Argo, Real Estate Agent at Pema Real Estate
— B1 passed with 100% in Speaking —
“I started a German course two years ago in my country, it was overwhelming. Maybe my WHY wasn’t so strong and clear as now. But as I said before, I don’t like the old system of learning.
Since I run a company and have a lot of work to do, I am rarely free, but this program is very well structured, so that you can return and learn whenever you have free time.
With this program, I managed to pass the B1 Goethe exam ONLY with the A2 program from Manuel and with 100 points in speaking.”
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Susana, Software Engineer at Silver Atena GmbH
— B1 passed with 88%, B2 with 75% in Speaking —
“I took many conventional classes in my country and here in Germany, but these typical classes were full of grammar. I didn’t want more grammar classes, I needed more flexibility and results, so I wanted to try something different.
My goal was to just speak, understand more, be more confident with myself, and not be afraid to make mistakes.
With this program, so far, I passed my B1 and B2 exam. There is still a lot of room for improvement, but I definitely made a lot of progress since I started. “
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Migle, PMO Quality & Global Business Process Manager at Roche
— B1 passed with 93% in Speaking —
“I have tried 2 traditional language schools in Lucerne and in Zurich, however the learning pace was too slow as I wanted to improve my language skills faster.
With this program, I’ve learned grammar rules and new vocabulary required to become more fluent in German. I have also improved my speaking skills a lot. It’s amazing how I became confident to speak German in work meetings, write emails, read newspapers and speak in daily life..”
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Poulomi, Software Engineer working at Phoenix Contact Electronics GmbH
— B1 passed with 100% in Speaking —
“I tried a language school for my A2 in Dresden, Germany but I was not at all satisfied with it because I felt the input that I was getting during the classes were not fully comprehensible. Also we were not given enough practice material which I feel is very important for the beginners.
I was looking for a self paced program so that I can carry on with my other technical learnings as well. And the course with Herr Professor was the best fit.”
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Dimitra, Research Assistant at Access e.V..
— B2 passed with 91% in Speaking —
“Before, I did a course at university for a semester and I was also learning with duolingo. The traditional way of learning was boring for me. Filling typical exercises in traditional books or being physically in class was not what I wanted to do.
I was looking for something that would be interesting and fun, so that I do not lose my motivation for learning german.
With Herr Professor’s program I could effortlessly remember the rules, which helped me to realize directly whether something that I say is correct or not. The biggest difference was the fact that I did not need to ‘generate’ extra time for learning German.
Now, l feel much more comfortable speaking in German than before. Also, through the program I created this skill of connecting the meaning of a word or a grammar concept with something that I know, which helps me to learn faster.”
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Preston, Dentist at the Arkansas Health Center (USA)
— B1 passed with 97% in Speaking —
“A couple of years ago I took an online German course from a well-known language learning company. I knew when I finished it that I couldn’t really speak much of the language.
I was simply looking for a program that would help me speak the language well enough to communicate with Germans in everyday conversations.
I was intrigued by Herr Professor’s program because it sounded like something I could excel at. I liked the idea that each lesson consisted of several parts, and that you could take a little test at the end of each lesson to let you know if you needed to go back and review any of the parts. Also, the testimonials of the students struck me as genuine. (At my age, it’s pretty hard to pull the wool over my eyes).
Another big difference from previous programs was that if I had a question about anything at all, I could just join live Q&A calls on a weekly basis or I just emailed the professor, and I always received a reply (and a detailed answer) within a day. This ‘personal touch’ is something that is really unique.
I recently passed the Goethe B1 exam (including a 97 on the speaking section and a 100 on the writing section). I also have a lot more confidence speaking to people here in the US that are from Germany.”
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Khaksar, Software Developer at VarioTek GmbH (Germany)
— B1 passed with 85% in Speaking —
“My biggest challenge was time! As other professionals who have a job here, a long day of focused work then driving home, doing daily shopping, preparing the dinner and having a call with the family then there was no time remaining to attend a class and even no energy to continue with learning.
I was looking for a kind of program that I can adjust to with my professional work, but actually there was no time for a course to physically attend it or attend it online.
I wanted to speak with people and to understand them with basic topics, for example when going shopping or having some small talks with the landlord or seeking help in a store, but I also wanted to pass the B1 exam with a defined time interval.
I was looking for some programs, I found your program in my search criteria and signed up for free podcasts to see what is inside, when I heard the first podcast then I felt the difference and wanted to proceed with A1, I only wanted to give it a try and withdraw from it back if it didn’t fit because you were offering 100% money back guarantee – no question asked. I signed up for A1. When I saw the mnemonics thing and the way you explained how to learn new German words, I said this is the right program.”
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Firouz, Investment Professional at Kommunalkredit Austria AG in Wien (Austria)
— B1 passed with 100% in Speaking —
“Before settling in Austria, I actually did not study the language, so I was not exposed to the nuances and intricacies of learning this language in a language school.
