Alexis

Certified Tutor

I'm currently a PhD candidate at Harvard University, focusing on Buddhist studies. I also have a Masters in Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School, a Masters in English from Middlebury College, and a BA from Trinity College.

Prior to returning to graduate school, I taught 4th, 5th, and 6th grade. I was also certified to teach middle and high school English for several years. While teaching has always been a passion of mine, I especially love the opportunity that tutoring affords to work closely with students as true individuals, helping them develop confidence in their skills and become independent learners, while tailoring lessons specifically to their unique needs and interests.

I particularly enjoy working with students on test prep, because they often show remarkable and tangible improvement in just a short amount of time. Some of us think we are just not good test takers, but in reality there are tons of strategies and tricks that anyone can employ to make the standardized test taking experience easier and less stressful. These are learnable skills and anyone can be a good tester with the right tools.

I also love working with students on reading and writing, because these are subjects I have always loved. Oftentimes I find that my students just haven't found the right books, genres, or authors, and once they do, they realize they love reading. Reading is an extraordinary way to effortlessly improve vocabulary, grammar, and overall knowledge of history, current events, etc.

Similarly, I've worked with so many students who think they just aren't good at writing, or they hate writing. Sometimes this is because they see themselves as "math thinkers" and sometimes it's because they've suffered through too many writing assignments without enough guidance. I believe that any student can learn how to write a clear, well-organized, and effective essay if they know the formula and have enough practice with the writing process (including brainstorming, outlining, drafting, and editing). From the elementary level to the college application essay, writing can be a painless and rewarding form of communication for anyone!

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Alexis’ Qualifications

Education & Certification

Undergraduate Degree: Trinity College - Bachelor in Arts, Religious Studies

Graduate Degree: Harvard University - Master of Arts, Religious Studies

Hobbies

I enjoy spending time with my dog, running, baking, reading, and traveling. I'm also passionate about making and eating ice cream. As an undergraduate I became interested in studying religion, and a semester in India ignited my curiosity about Eastern philosophy and the relationship between literature, religion, and ethics. I'm currently studying Buddhist narrative, particularly in South and Southeast Asia, through the lens of literary theory. The only thing I love more than being a student is helping others find the same joy I have found in being a lifelong learner, expanding my horizons, and recognizing that education is a gift.

Tutoring Subjects

ACT Writing

American Literature

College Application Essays

Elementary School

Elementary School English

Elementary School Math

Elementary School Reading

Elementary School Writing

English

English Grammar and Syntax

Essay Editing