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About
To borrow a phrase from my alma mater, I aim to “awaken the teacher within.” Teaching is so much more than simply passing along information; it involves inspiration and versatility. Being able to hone in on my students’ interests and goals, encouraging them and being as helpful as possible along the way ensures that they attain the utmost success in their pursuits. I have always had a passion for teaching and it has manifested in various ways, from tutoring French at college to helping friends with homework or chess, even to holding leadership positions in a student-run recording studio. I am determined and dedicated to help any student who would benefit from my services, whatever that might look like.
There is nothing quite as satisfying as watching a student’s inner light begin to switch on. Being able to help a student establish their own voice and style is incredibly fulfilling, and in teaching I find that I learn at least as much as the students. I never makes demands of a student, I am only there as a resource or a guide, demonstrating proficiency and providing advice and critical insight (and homework when necessary). By doing so, I find that students have the possibility to come into their own, to develop their own passion and their own road. There is nothing more enjoyable than watching that take place.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
For me, the most important step is to understand my students’ goals: everything else begins from there. It would make no sense to work on scientific writing, for example, if the student aims to improve their writing of evaluative essays. Or, if a student is interested in studying rock, it would make little sense to assign jazz study. By listening carefully to the desires and aspirations of my students, I am best able to determine the ideal trajectory for their studies.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been engaged in some form of teaching for most of my life. Even though I lack certifications, I have occupied positions which required me to employ pedagogical devices. For example, when instructing incoming students about running the Recording Arts Club, it was essential to teach every aspect of running and operating the space. All of my education and training has been done in person, in the field, and I believe that this autodidactic element has all the more improved my teaching acumen.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Because I am new to online tutoring, I will be offering free introductory lessons. From there, early students will receive a discounted rate and will be able to keep that rate in perpetuity, even if I raise my rates.
How did you get started teaching?
Teaching always came naturally. As soon as I learned something, the next logical step was to help others to learn it as well. In fact, an essential part of my education has been teaching, and both have been something which I have continued to pursue my whole life.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of nearly all ages and backgrounds. This has helped me to tailor my teaching to the individual student, regardless. In fact, part of my individualized approach stems from engaging with a wide variety of students across a wide variety of subjects.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure they feel right. A teacher who is too lax for a dedicated student can be frustrating and a rigid teacher may be detrimental to a shyer student. This all depends on your goals and your interests, and it is up to your teacher to meet you where you are at, rather than the other way around. My advice is to know what you’re looking for; then, find someone who has it.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
In my view, it is incredibly important to know what you seek to learn, what your learning style is, and who might best suit your aims. While it is possible to get a lot out of a session in which you do not have express goals, in order to maximize time spent in sessions, having a clear idea of what you want and how to get there is essential.