James J.

Certified Tutor

I have loved learning all of my life. Passing on what I have learned and helping others to devlop the skills to learn effectively is the most fulfilling profession I can imagine, and I've been privileged to have a long career as a teacher. I earned a B.A. Summa Cum Laude in English, an M.A. in English, and a Ph,D, in English at Temple University. I began tutoring in high school, working with inner city elementary school children to improve their reading skills as a member of the Community Service Corps. I continued as a tutor during my undergraduate studies. As a university professor, working with students individually outside the classroom helped many students achieve academic success, and just as importantly, enhanced their confidence and self-esteem. My teaching and tutoring philosophy is founded upon helping students to discover knowledge and understanding themselves, as opposed to delivering it to them. My method is to ask questions; students' answers shape my next question, and this process continues until we have arrived at an an understanding they have shared in creating. I love my profession because it changes people's lives. I cannot claim to have achieved this with every student, but I know from the testimony of former students that I have made a difference in their lives. Because that is possible, it behooves me to do my utmost for every student. In addition to academic support, I offer every student respect and empathy, which are necessary to foster confidence in themselves and in me.