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Young students in Tessa International School's nursery school program engage in their Spanish immersion class.

Can My Child Handle Two Languages? Yes—and Here’s Why It’s Great for Them

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Raising a bilingual child is an inspiring journey that combines both excitement and thoughtful considerations. “Will early bilingualism slow down their speech? Will they mix up the languages and get confused?” These common questions come from your care and love. 

Fortunately, supported by decades of research, the encouraging news is this: your child is naturally equipped to acquire more than one language from an early age, and with the right environment, that ability blossoms with ease and excitement. Keep reading to learn why early bilingualism is a remarkable gift that nurtures your child’s long-term development.

Our Spanish Nursery teacher guides toddlers in language learning.

Learning a second language earlier and for a longer period is most likely to lead to proficiency.

Why Young Brains Thrive on Bilingualism (or Multilingualism)

Natural Language Learners

Early childhood is a prime period when children’s brains are especially receptive to learning languages. Research indicates that infants as early as 20 months can recognize and differentiate between two languages for efficient comprehension. This innate ability to absorb the sounds, patterns, and grammatical structures of multiple languages happens effortlessly during the early years, but it gradually diminishes as children grow older. A study from cognitive scientists at MIT shows that learners who begin acquiring a second language after the age of 10 are less likely to reach native-like proficiency. This reinforces the importance of beginning bilingual education as early as possible. 

Cognitive Advantages

Children exposed to two languages from an early age often show enhanced cognitive flexibility and executive functioning. Skills such as attention control, problem-solving, and task switching develop through the brain’s ongoing management of multiple linguistic systems. More importantly, these benefits don’t disappear with age, they continue to support academic performance and real-world functioning well into adulthood.

Language Confusions or Delays? No! 

Numerous research has debunked this common misconception that learning two languages might lead to confusion or delay. In fact, children achieve the same milestones in language development at a similar pace as monolingual children, provided they receive consistent and meaningful exposure to both languages. 

Two French Track toddlers actively engage in bilingual learning.

Early exposure to another language ignites children’s learning.

The Long-Term Benefits of Bilingualism

Academic Achievement

Bilingualism enhances brain function in ways that promote academic success. The analytical and reasoning skills fostered by dual-language learning contribute to higher performance, especially in reading comprehension and mathematical problem-solving.

Enhanced Communication Skills

Bilingual individuals often develop superior communication skills, including the ability to interpret non-verbal cues and adapt language use based on context. These skills are invaluable in both personal and professional settings. 

Cultural Awareness

Exposure to more than one language also means exposure to more than one culture. Bilingual children are more likely to appreciate cultural diversity, show empathy, and engage with others from different backgrounds. In today’s interconnected world, these traits are as essential as academic success. Read more about how to cultivate global awareness here. 

Future Opportunities

The professional advantages of bilingualism are clear. A 2019 U.S. employer survey revealed that 9 out of 10 companies rely on employees who speak languages other than English. Over half reported that the demand for bilingual and multilingual professionals would rise significantly within the next five years, particularly in sectors related to business development and global expansion.

How Tessa International School’s Nursery Program Foster Bilingualism

At Tessa International School, we offer world-class bilingual education for ages 2-10, offering immersion tracks in French, Spanish, and Mandarin. Unlike other daycare programs, our nursery program is uniquely designed to introduce a second language through joyful, play-based learning that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and confidence. 

  • A Bilingual Program: As highlighted above, the earlier children start with a second language, the more naturally they acquire it. Our nursery students benefit from daily exposure to two languages in meaningful contexts, helping them grow into confident communicators and culturally aware individuals.
  • A World-Class Education: Guided by the framework of the International Baccalaureate (IB), our curriculum promotes inquiry-based learning. Our “roadmap” allows for exploration and flexibility, empowering even our youngest learners to follow their curiosity, take initiative, and begin developing the habits of lifelong learning. 
  • A Play-Based Curriculum: Play is more than just fun—it’s a vital part of how young children learn and make sense of the world. Our curriculum blends purposeful activities with space for free exploration, supporting language growth and aligning with one of the three foundational pillars of our school: Happiness. You can download our Nursery Curriculum here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Will learning two languages confuse my child or delay their speech?