I was lucky to come across Manuel´s program before I tried any traditional language courses. I find that in the traditional class learning could become quite routine, especially if the teacher is not so engaged. Also, with many students one may not always be accountable for individual progress. Manuel´s program keeps you accountable and he even has an episode to keep you motivated.
My biggest challenge in learning German as a working professional was (and, in fact still is) finding time as an adult to incorporate the lessons into my daily routine.
I passed the B1 official exam in Austria with 100% in speaking.”
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Adriano, System Engineer at ESA – European Space Agency in Darmstadt (Germany)
— B1 passed with 94% in Speaking —
“I was looking for a program where you have freedom to exercise when you can (but any single day of the working week at least!). I have 2 kids and a quite demanding job. I do not have much time and the time I have is not always in the same part of the day (morning, afternoon, evening). Manuel’s course allows you to study while driving, travelling in a plane, riding a bike, cooking etc. etc.
The simple way with which Manuel teaches you difficult grammar rules. The toothbrush is fantastic, you will never forget ADUSO and many others. There is another thing I did not hear from people doing other courses: the quantity of listening. I think that listening is one of the most useful means to learn, of course always respecting your level. You can use a lot of podcasts while doing other things.”
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Aryna, Portfolio Lead at F. Hoffmann-La Roche in Basel (Switzerland)
— B1 passed with 95% in Speaking —
“I did an A1 course 6 years ago, and started an A2, but had to drop out as I could not regularly join the classes due to other commitments
My biggest challenge was finding time for studying.
Despite living in Switzerland for 6 years, I found it hard to “absorb” German language in a passive way. Partly, this is because I work in an international company, where all interactions are in English. On the other hand, outside work the locals speak in a dialect, which is very different from High German taught in classes. This meant that I needed to dedicate time to study in a more purposeful way, which was not easy for me – work and two small kids are taking up all the time I have.
„From Zero to C1“ finally made it feel like I am learning the language in a more natural and fun way.
Manuel comes up with very logical explanations for difficult grammar topics. Personally, I am not great at learning by heart: endless tables of declination endings make me want to pull my hair out… Just as one example, after seeing Manuel’s strong/weak adjective ending lecture, I finally internalised this topic, stopped guessing and hoping for the best.
When no logical rule is possible, Manuel comes up with unbelievably catchy mnemonics or other little tricks. His Dative / Accusative preposition tunes are real earworm masterpieces – I will never be able to get them out my head even if I wanted.”
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Saipriya, Consultant at Cisco in Karlsruhe (Germany)
— B1 passed with 100% in Speaking —
“I learnt A1 on my own (required for my German Visa) in India 4 year ago. After that I didn’t continue learning/practicing.
I was looking for a program, with which I can speak German fluently. Also, which could fit my current work schedule.
With „From Zero to C1“ I gained confidence while speaking.
I work in an environment where people switch to English when someone doesn’t know German. But after this program, I ask them to continue in German, as now I can both understand and speak.”
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Sid, Art Director at Scholz and Friends in Hamburg (Germany)
— B1 passed with 100% in Speaking —
“I took part in four different German language courses, private and also the ones from VHS.
The biggest challenge was the classic problem of balancing a 9-6 work week with evening classes. Working in advertising and having to be consistent in attending German classes is just not possible.
I knew what did not work out for me and was looking for options that lead away from the ‘conventional’ learning methods.
With „From Zero to C1“ I got my B1 but most importantly the confidence to use the language little by little.”
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Hari, Senior SAP Basis Consultant at Infineon Technologies AG in München (Germany)
— B1 passed with 100% in Speaking —
“Before, I was learning by myself through some youtube channels, Apps etc.
I am normally quite busy with my work schedule and going for German classes was beyond my visibility.
I wanted to self-learn, but at the same time I wanted an effective program where it can improve my efficiency. Wanted the program to be flexible based on my availability.
With „From Zero to C1“ I gained confidence in speaking and I could clear my B1 exam which was my target. I am feeling confident and I can speak to my colleagues without any mental block now.”
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Nhung, Data Scientist at Bosch Center for AI in Karlsruhe (Germany)
— B1 passed with 97% in Speaking —
“Before I had tried one classical course at a language school for 1 month and then did not have time to continue due to my full-time work. Then I switched to an online course in Lingoda for some months but then I decided to discontinue because I did not see the progress of myself. The course was too grammatical-focused and the conversation was a bit boring for me.
I was looking for a course which I could learn to improve my speaking during my commuting time, during my walk with my baby and also other idle time.
After „From Zero to C1“ I could have simple conversations for my daily life, i.e. chatting a bit with the friends of my daughter, talking with her teachers during the parent meeting, making appointments and also a bit of chit-chat with my German colleagues.”
