About
Students learn best when they believe in their own ability to be successful in school. That ability is a muscle, and with a tutor it can be trained.
My name is Jess, and I am an EFL/ESL teacher with particular experience with Spanish speakers. For example, I spent that last 8 months teaching English and providing conversational practice in public schools in southern Spain. I understand the challenges that Spanish-speakers have when improving their English. This informs my speech training techniques as well as teaching English as a foreign language. Beyond memorizing grammar and conjugations, I believe the best way to reach fluency is to engage in on-the-go learning through conversational practice.
I help students with argumentation, essay writing, personal statements, and much more. My motto is that storytelling is at the root of all these writing forms. And as a global researcher and storyteller who has presented her thesis at conferences all over the US and is now producing her first full-length book, I am confident I can help students identify their story, their thesis, or their argument. I can help lead you to better grades and, beyond that, toward a confidence that you can be successful on your own.
I grew up always with my face in a book and a pen in my hand. Reading and writing is something I have had both formal and informal experience with for over twenty years. Through my experience as a copyeditor for academic publications or my nomination for best thesis in my department at University, I have a diversity of knowledge to guide students to their best ideas.
Even if writing/reading/research is your most difficult subject, I like to remind students that there are so many approaches beyond the few that are taught in schools. We just have to find the right one for you.
Reviews
Naqibullah A.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
In our first session, my goal is to help understand or develop a student's goal(s). Becoming a better writer or speaker is a collaborative process, and establishing goals early on will help both me and my student find value in every lesson.
As an English tutor who has taught all ages from children to middle age, I know how to vary my methods to match the needs of each student. Learning style is critical for both attention and retention.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
-Conversation Assistant and EFL Teacher, Spanish Ministry of Education, Andalucia, Spain, Fall 2023-Spring 2024
-Copyeditor for Academic Publications, DC-based Museum, Summer 2020-2021
-English Language Trainer and Mentor, International Rescue Committee (Fall 2019-Fall 2020)
-International Education Fellow for Communications, Richmond, VA (Summer 2019-Summer 2020)
-University Researcher (nominated for best thesis in department of International Studies), Univ. of Richmond (Fall 2018-Spring 2019)
-Staff Writer, The Collegian (Fall 2018-Spring 2019)
I have the teaching, mentoring, researching and writing experience to help your student from any angle.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Conversation Practice: $26/hr
Essay Writing: $34/hr
EFL Lesson: $38/hr
Personal Statements: $40/hr
I charge a higher rate for personal statements, which require a holistic review of each student to create their strongest portfolio for prospective college admissions.
How did you get started teaching?
I come from a long line of professors (all my grandparents and my aunt!). I knew early on that I wanted to teach and mentor. I began doing so in 2013 with middle-school girls on the topic of self-esteem and holistic health. After I graduated college, I wanted to combine my love for the written word, foreign languages, and mentorship. So, I began to teach English in places like Spain or for refugees in the United States. I appreciate students of all ages and backgrounds.
What types of students have you worked with?
All ages (specifically, 8-45 y.o.) and backgrounds (English as a foreign language, etc.)
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Don't be afraid to ask that question you think is silly--if you're curious, explore! And find a tutor who can foster that interest with you with patience. Those interests are your strongest leaders toward success.