Hebrew language instructor Galia Stein Rosen

Galia Stein-Rosen comes to SJSU from UC Santa Cruz, where she has taught Hebrew for over a decade. You'll find, once you meet her, that she exudes enthusiasm about her subject (and about life!) She and I had a chance for a quick conversation about her teaching. Have a listen!

You are a person who comes to your work with such optimism and enthusiasm: what (about teaching Hebrew at SJSU) gives you the energy and passion that you show so clearly?

Teaching Hebrew at SJSU is incredibly rewarding because it’s not just about language – it’s about connecting students to a rich cultural and historical legacy. The excitement in students’ eyes when they read their first Hebrew sentence or understand a new word is deeply inspiring. Helping students unlock the meaning behind Hebrew texts fills me with energy. Witnessing their growth and passion fuels my enthusiasm every day.

If someone is considering taking a language they don't know, why Hebrew?

Hebrew offers a unique gateway to understanding history, religion, and contemporary Israeli society. Learning Hebrew allows students to directly access the Jewish and Israeli cultural landscape, with its poetry, literature, and historical texts. It’s a language of continuity, where ancient and modern worlds converge. For anyone interested in exploring Middle Eastern cultures or simply fascinated by a language with deep roots and an evolving present, Hebrew is a fantastic choice.

What concerns are you troubled by (what keeps you up at night)?

What keeps me up at night is the challenge of creating an immersive language environment for students who often have limited exposure to Hebrew outside of class. I’m always thinking about new ways to bridge this gap so students can practice and absorb the language more naturally. Also, I worry about the resources available for students interested in continuing their Hebrew studies beyond our courses. I’m continually seeking ways to support and motivate them to keep Hebrew as a vibrant part of their lives.