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Sajida Ph.D., Scientist at Preclinics GmbH in Potsdam (Germany)
— B2 passed with 100% in Speaking —
“I just did a short A1 course in Pakistan before coming to Germany and also didn’t complete that one. After coming to Germany I just learned a little bit by talking to people. The real challenge I faced was when I started my job after completing my Ph.D. where I had a setback of not knowing German which resulted in lack of communication or even sometimes mis-communication.
Lack of time was the main issue. I just had 7 weeks to prepare for my B1 exam and later 8 weeks for the B2 exam, and this all I had to do with full-time work and family life.
With “From Zero to C1” I can now communicate much better at work which was one of the problems which I wanted to solve. This communication does not just include verbal communication but also written ones. I write now my emails in German to communicate with different ’’ Behörde’’ here in Germany.
Above all, I passed my B1 and B2 exams and that too in 5 months in total which was actually unbelievable for me to achieve.”
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Tayo, Compliance Analyst at Fidor Bank AG in Berlin (Germany)
— B1 passed with 96% in Speaking —
“I attended two different traditional schools. I did not like their method of teaching, I hardly understood the teachers, also I did not have time to attend the classes regularly. I also subscribed to two different learning apps but since they were not structured, it was difficult to make significant progress.
I was missing a lot of classes because of time. I work full time and finding the time was difficult.
The first time I saw a clear result was when I went to the foreign office to apply for my permanent residence(PR). To get a PR, proof of B1 is required but I did not have this. I ended up speaking German with my case-worker, and he decided to give me my PR based on the German I spoke with him.
Also, my colleagues that I could not speak with for years complimented how my German had improved within months of Herr Professor.”
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Alexey, Director of Growth Europe at Unibrands in Berlin (Germany)
— B2 passed with 87% in Speaking —
“I’ve studied German in Goethe in Moscow (2004 from A1 till B1) and then had 0 practice till I moved to Berlin in 2015. I had a few classes here and there, tried Goethe again, but didn’t find what I needed: a structured approach that entitles everything and binds all together -> active listening, reading, writing and speaking.
My challenge was finding time for 3×1.5 hours of lessons a week + doing homework. I’m constantly traveling for work and I need flexibility.
I had 2 goals: pass the B2 Certificate exam and get fluent in German, so that I could express myself in any life situation.
The big difference between “From Zero to C1” and other programs is that the rules of language I struggled with before (cases, adjective endings, etc.) were explained in a very easy-to-understand manner. I felt like I’ve been wasting time before going to standard German classes.”
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Riyas, Technical Consultant atSEG Automotive Germany GmbH in Stuttgart (Germany)
— B2 passed with 100% in Speaking —
“The biggest challenge was to find the right course for me. I liked the comfort provided by the course in my office but I was not making progress the way I expected. I was searching for a course which would improve my confidence in speaking German.
The classroom training was more book-oriented. I don’t have anything against that approach but I just feel it doesn’t suit me. Even after many classes I was finding it difficult to understand the basics of Akkusativ and Dativ.
Now after doing many courses with Herr Professor, I cannot imagine myself in a classroom training which focuses only on a book.
Now I am able to write error-free (almost) Emails in my office. I can attend calls in German and clearly communicate and understand what is being spoken in the call. I have conversations with my colleagues in German. My work meetings are now in German. I manage to explain almost everything in German. When it gets really complicated, I switch to English for a short while and then I switch back to Deutsch.”
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Elena, Project Manager at FLSmidth Wiesbaden GmbH in Wiesbaden (Germany)
— B1 passed with 87% in Speaking —
“I needed a program, which would be oriented on the concise milestones in the grammar and direct examples of “how people say it”. As the more you get, the better you start to feel, how it should be said or written.
First, the approach of “From Zero to C1” is great. Two + podcast interviews in the beginning, listening to which you work your own way to the understanding. Then the vocabulary packages are at hand so you do not have to look for them elsewhere. My favorite though is the fluency stress test.
I passed the B1 exam with good results in 1 year of study. And as promised by Manuel: one may go to the exam after his A2 course. I confirm:). I did it at lesson 5 of B1.”
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Aravind, Embedded System Software Developer for Robotic Vision systems at Siemens Logistics in Konstanz (Germany)
— B2 passed with 91% in Speaking —
“Learning German grammar is challenging, especially adjective endings, genitive etc. Also the double meaning of certain words is really challenging (eg : gehören- belong,hear).
At first when I saw the advertisement of the program “From Zero to C1” I was skeptical about this course as I do not have direct contact with the Teacher. But my belief changed once I started hearing the podcasts. It is the part which evoked my interest to learn German through this program. It is interesting to hear actual life situations of other students.
Now, I can express my ideas and thoughts in German. The “language barrier” problem is solved. I could have a half an hour phone call with the official German authorities who speak only in German like Arbeitsagentur.
I could express myself efficiently during several interviews for Software Developer jobs that were completely in German. Even after completing A2 level in this course, I could manage German job interviews.”
