About
I have over 7+ years of tutoring in multiple subjects but specialize in college personal statements, SAT/ACT prep, reading, writing, and math. I received my BA in English from UCLA and my MA in the Humanities at UChicago, so I'm an expert in essays. I am also TEFL certified so I'm fully equipped to teach the English language as well.
Not only have I worked with private tutoring agencies such as Academic Approach, TutorNerds, and Tutor Doctor, but I've also worked with the Orange County Department of Education with foster and at-risk youth for two years. The motto I've adopted from OCDE is to meet students where they are and guide them through every step of the way. At the core of who I am is to advocate for people, so what better way to do that than to help students learn and grow.
Highlights
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Specialties
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Jake C.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The process differs depending on the needs of the parents and student, but the first session/phone call is typically an informational session for both parties; the parents are free to ask me about my services and I inquire about the student's needs and goals so that we know how to proceed with the sessions.
From there, we reach an agreement on scheduling, tutor session structure, and payment. Then it's tutor time!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
- Master of Arts Program in the Humanities from the University of Chicago
- Bachelors in English from the University of California, Los Angeles
- Studied abroad at Lincoln College in Oxford for English Literature and Art History
- TEFL Certified (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
Work Experience
Currently working with Academic Approach SAT/ACT prep
- 2+ years with the Orange County Department of Education as a Title I Tutor
- 2+ years with TutorNerds
- 1+ years with Tutor Doctors
- Media Buyer Assistant at Mediaspot
Volunteer Work
-12 weeks as a Screenwriter Mentor in the Young Storyteller's Foundation
- 8+ years as an Assistant Tae Kwon Do Instructor at Ace Tae Kwon Do Academy
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$55/hour for 6th-8th
$60/hour for high school math and English
$75/hour for personal statements/essays (packages available)
$60/hour for SAT prep
*Open to discussing rates depending on the student's needs. Group tutoring is available at a lower rate.
How did you get started teaching?
It all started when I began to help my cousins (both younger and older) with their homework and tests in grade school. I liked to learn new things so when it came to school, I excelled. I was also the go-to person to ask for help in my English and math classes because I knew how to break down problems into bite-size steps and loved to help. As a youngster, I also assisted my father in teaching Tae Kwon Do from the young age of 8 years, so I learned to teach white belt students who were older than me! My family is also full of teachers, coaches, and instructors so I guess you could say it was destiny for me to work in education!
My professional experience in tutoring began after my undergraduate studies at UCLA so that I could explore the education sector more. However, life caught up and I ended up working with data in marketing. After a few years of picking up new skills, I returned to the education sector by tutoring foster and at-risk youth at the Orange County Department of Education. Pretty soon, I started collecting my own private students and that's when I found myself here!
What types of students have you worked with?
I have tutored students from all socio-economic backgrounds, mental abilities, and ages in various subjects. My specialties are in math (up to Algebra II) and all things related to English. I prefer to work with students who will meet on a consistent basis.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
When I worked with foster and at-risk youth at OCDE, I expanded my skills as a tutor and grew as a person. Since the demographic of students is quite different from the private sector's, anywhere from their socio-economic background, mental ability, and life experiences, the experience has taught me to flexibly adapt to their needs by meeting them where they are first. Then, I learned to break down concepts into the minutest detail so that they can accomplish their goals. They always kept me on my toes, which was exciting. My supervisors told us it took a remarkable person to work with them, but I think working with them is what made us remarkable. My time at OCDE was quite a rewarding experience and I practice those same methodologies with my own private students now.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
In my experience, I have learned that there are two significant things a student should look for in a tutor. To save money and time, the tutor should propose some sort of structure for the tutoring sessions moving forward unless the sessions are purely homework/test-based.
I have also learned that the more experienced tutors charge more, yet they have the experience to effectively guide the students to their desired goals with ease and efficiency. In the long run, the student may save time and money while also achieving their desired goal.
Lastly, compatibility in teaching/learning styles and even personality are very important in order for the tutor to effectively guide the students to their goals.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
1. What do I need help with and how can a tutor help me reach my goals?
2. How much time am I willing to put into studying with a tutor and on my own?
3. What kind of person do I like working with? The tutor's personality is just as important as their skillset.