This is one of the most common concerns among parents, but research has consistently shown that bilingual children meet language milestones at a similar pace as their monolingual peers. As long as they are exposed consistently to both languages in meaningful contexts, children are capable of learning two languages without confusion or delay.

Q: What are the benefits of bilingual education?

Bilingualism offers more than just the ability to speak two languages. It enhances cognitive development, supports academic success, and improves communication skills. Bilingual individuals also tend to develop greater cultural empathy and are better prepared for global career opportunities later in life.

Q: How does Tessa International School support early bilingual development?

At Tessa, our nursery program introduces children as young as 20 months old to a second language (French, Spanish, or Mandarin). Designed for young children, our approach blends structured inquiry with play-based exploration, all grounded in the global-renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) framework. 

 

Are you ready to discover Hoboken’s leading international private school?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

 

 

Celebrating Cultures at Tessa International School

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With over 60 cultures represented in our multicultural community as of 2025, fostering global awareness and cultural understanding remains at the heart of our education as an international school. Promoting multicultural awareness and inclusion not only supports students from diverse backgrounds but also prepares future global citizens to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. Read on to see how we celebrate culture and cultivate global awareness at Tessa!

Students across grade levels gather to celebrate the cultural diversity during UN Day at Tessa.

At Tessa, children are introduced to other languages and cultures in order to enhance their cultural awareness; they are bilingual and culturally adaptable.

What Tessa International School Did to Celebrate Cultures: Our UN Day Parades

Every year on October 24, the world celebrates United Nations (UN) Day to honor the founding of this international organization and its work to promote global unity. Established after World War II, the UN is an intergovernmental organization to help prevent future international conflicts and work for the benefit of all humanity. 

 

“In the end, it comes down to values. […] We want the world our children inherit to be defined by the values enshrined in the UN Charter: peace, justice, respect, human rights, tolerance and solidarity.

–António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General. ”

 

As an international school, we share a common vision with the UN for the future–a better, more connected world. Our School Mission is to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring children of the world and future leaders of tomorrow through understanding and respect–nurtured by our bilingual education and multicultural community. In this light, every member of our school community contributes to building a peaceful and collaborative world where we all can learn from each other. 

In previous years, we have celebrated UN Day by exploring our diverse roots and appreciating the richness of our shared experiences. Taking it further, the UN Day celebration not only contributes to raising awareness of diversity among our students but also within the broader community: 

Heritage Day at Tessa International School

This year, we will celebrate Heritage Day on Friday, April 11, 2025, continuing our tradition of honoring cultural identity and global understanding. 

Students will have the opportunity to celebrate their heritage while gaining a greater appreciation for the world’s various traditions and perspectives. A highlight of the celebration will be the whole-school parade, where students, teachers, and staff dress in traditional attire or display artifacts from their own culture or a culture they admire. 

 

Every culture is a thread in the fabric of a brighter, more connected future. Through mutual respect, we prepare our students to shape and lead in an interconnected world. 

FAQs

Q: When is United Nations Day? 

A: UN Day takes place every October 24, commemorating the anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945. 

Q: Why do we celebrate United Nations Day at school? 

The significance of United Nations Day lies in its celebration of diversity. It provides an opportunity for children to learn about and appreciate the rich variety of cultures, religions, and languages around the world. The celebration also serves as a reminder of universal values such as peace and harmony to unite people from diverse backgrounds. 

Q: How does Tessa International School celebrate cultures? 

Tessa frequently organizes activities that celebrate our multicultural community–with over 60 cultures–both inside and outside the classroom. This year, on Heritage Day (Friday, April 11), students will participate in a school-wide parade and visit cultural display tables hosted by School Parent Volunteers—experiencing a range of traditions and perspectives that broaden their global understanding! 

 

Are you ready to discover Hoboken’s leading international private school?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

 

A girl from the primary class waving two national flags.