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Arto, Global Business Process Manager EMEA at Roche in Switzerland
— B1 passed with 90% in Speaking —
“I tried a traditional course before taking this course. The problem for me was that I did not have time to participate in those traditional courses in a regular manner. The problem was that if I missed a class I could not go back to teaching. Also Grammar was explained in a hard way that I got lost which affected my motivation.
I was looking for an efficient course which simplifies complex grammar and puts basic german under one umbrella. I was enrolling myself first to Herr professors A2 course and then to B1 course.
This course is systematic and simplifies tricky german so I was finally able to learn things in a quick way. I was able to study whenever I wanted to study so I was not tied to place and time anymore.
I got a good backbone to continue german learning at a more advanced level. I’m confident with grammar topics at my level and I’m confident to speak German when needed.”
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Marco, Supply Chain Planner at 3M in Bern (Switzerland)
— B2 passed with 90% in Speaking —
“I tried to start on my own, for fun, and I never wanted to enroll in a school because lessons are not very flexible. I didn’t have time for that.
But learning German alone is a big burden. Grammar books are overwhelming and I felt that something was missing: a structured course. But at the same time I didn’t have the time to follow the rigid schedule of a school.
I needed something I could learn during my long hours of commuting to the office, and training at the gym. Schools after work were not an option.
HerrProfessor’s Course filled the gap.
I could quickly and effectively internalize German rules with PDFs of 7-8 pages with simple and effective examples. And around them many other tools like podcasts, flashcards, Fluency-tests , 2 mins exercises, FB community amazingly helped me in the learning process.
I learned German, but I also learned the method and I found out why the traditional ways (focus on Grammar rules, infinite lists of verbs and words without context, etc.) are not effective when learning a language.
My german improved quickly, I noticed people stopped switching to English when speaking with me: I could understand them and they could understand me. The conversation was finally flowing. I also passed the B2-Goethe Exam, which is highly recognized in Universities, working environments, schools.”
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Lukasz, Delivery Manager at UBS in Zürich (Switzerland)
— B1 passed with 90% in Speaking —
“I tried attending regular classes which I had to quit due to insufficient time. I tried then also 1:1 skype lessons with a teacher but found them chaotic and quickly got demotivated.
I was looking for a program that would allow me to make progress regardless of focusing my time on work and family. The biggest challenge for me was to find some time for learning in my busy schedule.
Your program allowed me to study at my own pace and in my own time, using every little pieces of time that I had (like commuting time, exercise time). My wife and I, we both work 100%. We also have two kids. This leaves really little time for learning a new language. It helped that most of your program tasks you can do whenever and wherever I wanted.
I passed the official B1 Goethe exam and I am able to communicate in day to day situations (get a car repaired, buy/sell something, basic conversations at work). I am at the stage where I have basic command of language and now can dive into vocabulary and phrases to enrich the way I speak.”
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Chloe, Ph.D. student in Experimental Particle Physics at the University of Zurich (Switzerland)
— B1 passed with 100% in Speaking —
“When I moved to Switzerland I started trying to learn German with Duolingo, and classes offered by the university.
It never seemed like I was making consistent progress, especially with my confidence in speaking. The university classes were also only for a few weeks at a time, and with my work travel it was hard to attend them all. My work colleagues all speak English to each other, so there wasn’t much opportunity in daily life to practise German.
I was looking for a structured program that I could fit into my life.
Eventually I wanted to take a B1 exam so I could apply for my permanent residence permit when the time came around. I also wanted to improve my confidence with the language, to feel more capable to communicate in my daily life.
The focus on listening in your program “From Zero to C1” was a revelation to me, especially through listening to another learner at my level.
With “From Zero to C1” quite early on I found that my confidence had increased. Having brief exchanges in German in my daily life no longer filled me with terror. I feel I have a solid foundation in grammar and vocabulary, which recently helped me finish reading my first book in German, something I thought was still many years away.
A few weeks ago I was able to pass my official B1 TELC exam with a 100% score in Speaking and 100% in writing..”
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Anup, Senior Consultant at Deloitte Consulting GmbH in Stuttgart (Germany)
— B1 passed with 95% in Speaking —
“I had joined traditional language courses, which also work but need a specific time slot every week for example joining classes two or three times a week for 2.5 hours each. Additionally, not all teachers had good experience in communicating learning strategies.
I always missed an effective learning strategy, I was not able to recall all the topics and points discussed in the class, was not able to always spend one fixed slot for classroom training and I was terrible when it came to writing in German, especially these articles and adjective endings.
The biggest advantage we have as “From Zero to C1” students is that we can learn German at any time of the day. I basically utilized my travel time to the office, lunch breaks, travel time back home and whenever I had some extra breaks. It was not a fixed routine, but more flexible and easier to manage without any stress.
The immediate benefit from your program was that I was able to speak fluently and confidently. Of course, I made mistakes but that did not stop me from speaking German. Also, my vocabulary improved a lot only through the free podcast course.
The material of the “From Zero to C1” course was the top resource that helped me to improve and made my basics strong and I think that was the key to a successful German B1 exam.”
