WritingThatWorks
About
I am a published writer of fiction (short stories and novellas) as well as educational articles for sports journals. I began my professional career as a teacher before embarking on a 30+ year career in advertising at Leo Burnett in Chicago and Paris, France, then Peter Hoppock Advertising and Consulting. I earned my Masters (M.A.T.) in 2006 and I taught advertising courses at the graduate schools of DePaul and Roosevelt Universities.
I enjoiy seeing students fully engaged, excited about learning. Not just acquiring or mastering techniques and knowldge, but gaining a fuller understanding of their abilities. I want my students to feel expansive and energized.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I think it is critical to get to know the student first. What are his/her general long-term goals—aside from the particulars (pass a test, increase reading comprehension, learn to write more persuasively, etc)? How can we find common ground regarding a process that suits us both? When I was teaching, parents unfailingly felt an urgency: they wanted improvements immediately. Students more often have a realistic excpectation that it will take time to develop new habits, and to take ownership of their new abilities.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I was an English teacher for several years out of college, certified in New York State and Illinois. I did a few years of substitute teaching in North Shore high schools (New Treir, Evanston) while teaching advertising courses at DePaul and Roosevelt Universities. I earned my M.A.T. on 2006.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I do not. I prefer to negotiate according to the needs of the family.
How did you get started teaching?
Out of college for a few years. Then an advertising career (30+ years at Leo Burnett in Chicago and Paris, France, followed by Peter Hoppock Advertising & Consulting. I have always taught something, as a coach (soccer—nationally lisenced with experience at club, high school and college) or instructor (formerly Alpine Administrator for the Professional Ski Instructors of America - Central Division, 40 years on the Education Staff creating curriculums).
What types of students have you worked with?
Bright students and failing students. Extroverts and introverts.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I was the oldest coach at the United States Soccer Federation National Youth License Course (I passed!) a couple years back. For a solid week we worked with kids 8 - 18 years of age.
What I learned there has supported and enlarged my understanding of how children learn - physical activities or intellectual ones.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Be ready to be engaged, not spoon-fed.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are my interests? And how can I stretch those interests to fit the needs of a particular assignment or an entire course?