a deeper appreciation for its rich heritage, thanks to Rosely's insightful cultural tidbits shared throughout the lessons. If you're looking for a high-quality Portuguese language education with a truly dedicated and skilled teacher, look no further than this institute and the wonderful Rosely. I wholeheartedly recommend it!

Fantastic Portuguese class for those who want to learn the language and culture. It's a super relaxed and welcoming environment to all learners with a structure that's not overly strict and allows for plenty of time to practice plenty of conversation, reinforce what has been learned, while learning new something new every class. I find myself looking forward to going to class, it never feels like a chore! Rosely and the team are super easy to work with, attentive, and really try to help people develop based on their level of interest and effort!

If you want to study European Portuguese in a small classroom setting (in-person or virtual), I highly recommend Catarina's classes. She's really everything you'd want in a teacher. POLI isn't always as organized as it could be, but what really matters is the quality of the teaching and Catarina is the best.

Flexible and effective Brazilian Portuguese classes with an excellent instructor. I've been attending classes with the Portuguese Language Institute since May 2023 at the beginning and intermediate levels. I am happy with my experience and will continue to renew my courses with Rosely Saad. The classes are loosely structured – I notice that many have complained about this in other reviews. I think this is a benefit to the program. Rosely guides us through open conversation for the first third of the class, speaking about recent events, sometimes watching news broadcasts, sharing our plans for travel and work, etc. For the final two-thirds of the classroom, we tackle sections from various course texts that meet the student groups where they are. The Portuguese class is built to withstand students disappearing for weeks at a time due to travel or work commitments, while keeping everyone more or less 'on track'. You cannot do that with a more strict, structured course. It is a feature of this program that it is more fluid rather than strict; and, I'd also wager it's better exposure to Brazilian culture to be a bit more relaxed. It is because of the gradual rhythm of this course that I finally, after years and years of studying, have come to understand the subjective tense. Some of the reviews here mention the advertised course text being black and white copies of a course text. This is true – you won't receive a physical book. I am confused why anyone feels they need that when they have the pages required for in-class exercises. We are also given at-home exercises from time to time, and Rosely grades these thoroughly and in a timely manner. I also appreciate the regular social outings that Rosely and her team plan, to ensure we have opportunities to experience Portuguese and Brazilian culture and cuisine here in New York City. I have deeply enjoyed my time with POLI, and with Rosely Saad as my instructor for Brazilian Portuguese. It may take a few months to 'settle in' for those taking classes once a week like I do, but once it does, you can feel progress week by week. Thanks Rosely and Portuguese Language Institute!!

I would definitely recommend, I really enjoyed my experience taking Portuguese courses and have learned so much. The class sizes are small and very engaging. Every class had a good balance between learning new grammar, vocabulary, and practicing the concepts we learned. I was impressed with the amount of speaking, listening, and even writing practice we were able to do in each class. I had European Portuguese lessons with Professora Catarina. Professora Catarina is a wonderful teacher and always used relevant examples, she also is great at answering questions, clarifying and explaining concepts. Obrigada!

Very much disappointed with the institute. Over 8 lessons I had 3 different teachers, with barely any comms about the changes. Other students who have been attending classes for longer mentioned that it's the norm and they have seen many interns giving 'lessons' . Sadly, I don't recommend it

Rosely is an amazing instructor! She really fosters an environment to completely submerse yourself into Brazilian culture while taking her course. Her technique properly prepares you for conversational Portuguese for any planned trips to Brazil as well as preparing you for proper professional conversations related to business as well! Very well rounded and fun course 🙂