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Edwin, Computer Programmer at Sulzer GmbH in München (Germany)
— B1 passed with 89% in Speaking —
“I finished up to level A2 during a normal German course that I attended twice a week after work for 3 hours. This excludes my travel time to the German school and back. 2 nights a week I had to attend the course and 2 other nights I had to do homework so I basically had no free time for myself during the week. I really disliked sitting in a classroom when the weather was nice and sunny outside.
After each lesson I thought that I could have taught it to myself over the internet in 15 minutes. So I always thought I was not using my time efficiently.
With Herr Professor’s program, although you are learning the same things as in a normal German school it is much more effective. Studying at your own pace is what I really like, I am very motivated so I listened to a lot of podcasts every day. But if you want to go at a slower pace that is also fine. No school offers you the opportunity to really study at your own pace.
If I studied for 3 hours with this program I felt I learned/practiced material worth 3 hours of effort. It is much better value for the time you put in. The flexibility of listening to the podcasts at any available time really suits my lifestyle. I am a computer programmer and many programs were written while listening to a Herr Professor podcast.
Although I finished my German level A2 course at a German school I redid this course with Herr Professor’s program and it was totally worth it. Some things I definitely knew from the German school, but there were many new things I learned with this program or more importantly, actually understood for the first time.
Getting my B1 certificate is an important stepping stone for me. But I went from very basic conversations in German to a level where I discuss all my work topics in German, attend meetings in German and not having to translate every document or e-mail I read.”
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Harish, Senior Software Engineer at AMVS Global Gmbh in München (Germany)
— B1 passed with 92,5% in Speaking —
“Initially the main challenge was the timing, as the only possible slot is after office hours so I had to hurry to the class after a complete busy day. As usual there is no time after the class to practice stuff.
Secondly, the initial classes were completely in German, and as I don’t know the basics it self, it was a bit difficult at that time.
Main goal was to communicate in the daily life and not to depend on others for the simple things. Starting from the super markets till the government offices, communication at least basic was important.
I found your daily Verb-Juggling podcast and that was the starting point for choosing your program “From Zero to C1”.
In your program I’m having the facility to revise the lessons as many times as required and no need to think of what others will think if I ask more questions in the classroom.
I’m effectively utilizing my 2 hour travel time (to and from work) thus reducing the time spent for practicing at home, and of course giving valuable time to family.
As one of the results going through your program, a few weeks ago I got my B1 certificate.”
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Leigh, Cultural Developer in the Corporate HR department in München (Germany)
— B1 passed with 94% in Speaking —
“Before, I had a German teacher come into my workplace which was organised by my employer. The challenge was the lessons were all in German, and at that level all it was to me was just noise and it was quite frustrating.
I was originally looking to take 4 weeks off work and do an intensive course. But I’d procrastinated so much about it as I had 6 week of leave in a year, and I was reluctant to use 4 of them learning German when I was living in Europe! I wanted to use my leave to travel! At that stage also I had no idea of the options of online learning. I just happened to stumble across Herr Professor’s free daily podcast.
With your program for the first time I actually could comprehend the concept of Dativ. This was big for me as I’d researched online and asked my teacher who came into my class many many times. But I just could not understand the concept of it, nor it’s rules etc.
In your program things were explained simple and I could learn while commuting, training in the gym, cooking up at home. And what was even better, was that I could actually go back over content time and time again, whereas with my teacher, once the lesson was over I had to re-interpret it myself which can be easily misunderstood. With the podcasts, I just replay them!
Now, I can have a normal conversation with a local about normal everyday topics. Like purchasing something, what I did on the weekend or discussing my travel adventures. But I can now translate most content from the TV for international friends when they come over, or I can read most letters that I am sent in the mail, and 90% of advertisements I can read in the city or in the trains.
A few weeks ago I passed my official B1 GOETHE exam with a 94% score in Speaking.”
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Ranjiv, IT Specialist working at Accenture in Zürich (Switzerland)
— B1 passed with 91% in Speaking —
“I started learning initially with Duolingo and then joined a traditional German language center. I had to travel to the center and usually get tired after work. Also the wavelength didn‘t match with other students,so,many times it was either boring or lacked speed and depth. I used to wait for the class to finish so that I can go home.
The biggest challenge was lack of structured learning. I always felt I learned something but never felt progressed. I lacked confidence and felt less competent.
Also time management with learning, especially going to the learning center and then doing homework, was quite challenging.I was looking for a program which is structured and takes me from point A to point B. I wanted to leave the treadmill and conquer some real distance.
Your 5 step approach to learning each module really makes a big difference. Also it didn‘t take a lot of personal time. I enjoy my walks, gym, my commuting time learning German. It gave me a sense of achievement without any guilt of missing my other important tasks. Also since the teaching is fully in English, it kept holding my interest in it.
