About
Communication is presentation. Expression and analysis form the backbone of social connection, relationships, and business. By comprehending another's thoughts, we understand the world. By distilling our own thoughts, we change the world.
As a UCLA Chemical Engineer turned management consultant, I appreciate the power of thoughtful words more than ever, and I seek to empower students to discover their passion for the English language, whether that be through literary analysis, technical writing, or fiction.
Since 2011:
- Tutored high school students in English through Upward Bound, drawing on an extensive AP Literature background and curriculum
- Advised on and edited 100+ college, medical school, and residency application essays
Education
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (2015)
UCLA, The Henry Samueli School of Engineering (fall 2011-spring 2015)
HarvardX Contracts Law Certification (fall 2017)
The Harker School (2007-2011)
Awards
§ AIF Service Honoree (2019)
§ AIF Brand Ambassador (2016)
§ Quill and Scroll International Honor Society (2011-present)
§ National Merit Finalist (2011)
§ National AP Scholar
Positions
President of America India Foundation Bay Area Young Professionals (2016 - 2019), Founder of Rohingya Relief Now (2016 – present), UCLA Chapter President of Global Health Professions Microfinance (2012-2016), Volunteers of America Tutor (2012-2015)
Reviews
Candice W.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first step is to carefully listen to a student to ascertain their needs and goals, in consultation with parents (and teachers if and when appropriate). The next step is to create a plan of action, with a mutually agreeable timeline to gauge progress. Finally, when working with any new student, I believe in soliciting feedback to ensure that I am effectively enhancing the learning experience.
I find that consistency, clarity, and connection make a difference in a student's joy for a subject.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I was a declared English major, steeped in high school and college literature, before I switched to Chemical Engineering. My passion for English in all its forms (technical writing, literary analysis, creative writing) has remained intact, and I've applied my skills to:
- Tutoring students in English literature through the Upward Bound program for 4 years, via Volunteers of America
- Consulting on and editing 100+ college, medical school, and residency application essays in various programs and disciplines
- Leading the Bay Area's LAMP chapter, a major literacy initiative for migrant children
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Each lesson plan and timeline is custom-designed to suit a student's needs. However, I do offer these packages:
High School English Tutoring (British & American Literature, AP Test Preparation, SAT English, Creative Writing, Research Writing)
$50/1 hr
$140/3 hrs
$400/10 hrs
College Application Essay Consultation
$60/1 hr
$150/3 hrs
College Application Editing
$30/1 hr with hours quoted prior to review
How did you get started teaching?
My mother was a middle school teacher, and I got my start tutoring high school students in English and Calculus through Upward Bound.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students across the spectrum from 5th-graders to 4th-year medical students. In terms of curriculum, my forte is middle and high school English language and literature education. My consultation forte is college application and medical school essays.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
The literacy initiative I have championed with the charity I serve, American India Foundation, recently hit the milestone of 500,000 students uplifted through our program: https://aif.org/our-work/education/learning-and-migration-program/
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find a teacher who is passionate and knowledgeable about the subject matter. Then judge them on their adaptability. In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, learning material is as much about connecting as it is about the subject matter.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
1) On a scale of 1-10, how much does this subject matter to me and my educational endeavors?
2) On a scale of 1-10, how much extra effort do I need to put in to reach the level I seek?
3) What do I struggle most with to absorb? What do I find easy?
4) Where am I looking to evolve to and what is my timeframe?