Promoting Cultural Awareness at Tessa International School

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A critical part of helping our students become caring and happy world citizens is guiding them to understand and respect different cultures. Compared to local schools which often reflect a more homogenous cultural environment, we, as an international school, immerse students in a naturally diverse community where they experience a wide variety of cultural perspectives daily. By prioritizing cultural awareness, we prevent children from believing generalizations or stereotypes associated with a particular race, gender, or ethnicity. Instead, an appreciation for their own and others’ cultural differences is promoted from early childhood. 

“At Tessa, children are introduced to other languages and cultures in order to enhance their cultural awareness; they are bilingual and culturally adaptable.”

– The Mission Statement of Tessa International School.

A diverse group of students from various races, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds collaborating in a classroom at Tessa International School.

Cultural awareness is fundamental to providing a uplifting learning environment for all students.

A Multicultural Community

As of September, 2024, more than 60 different cultures are represented within our Tessa Community. This multicultural environment provides students with firsthand opportunities to experience diverse perspectives and practices. Children engage in collaborative projects with peers from various backgrounds, smoothly cultivating mutual respect and open-mindedness across national boundaries. 

To ensure a multicultural education that is responsive to all students, our teachers are all highly credentialed native speakers of English, French, Mandarin or Spanish, who bring a wealth of expertise and experience in their respective fields, and cultural knowledge to their teaching. This ensures that our students receive the highest quality bilingual education. Together, we create a collaborative and supportive community that develops all members a profound sense of belonging and appreciation for the richness that diversity brings.

A world map shown over 60 cultures represented at Tessa

Our school community reflects a specturm of diversity and inclusion.

A School Life Full of Cultural Celebrations

Due to the international nature of our school community, cultural awareness thrives through our celebrations and festivals, which are significant components of our vibrant school life. These events are more than fun activities; they manifest emotions, traditions, and knowledge, all of which are essential to our students’ understanding of the global world. 

Throughout the year, we celebrate events such as Hispanic Heritage Month, Lunar New Year, and Fête de la Musique – connected to our Spanish, Mandarin, and French bilingual programs for students to apply their targeted languages in real-life contexts – along with a range of other cultural traditions. These celebrations immerse our students in different cultures with interactive opportunities, whether enjoying traditional dishes, performing cultural dances, or directly communicating with guest speakers from specific cultures. Celebrations not only spark curiosity about different ideas, beliefs, and values but also inspire deeper cultural exchanges. 

We always welcome parents to volunteer in organizing or/and supporting school events to share their cultural legacies across generations. By participating in and learning about traditions, students deepen their appreciation for how cultural diversity enriches our shared experiences.

You can check our upcoming school events here. 

To celebrate the UN Day, a class of primary students at Tessa wearing their cultural outfits and holding up a poster that says "together in the world" in Spanish.

At Tessa, children are introduced to other languages and cultures to enhance their cultural awareness.

An Integrated International Curriculum

To provide students with both academic excellence and a global perspective, we offer an exceptional education based on international best practices. On a closer look, Tessa International School holds three premier global accreditations as a testament of our commitment to academic excellence: 

  1. International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP)
  2. French Ministry of Education for our Maternelle program (Preschool to Kindergarten)
  3. Cognia for our Preschool, Kindergarten, and Primary School Programs

Our globally recognized programs, with a focus on bilingualism, enable a seamless transition into other accredited institutions worldwide and a strong pathway towards higher education, facilitating their global mobility and fostering their continued success. 

 

Multicultural understanding is a valuable asset for children, helping them build greater self-esteem and form successful personal and professional relationships in different settings. From our multicultural community full of dynamic celebrations to worldwide recognized international curriculum, we prepare students not only to achieve academic competence but also to engage with the world as open-minded, culturally aware citizens.

 

FAQs

Q: Why should we foster children’s cultural awareness? 

Fostering cultural awareness in children helps them become more empathetic, adaptable, and open-minded individuals. In an increasingly interconnected world, it is vital for children to appreciate and respect differences. By developing an understanding of various cultures early on, they grow into adults who are better equipped to collaborate across cultural lines, reducing prejudices, gaining global competency, and creating a more inclusive world. 

Q: How does Tessa International School promote students’ cultural awareness? 

