Experience Summary
As an undergraduate, I earned a BA in English and a second BA in Writing, allowing me to hone my writing, discussion, reading, and analytical skills. I studied writing tutoring methods in a class setting while tutoring in our college's writing center. As a senior, I completed an independent study course, studying both writing tutoring theory and conducting my own case study research, which was presented at a research conference at the State University of New York at Albany. I have an excellent knowledge of English grammar and experience with working with students of all levels, including non-native speakers. In high school, I also tutored students in mathematics, English, and social studies, both face-to-face and online. I spent the last year teaching English to students at a teacher training college in China, studying Mandarin Chinese, and teaching short-term classes to elementary, middle, and high school students.
Teaching Style
Over the last year, I learned a Chinese saying that describes my attitude toward teaching: "Interest is the best teacher." I believe that the key to helping students learn is capturing their interest and helping them develop skills to learn for themselves. While many English and writing tutors simply edit papers for students, I emphasize other concerns such as writing good thesis statements, keeping clear focus, and writing good paragraphs and transitions. I also teach in an interactive way and enjoy getting to know a student so that I can adapt my teaching to his or her interests and needs. Far more important to me than helping students earn an “A” on assignments is helping them build skills and interest that will ensure future academic success.