University of Rochester Medical CenterDepartment of PsychiatryRochester, NY 14642May, 1999David Curtis Tibetan Language Institute P.O. Box 64-675 Los Angeles, CA 90064
To Whom It May Concern:
I am fortunate to have participated as a student in Tibetan language classes taught by David Curtis, in both Levels I and II. This letter is for anyone considering engaging Mr. Curtis for such instruction.
Studying under Mr. Curtis for just one week advanced my understanding in the Tibetan language enormously. In addition to the qualities needed in any teacher (proficiency in subject matter, understanding of differences between individual students, patience), Mr. Curtis has a rare brilliance and clarity of communication that make his teaching extraordinary. Mr. Curtis intersperses his language teaching with interesting and amusing Dharma stories which, in addition to having their own inherent value, facilitate the absorption of the language material. He structures his classes with an effective balance of formal pedagogy, sharing of his own whimsical mnemonics and flexibility when questions are asked.
I daresay I speak for other members of our sangha as well as for myself when I say that anyone interested in the Tibetan language, particularly as a gateway to the precious Dharma, would be well advised to study with David Curtis.
Yours in the Dharma,
(signed)
Naomi Bloom, M.D.
Assistant Professor of Psychiatry