At Tessa International School, fostering cultural awareness is inherent in both our curriculum and daily school life. Accredited by the IBO and the French Ministry of Education, we integrate international best practices into our bilingual curriculum to ensure a globally recognized, high-quality education. This approach equips students with a broad perspective, helping them develop an understanding of different cultures while gaining academic excellence. Additionally, our community represents over 60 different cultures, allowing students to engage with peers from around the world and learn about different perspectives firsthand. A wide variety of cultural festivals and holidays are honored and celebrated, offering students a rich tapestry of global traditions, stories, and customs that enhance their appreciation for diversity.

Q: What role do parents play in promoting cultural awareness? 

A: Parents play a crucial role in fostering children’s cultural awareness as the primary role models who demonstrate open-mindedness and respect for diversity. By engaging in discussions about different traditions, values, and perspectives at home, parents can help children see the world through a broader lens. At Tessa International School, we encourage parents to actively participate in our cultural celebrations and festivals to show parental engagement in students’ learning journey and help us create an inclusive community. Moreover, supporting bilingual education also fuels children’s understanding of diverse cultures, making them more cultural aware and knowledgeable citizens. 

 

Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

 

 

 

Students of Tessa International School with their Mandarin teacher

10 Reasons You Should Choose Chinese Immersion For Your Children

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Why encourage your child to learn Chinese? Research shows learning other languages has cognitive and cultural benefits on developing minds. It also strengthens our sense of global awareness and unity, in and outside the classroom! Each language has its own unique benefits, and Mandarin’s are numerous. Some believe that learning Chinese is one of the best investments you can make! 

A primary school teacher instructs Mandarin to her Grade 1 students at Tessa International School's Mandarin Track.

Learning Mandarin Chinese, one of the most widely spoken languages worldwide, can be a rewarding experience, offering cultural understanding and professional opportunities.

1. Chinese is the native language for 20% of the world’s population

Learning Chinese creates an immediate connection between your child and 1/5 of the world’s population. That’s amazing! Even if you have no plans to set foot in a Chinese-speaking country any time soon, there are nearly 50 million Chinese who live outside of China.

2. Learning Chinese will be a career advantage

Career advantages for learning Chinese are numerous. The ability to communicate to over one billion people has major value in the job marketplace. Of course, this includes companies in China and other Mandarin speaking countries. But companies all around the world are striving to tap into the Chinese marketplace, and you’ll immediately differentiate yourself if you can speak Mandarin.

3. Chinese isn’t phonics based. Learning it is memory-intensive

Kids have the best memory capacities in the world.  The Chinese language isn’t phonics-based so you can’t learn a small set of alphabets/sounds and be able to read the language. It’s all memorization so the sooner your kids start, the better. Learning Chinese will strongly develop your child’s memorization skills. 

4. It’s really an art class

Chinese characters are made up of multiple components that fit together to create meaning and pronunciation. As children will mostly be learning pictographs and characters that have clearer visual meaning, characters become mini pictures. This can make learning characters a lot more fun and easier for children to both remember the characters by creating stories and writing by constructing pictures for each one. 

5. Mandarin helps having a better interpretation of symbols

Since Mandarin writing relies on thousands of characters, learners of Mandarin Chinese have to read and interpret a vast number of visual symbols, activating more regions of the brain than English, which relies on a phonetic alphabet. Through learning Mandarin, children can become more adept at visual communication, more readily interpreting symbols in visual art and understanding nuances in symbolism and visual communication.

6. Chinese will give English-speaking children a different paradigm for thinking

Languages affect the way we think, and therefore our perspectives. Giving kids a different language, particularly one so different from their native tongue, means we are also giving them a different paradigm for thinking. Bilingual kids are more likely to see things from different perspectives, and they are more likely to be emphatic with others.

7. Learning the Chinese language is the prerequisite for learning the Chinese culture and history

Language learning enables us to unveil the deep meanings embedded in cultural concepts, idioms, and historical texts, which are too complex to be fully captured in translation. Classical Chinese poetry, for instance, relies on linguistic nuances and historical allusions that lose depth when translated, making it difficult to fully appreciate works like Li Bai’s verses. Similarly, Confucian teachings, such as 仁 (rén)—often translated as “benevolence”—embody layers of philosophical and cultural significance that require a deep understanding of the language. To truly understand a culture, learning its language is essential.