I‘m able to converse with my colleagues and also able to communicate with my landlord and in shops etc. I‘m also able to read and understand any official communication that I receive without translation.
A few weeks ago I passed my official B1 TELC exam with a 91% score in Speaking and 100% in Writing.”
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Noaman, IT Business Analyst working as Associate Director at UBS in Zürich (Switzerland)
— A2 passed with 100% in Speaking —
“In the past (few years back) I did attend German classes. Although they’d helped me build a foundation, I lost motivation after sometime. I was on the lookout for something that would allow me to work at my own pace and convenience.
What makes “From Zero to C1” stand out is its digital, cross-platform format, which allows me to go through the material at my own convenience and pace.
The podcasts helped me the most in achieving fluency, without a doubt. Especially when Manuel asks “How do you say…” in your “Fluency Stress Tests” for example, this invites the listener to answer and if it is correct, then it reinforces their own understanding, otherwise you can still hear Manuel explain the answer.
So far I’ve learned how to use many new verbs, construct sentences, understand when and why to use definite and indefinite articles.
A few weeks ago I passed my official A2 Goethe exam with a 100% score in Speaking and 97% in writing.”
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Gianluca, Data System Manager at ESA/ESOC in Darmstadt (Germany)
— B1 passed with 96% in Speaking —
“I found that the traditional courses are a bit stressful because you often have time constraints, e.g. to follow the lessons or to make homework, and there is the risk to accumulate gaps if you cannot attend the lessons regularly, and this can happen if you are a busy professional. On the other hand, the multimedia courses that I tried, e.g. on the PC, are “too cold and aseptic” and you do not have the feeling that you are really learning a new language. Therefore, I was looking for something that could give me more feedback about the progresses and that could fit better with my lifestyle.
With your program, I was able to learn German reducing a lot of stress, and actually, I developed the “pleasure” of making progress.
I saw the main difference with the usage of podcasts, both with the ones of the „Verb Juggling” and with the ones of the lessons from “From Zero to C1”. They gave me the feeling that I was understanding German.
Now I have less „fear“ to use German in my daily life, e.g. make a phone call, write letters/emails, even go shopping. I sold my car and bought a new one and I spoke only in German.
A few weeks ago I passed my official B1 TELC exam with a 96% score in Speaking.”
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Matt, Senior Manager at AMD in München (Germany)
— B2 passed just learning till B1 Module —
“Before, I had tried just about everything. Classes with Goethe and Berlitz, Duolingo, Lingq, and just working within the culture. All of those methods can help, but I never really clicked with any of them.
My biggest challenge has always been fear. Blinding fear of making a giant mistake that, for example, might cause the heating oil truck to dump 3000 liters of oil into the wrong basement (which doesn’t have a tank). Or calling Vodafone or Telekom, asking them to upgrade your service and finding that they understood you to mean “cancel the service” and you’re out of internet for 4 months. Or filling out the wrong form in the wrong way, mistaking one giant word for another. The list can go on and on.
I’ve meandered through German for 10 years, and this is the first program that actually got me to a demonstrable achievement level. The structure of the program (15 lessons with 15 topics which cover the grammar bones of whole language) really helped me break through the grammar hurdles which had stymied me for some time.
I passed the B2 exam and I only studied in depth your B1 material, but because that material was so comprehensive, I went ahead and threw myself at the B2 exam just to see how it would go. My passing grade wasn’t terribly impressive, but considering that I had done no B2 work at all, just passing was a fantastic result.”
Click here to read the full story.
Pradnya, Doctor working as Senior Manager for Medical Affairs at Fresenius Medical Care in Germany
— B1 passed with 100% in Speaking —
“I had joined two traditional language schools, at 2 different time points. But I would spend almost an hour just getting there and coming back and thus spend nearly 2.5 hours or more for a 90 minute lesson. That would be very tiring.
A big challenge was making time for going to the lessons after a long day at work. I often felt like doing my homework straight after coming from my lesson but I would be too tired as I start my day really early in the morning.
I was looking for something flexible which I could do at my own pace and convenience without investing time in commuting to get to the school.
My goal was to be able to converse with colleagues or other German-speaking people one comes across in the daily life in Germany (eg, in shops, restaurants, banks, etc) and also understand what they say. In addition, I needed to obtain B1 level certificate for my permanent residence permit.
The big difference between other programs and „From Zero to C1“ is that the rules of the language are explained in an easy-to-understand and easy-to-remember manner and I could study at my own pace and at my convenience. In my experience, there are always some students in the classroom who slow down the speed of the class and that is not nice. Also, the teachers only explain in German and some concepts may remain unclear in that practice. For instance, the adjective endings are explained in such an easy and effective manner in this program while it is a big complicated mess in the traditional method. Also, it is very easy to re-visit any topic of interest because you only have to play that lecture and that is a reassuring feeling.
I just followed the instructions given in the program. They are absolutely perfect and work 100%. As a result I passed my official B1 Goethe exam with an incredible 100% score in speaking.”
