About
My name is Peyton Del Toro and I am a PhD student in English at The Ohio State University. I received my M.A. from OSU recently with a 4.0 GPA on a full ride fellowship. Before that, I went to Michigan State University and graduated with my B.A. in English with minors in Spanish and Education.
I have won a total of 14 scholarships and grants and 4 university writing awards. My teaching experience ranges from middle school all the way up to seniors in college, and I pride myself on my ability to connect to all types of students. In high school, I was in marching band and competitive gymnastics and cheerleading. Now, when I am not in graduate classes or teaching college freshmen writing, I travel the country doing choreography for cheer teams. I think it is important to draw upon students' various non-academic knowledge pools to enhance their writing and emphasize their passion in their words.
I see writing as self-expression and reading as understanding others. Words are a magical mode of human connection and I really like seeing the moment where something clicks for my students.
Highlights
Photos and videos
Reviews
Sara J.
Ana G.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Depending on whether we are working on reading comprehension or writing, my processes look a little different, but the root of it is still the same. I think it is important to begin discussing with the student what they think their strengths and weaknesses are. I let them tell me what they are good at and what they like, and then I hear about what they don't like and need to improve on.
From there, I give assignments based on specific needs for each student. I don't have a single set process because no two students share the same brain! Instead, I draw upon my extensive teaching experience to come up with a plan of action for each student.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor's of Arts in English with specializations in Education and Spanish. I also hold a Master's of Arts and am currently an English PhD student. In my undergraduate career, I worked with middle schoolers and high schoolers on a weekly basis, teaching writing and reading. Now as a PhD student, I do the same thing for college students.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Initial session/screening is $20 for a half an hour, then $50 per hour moving forward.
How did you get started teaching?
I honestly think teaching came quite naturally to me. When I was 12 I began working with kids in a local gymnastics facility, and from then on, I was coaching classes. Once I graduated high school, I began shifting those skills to the classroom setting as an Education major. Since 2014, I've been working with kids and adults with reading and writing. I've helped adults from marginalized backgrounds obtain their GED, and I've helped kids get into their dream college.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have experience working with kids as young as 3 all the way up to my 40-year-old migrant farmworker student working for his GED.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
When it comes to reading and writing, I encourage you to find someone who will prioritize YOUR voice. If you come to me for help with writing, I will help retain and/or develop your own voice, rather than forcing you into mine. I want to hear/read what you have to say and together we will work to make sure your points are coming across in your writing.