[LeapingGnome]

Grad of the SOLT course here. Let's just say that SOLT must brief well on powerpoint but...
I squeezed a 1+/2 out of it and some guys manage a 2/2 but if you actually want to gain some real proficiency you have two choices:

1) Take the SOLT and do a LOT of studying on your own
2) Go to DLI and put in some quality time

It all depends on how you plan on using the knowledge and how soon you plan on using it. If you have the time and the option of going to DLI then by all means get to DLI.....AND study your ass off. DLI will give you the best out of the box training. On the flip side of that coin i have a friend that has taught himself 8 languages using nothing but rosetta stone, the internet and library materials so bottom line is you'll get out what you put in...but DLI will put more in the fire hose of knowledge than the SOLT program. In my experience immsersion and practical use of the language is key to proficiency and retention no matter which route you take. If you have specific questions about SOLT and the materials PM me and i'll be glad to share.

My $0.02...it's worth what you paid for it...