About
One could say I'm a triple threat because I'm a well-published writer (particularly magazine cover and feature articles), a natural-born editor always looking for ways copy can be improved, and a highly-trained English instructor that has taught at high school and collegiate levels who loves helping others expressing themselves properly and eloquently. I edit books, dissertations, essays, reports, and more. I craft everything I touch word by word, sentence by sentence, in pursuit of perfection and enjoy giving my clients an understanding of how they can improve their own writing and reach their audience. I thoroughly enjoy working one-on-one with those who struggle with the mechanics of English, organizing their thoughts, or achieving a goal that requires writing. Whether it's editing a document remotely or face-to-face instruction, my clients love seeing their abilities improve and their work living up to its potential thanks to my assistance.
I've always enjoyed teaching because I enjoy helping others reach their goals. At one point in my career, I thought I was going to become a high school English teacher, and I earned a master's degree in teaching secondary English. While the demands of teaching in that environment didn't work out for me, I taught college English at the first-rate community college I had started my college educate with and realized just how enjoyable teaching can be. I started tutoring youth and adults more and more and found how effective I could be one-on-one, customizing responses to verbal and nonverbal feedback until I'm certain the client has strong understanding of the concept or skills you're teaching. The pandemic further illustrated how useful tutoring can be, as I taught four high school students weekly for about two years, helping them build skills that went beyond what they were getting in the classroom. I love seeing the "lightbulbs go on" and take great pride in my ability to make my clients' studies easier and happier.
Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I talk to a customer on the phone and invest a good bit of time (often an hour or more) to determine what the client's goals are and ensure I'm a good fit. I review prior work to get a sense of what issues the student may have and often have them take a diagnostic assessment. Typically, I'm hired to "put out a fire" --some sort of urgent matter that is cause for concern, but after that is addressed, I can assist with more building skills for more long-term success.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I'm an expert self-employed editor that edits dissertations and other academic papers and books frequently. I have a long career in journalistic writing, including newspaper artilce and magazine features. Please ask for my resume! I'm certain you'll be impressed.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge by the hour and generally $40/hour based on my education (master's degree in secondary education English with, bachelor's degree in Communication Arts and English (double major), and Associate's degree--all with honors--as well as my vast experience. I think it's a very reasonable rate, which is meant to produce great reviews and clients that refer me to others in need of my services!
How did you get started teaching?
Soon after I graduated with a Bachelor's degree I did a lot of substitute teaching to fill in as I sought my first communications jobs. Four years later, still struggling a bit for FT work, I pursued a degree in secondary education, thinking I'd become a high school English teacher. Though that didn't work out, it helped me get other work and gives me excellent skills as an editor.
What types of students have you worked with?
Middle school through adult. I really enjoy teaching one-on-one and laser focusing on a student's particular weakenesses of understanding as much as possible and helping them acheive new success and confidence with their knowlege of English grammar and writing.