Click here to read the full story.
Prabha, Sr. Software Developer working at Accenture in Frankfurt (Germany)
— B2 passed 4 months after passing B1 with 92% in Speaking —
“Before joining “From Zero to C1”, I had attended classroom training. However, with a job it was difficult to spend time and energy on learning but it was mandatory that I learn and speak German to continue with my job. Learning German at this age itself is a big challenge, be it is speaking, writing or understanding.
I was looking for a program which is convenient for me, where I can learn as per my time preference. No matter if I am on vacation or at the office or at home.
The big difference between Herr Professor and other programs or rather the way I was learning is the structure of the program. Both grammar and vocabulary were well taken care of and going hand in hand. However, with other programs I would say either it is grammar 1st or vocabulary 1st.
With “From Zero to C1” so far I have achieved self confidence in speaking. Now I am participating in German discussions, trying to talk to clients and teammates in German, of course not fluently, but I am sure in few months I can achieve that too. And of course, I achieved my first milestone, passing the official B1 Goethe exam.
Just 4 months later I even tried the B2 exam since my situation required a B2 certificate and I was able to pass it as well.”
Click here to read the full story.
Anna, Statistician working in the Pharma Industry in Basel (Switzerland)
— C1 passed with 88% in Speaking, B2 passed with 96% in Speaking —
“Before I had tried classes at the local VHS (huge classes and painfully slow), and lessons with a private teacher (really only conversation) but I got stuck at an A2-B1 level for years and couldn’t seem to progress.
In “From Zero to C1” I really liked being able to go through the modules and see/feel that I was making progress with each step. Rather than just showing up for a class for months on end and not really feeling like I was learning anything.
I just went through the A2 and B1 Module of the program and have passed the B2 exam with a grade of “good”, which has been a goal of mine for a long time.
I feel that I can use German in my day to day life outside of work (including for example, at the doctor or dentist). I may not speak like a native speaker, but I can understand and be understood.”
Click here to read the full story.
Mauricio, Engineer with an MBA working as Corporate Controller at Zalando in Berlin (Germany)
— B1 passed with 97% in Speaking —
“My German was basically non-existent when I arrived here. I tried the usual group classes offered at my University in Germany. Before arriving in Germany, I tried Duolingo for two months but that didn’t help at all. I thought that I would already be speaking in a few months but that was not the case.
The biggest shock I had was at the Auslaenderbehoerde. This is when I realized I needed to learn German fast. I had a student residency permit and I needed to get the Familienzusammenführung Visa (nice German word by the way) for my wife and they were requesting a document which was nearly impossible for me to get in short notice and a stupid requisite from my perspective.
I found your way of explaining grammar easy to understand. I find the German language super tricky and I was struggling to understand and apply all its rules. I think you have created a powerful yet simple method. For example, I only started to really understand the German articles and declensions when you explained it to me. Same applies for the passive voice.
I think I have now a strong grasp of the German language even though I still don’t have the vocabulary I wish to have and still make mistakes, of course. So, this strong basis allows me to keep learning every day. Sometimes I even correct my German friends :).
A few weeks ago I passed my official B1 TELC exam nearly perfect.”
Click here to read the full story.
Roger, Business Consultant living in Luzern (Switzerland)
— B1 passed with 95% in Speaking —
“I’ve now lived in Luzern for 8 happy years but like so many international arrivals have found learning German a particular challenge. I say particular because language learning comes to me easily; German is my sixth language, after English, French, Italian, Spanish and even Esperanto.
But all said and done, I’ve found learning German tricky. It’s not just a question of lacking the time, energy or patience to do it in the context of a full life here but also for structural reasons, by which I mean: German vs Swiss German; going to class late in the day after work or at weekends exhausted with no time for family; sharing classes with mixed ability students; skipping classes due to being overseas on business or holiday; paying inexpensive courses that turn out to cost a fortune in the long run as the various levels (A1-C1) are stretched in time to absurdity by schools raking it in; hitting limits with the DIY learning apps and packages out there. The reasons (and excuses) are endless and dare I say, valid. Then I discovered Manuel Macias Martin’s: “Herr Professor”.
An engineer by trade, Manuel breaks each language level (AI/A2/B1) into 15 lessons like an engineer taking a chainsaw to fussy linguists. Awesome.
Each lesson is distilled in c.3 pdf pages for you to download. It’s quick, clear and easy to read. Big tick.
Backing it are 20-30 minutes podcasts between him and a student that goes through the lessons’ key learning grammar and vocabulary. Listen on the way to work whilst reading the pdf.
Tap into memrise for free and each lesson’s grammar and vocabulary are pre-loaded to accelerate your learning; plug and play at will.
You’ve just skipped 4/5ths of all that time and money wasted in a classroom.
What a relief.“
My German has rocketed in the last 2 months. B2 is on the near horizon.
