1. To whom it may concern,
My name is Jarryd Calcinai. I was a student of Iman Al-Nazer for approximately a period of 3-4
months back in 2013 whilst I was a student at the Arabeya Language School in Mohandessin.
Throughout my time as her student, our lessons were predominantly focused on reading and
translating news articles from English into Arabic and vice-versa, and thus were conducted almost
exclusively in Modern Standard Arabic, though we also spoke in Egyptian Colloquial Arabic from time
to time.
During my year-long study at the school, and between the numerous teachers I had, Iman was
definitely one of if not the best that I had had, which was made all the more impressive at the time
as she was only relatively new to the profession. I believe what set Iman apart from most of the
other teachers was that she really seems to have a genuine interest and passion for her work, as well
as languages in general. Her interest in reading and literature also helped a lot when wanting to
expand my vocabulary or learn more about certain aspects of Egyptian, Islamic, or Arab culture.
Unlike some of the other teachers who had one eye on the student and another on the clock, Iman
really took the time to ensure that you understood what was being covered in class, and did so with
great fervour. Having a teacher who was so enthusiastic about helping her students improve their
Arabic ability really helped motivate and encourage me to be passionate about the language myself.
When I spoke with other students they all agreed in saying that she knew how to make you
interested and invested in the language.
My only complaint is that I wish she had came to the school earlier so that I could have had her as
my teacher from the beginning of my stay. She is a well-read and enthusiastic hard worker who
makes for an excellent teacher.
Jarryd Calcinai