Experience Summary
Immediately after I graduated with a double-major BA in Political Science and History, I began teaching and tutoring at a boarding school in the Northwest corner of Connecticut. I taught Early American history, in addition to an English course; I have tutored on a wide range of subjects from Algebra to Spanish, Earth Science to literature. I felt it was always important for my students to not only gain a solid understanding of the course material, but also increase their self-confidence. Tutoring was a wonderful medium to work with students on an individual basis to ensure that both their academic and personal needs were being met. In addition, it gave the students a great opportunity to increase their abilities to self-advocate.
Teaching Style
In an evaluation after an observation of one of my history classes, a colleague of mine quoted that "it was evident from the beginning that the students were at ease, and yet extremely focused." My teaching style reflects the attitude that students must be comfortable in their surroundings first in order to be able to focus their energies for the day's work. I believe deeply in learning to both give and receive constructive criticism, from peers and superiors alike. My students would often critique their own work, in addition to others in the class. Although it could be a challenge to work some of the more reticent out of their shells, it proved effective in the long run giving them the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the academic world.