8. Mandarin contributes to developing stronger Math skills

Yes, there is actually a scientific correlation between learning Mandarin and improved mathematical ability. Scientists theorize that because Mandarin representation of numbers is less abstract than Arabic numbers, and because the act of practicing handwriting requires repeated counting, young children gain greater familiarity with math and with numeric thinking. In learning Mandarin, the mathematical concepts are integral to the language fluency, and not a separate subject activating a different part of the brain.

Because Mandarin Chinese involves learning language, sounds, drawing, and math all at once, it activates more regions of the brain and improves cognitive development overall, even in adults. In fact, speakers of Mandarin use more of their brain more of the time, unlike English speakers who tend to alternate between left and right hemispheres. In theory, this more balanced brain could lead to greater overall creativity, enhanced problem-solving, and increased emotional intelligence.

9. Speaking Mandarin may offer kids a musical edge

Kids who speak Mandarin may outperform kids who speak English in at least one aspect of musical ability — perceiving pitch. Pitch refers to how high or low a sound’s frequency is. In tonal languages, such as Mandarin, pitch is very important. These languages use different pitch patterns to give meaning to words.

10. Your child will become bilingual in Chinese in a way they never could have otherwise

Immersion is the most efficient (and some would say the only) way to gain fluency in a target language, and Mandarin Chinese is no exception. The Chinese language is often considered one of the world’s most difficult languages to learn, but this sentiment is a major oversimplification. Like any language, learning Chinese has its challenges. Placing your child in an ideal learning environment, such as a language-rich program like Tessa Mandarin Immersion Program, is key to learning Chinese. 

Mandarin Chinese Programs at Tessa International School

Tessa Mandarin Immersion programs combine the US Common Core and Chinese National Standards with the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework to provide a comprehensive bilingual education from Nursery to Grade 5. Our program is designed to nurture bilingual Mandarin and English speakers while fostering a global perspective, critical thinking, and cultural awareness.

 

 

Are you ready to discover Hoboken’s leading international private school?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

 

Black History Month Celebration at Tessa

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For nearly 50 years, Black History Month has been celebrated in the United States to honor and recognize the significant achievements and contributions of the African American community. At Tessa International School, we celebrate this meaningful month every school year with a series of educational activities, inspiring stories, and engaging events. 

Learning About Important African American Figures

Our primary students explored the lives and contributions of African Americans who fought against slavery, segregation, and discrimination. They discussed the significance of these historical changes and their lasting impact on individuals and society.

The celebration of Black History Month allows our students to recognize the accomplishments and resilience of many historical figures.

  • One group of students admired how Frederick Douglass secretly learned to read and later taught other African Americans, recognizing his intelligence and compassion.
  • Another group focused on Sojourner Truth, a dedicated advocate who worked tirelessly to help freed slaves find employment.
  • A third group studied Mildred and Richard Loving, an interracial couple who successfully challenged Virginia’s ban on interracial marriage in the 1960s. The students were inspired by their love story, perseverance, and open-mindedness.
  • A fourth group chose Harriet Tubman, the courageous risk-taker who led enslaved individuals to freedom through the Underground Railroad.
  • The final group explored the contributions of Viola Desmond, a Canadian anti-segregation activist, and Nelson Mandela, the late South African leader and activist.

Integrating Black History Month into Learning

As part of their Unit of Inquiry, our students studied the achievements of African American pioneers, applying their knowledge in real-life contexts. For example, Grade 1 students, in their unit “Where We Are in Place and Time,” created timelines of African American heroes, including Martin Luther King Jr., Muhammad Ali, and Rosa Parks. This deepened their understanding of historical chronology and shared in presentations with their younger peers in Pre-K4. In addition, our Kindergartners also read Black history-themed stories to Pre-K3 students and prepared themed coloring activities for them.