Can’t recommend Manuel enough”
Dan, Computer Science Student at RWTH Aachen (Germany)
— TDN5 (C1) passed with 100% —
“My goal was to reach level B2-C1 in all four skills (reading, listening, writing, speaking) in 2 years starting from scratch.
“From Zero to C1” was exactly what I was looking for. Transparent structure and a clear promise: 45 lectures to B1, another 15 to B2, another 15 to C1.
I just went through the modules A1/A2/B1 and B2 and I’ve achieved the level of confidence and comprehension I could have never foreseen, let alone in two years’ learning time. In most situations I feel just as comfortable with German as I do with English, even though I have been learning the latter for more than 12 years now.
I’ve also passed the official TestDaF exam with the best score in all four parts (5555), so I reached TDN5, compatible with a C1.2 (advanced C1 level) in less than 2 years.”
Click here to read the full story.
Nahuel, EMEA Marketing Lead at Microsoft in Munich (Germany)
— B1 passed with 95% in Speaking —
“Before starting “From Zero to C1” I tried several other platforms (and online instructors), as well as software based learning such as Rosetta Stone.
I personally struggle to find time and a consistent learning routine. I travel often for work internationally and It is hard to establish a fix date/time to sit down and learn.
“From Zero to C1” gave me the flexibility that I needed. The structure stood out as a key factor but also the integration of different learning mechanisms was a highlight for me. I really enjoy the Memrise Packages and Podcasts. It is certainly an end to end learning solution.
Last month I passed my official B1 Goethe exam and ended up with a 95% score in the speaking part.”
Click here to read the full story.
Jordi, IT Professional working as Director Domain Architecture at ADIDAS in Nürnberg (Germany)
— B1 passed with 96% in Speaking —
“I mostly tried traditional classroom based courses before, like the ones offered by VHS in Germany. On the one hand, it was always a challenge to find a course with the right schedule for me and on the other hand it was too slow as it was just one or two sessions per week.
My biggest challenge was being able to learn at my own speed and with great flexibility in terms of schedule. I am fine investing 8-10 hours a week, but I cannot commit to fixed schedules. So I was looking for something very flexible in terms of schedule and very structured, so that one could clearly see progress.
The big difference between „From Zero to C1“ and other programs was the clear structure of the levels and modules and the sense of accomplishment at the end of each module. This is something I didn’t find in any previous training. The scope in terms of grammar and vocabulary are very well set at the beginning of each module and the student can validate progress at the end of the module with the fluency test. This way of working really boosts morale.
My first goal was to achieve B1 level and pass the official Goethe exam and then progress towards higher levels of fluency. After going through the A2 and B1 Module I took the official B1 Goethe exam. I passed the B1 exam with a 96% score in the speaking part! I can now as well have everyday conversations and understand the context of different types of communication.”
Click here to read the full story.
Simone, Engineer working as Project Manager support at EUMETSAT in Darmstadt (Germany)
— B1 passed with 98,5% in Speaking —
“When I arrived in Germany, I started with the traditional 1:1 course. The only possibility was after the work but as you can imagine I was really tired and hence it was very difficult to focus on the lesson.
I still remember the first day I stepped in with some friends into a sauna. Everything was in German and I was not even able to find the way out! “Ausgang” does not mean anything to me!
I was looking for something flexible, so that I can easily manage my time, and interact in a way I can access the content everywhere, especially during my travels.
I was surprised to discover a really structured course with “From Zero to C1”, accessible from different platforms, and the podcasts… Well, those are really the added value to your course. I can download them and listen to them whenever and however I want.
Now, I am no longer afraid to speak with people and more importantly all of my friends told me that my German is “really good”.
A few weeks ago I passed my official B1 Telc exam with a 98,5% score in Speaking and 100% in writing.”
Click here to read the full story.
Luke, Digital Strategist living in Luzern (Switzerland)
— A2 passed with 97% in Speaking —
“I’ve gone through the first level of Rosetta Stone German but could never find a rhythm or motivation to keep going. I really needed something that provided a structured curriculum, held me accountable, and could be flexible enough to work in my schedule. I don’t have a typical 9-5 job and needed to be able to organize it in a way that fit into my life.
I went through the A1 Module and half of the A2 Module of Manuel’s program and I feel like I have a much much better understanding now of grammar and sentence structure. I’m the kind of person who wants to understand the underlying structure of a language in order to feel comfortable with it. I’m not as intimidated as I was before.
Last week I passed my official A2 Telc exam with “sehr gut”.”
Click here to read the full story.
Stephanie, Corporate Communications Manager living in Luzern (Switzerland)
— B1 passed with 90% in Speaking —
“I feel much more confident in my daily life in Switzerland. I understand so much more and feel comfortable that I can communicate in everyday situations. There have been several situations where I had to have entire conversations in German and was able to understand almost everything.
After going through the A2 and B1 Module in 10 months I passed my official B1 Goethe exam and ended up with 90% or higher in every portion of the exam.”
Click here to read the full story.
