Experience Summary
While earning my M.F.A. I took an advanced course in the pedagogy of teaching writing, which focused on the teaching of remedial writers. I worked in the university's Writing Center as a consultant while also teaching a first-year composition course, and went on, after earning my degree, to teach college writing full time.
At the Writing Center, I worked one-on-one with students to improve papers assigned for subjects as diverse as Biology, Economics, and Dancing. In addition, I have nearly ten years of experience editing literary magazines, and I wrote monthly articles for two different local magazines for two years.
Teaching Style
Not every student learns in the same way, and understanding this simple concept is crucial to successful teaching and tutoring. My goal is to understand where each student is in their larger journey as a writer, as well as where he or she is in terms of the immediate work. I believe strongly in flexibility and patience as a teacher, in remaining open to what students say and to implementing new approaches when necessary.
I listen carefully to what a student is struggling with and to his or her history as a writer, before I form a practical plan for improvement. The goal is not only to get through one or two papers, but to identify recurring problems and to understand why this particular student is struggling with these specific areas.