Our buddy program pairs upper-grade students with younger children for reading sessions, activities, and collaborative projects. These experiences foster meaningful learning, skill development, and a sense of community, making Black History Month an inclusive and engaging celebration for all students.

A kindergarteners is sharing a picture book on African American History with a PK3 student.

We bolster a connected school community through the buddy program.

Exploring African American History with Parents

We are delighted to welcome many parents into our classrooms to share learning moments with students through storytelling, collaborative projects, and group discussions. Their visits provided valuable perspectives on how African American history has shaped our country—impacting society, science, literature, music, sports, and culture.

It was heartwarming to witness intergenerational learning in action, as parents shared their experiences and insights, enriching our students’ understanding of diversity and inclusion. These meaningful interactions help ensure that African American history continues to be honored and celebrated.

A parent reader share a story of Nina Simone to celebrate Black History Month with our kindergarteners.

Reading books is a great way to bring the histories of African American pioneers to life for children.

Preschoolers at Tessa International School work on their themed coloring project to celebrate Black History Month.

It is never too early to inspire our children with the African American History.

Engaging with African American Storytelling and Music

Additionally, our students participated in an engaging educational program led by storyteller April Armstrong and musician Ayodele Maakheru. Through folktales of perseverance, such as the story of John Henry, and the vibrant rhythms of West African drumming, students gained a deeper appreciation of the struggles and triumphs of great African Americans throughout history.

As we reflect on the past and celebrate the present, we continue taking steps toward a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

storyteller April Armstrong and musician Ayodele Maakheru engaged our students in African American history and music.

Interacting with African American artists encourages students to think critically about past, present, and their roles in positively shaping this world. 

Summer Travel Plans…?

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At Tessa International School, we make it our mission to prepare our students to be leaders of the 21st century and happy world citizens. During the summer months, traveling with your children can be a great way to introduce them to the diversity beyond our borders.

Traveling with your children can be a fun and very educational way to broaden their mindsets. When you travel with your children, you are allowing them to observe and experience new places, languages, foods, and cultures first-hand. At Tessa International School, we strongly believe in preparing our children to embrace the world with enthusiasm, confidence, and the strong will to make a difference. Traveling is one of the key ways to help develop their open-mindedness, curiosity, flexibility, independence and many other skills at an early age that are necessary for them to succeed in our highly interconnected and globalized world. Raising global children means sending them off into the world better prepared to tackle the issues of the 21st century.

Here are our top five reasons to travel with your kids:

  1. It is a great way to spend valuable time together as a family. There is no better way to show your child that you care than to spend time together. Travelling will certainly leave you with some remarkable photos and unforgettable memories!
  2. It broadens your child’s mindset and perspective of the world. It is amazing how quickly children catch on to subtle differences in their environment. Travelling presents a wonderful opportunity to spark their curiosity and imagination.
  3. Travel allows your child to develop their self-esteem, confidence and independence. Exposing your children to new and different cultures will undoubtedly teach them new things. It will also a great way to strengthen their character and discover who they are and where they come from.
  4. It teaches them to embrace diversity. Meeting new people, listening to foreign languages, and trying new foods are all great experiences that showcase the differences in our cultures. Celebrate the diversity!
  5. Before you know it, your child will become a seasoned traveler. You may be hesitant to take your little one along for the vacation, however, it is an excellent way to set expectations and let them grow accustomed to what is expected of them on travel days.

It’s never too early to start exploring the world with your little one. Visit our website to learn more about our world class curriculum and language immersion programs in either French or Spanish. At Tessa, we understand the importance of preparing our children to take on whatever challenges life throws at them and embrace global opportunities with enthusiasm and confidence. RSVP to join us at our next information session or call us to schedule an appointment at (201) 755-5585.

Safe travels and we look forward to meeting you and your family soon!

Join us at Tessa International School

Discover why our bilingual curriculum is recognized as one of the best. Learn how we combine academic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences that foster global awareness.

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Join us at Tessa International School

Discover why our bilingual curriculum is recognized as one of the best. Learn how we combine academic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences that foster global awareness.

Office: (201) 755-5585 | Location: 720 Monroe St. Hoboken, NJ 07030