Melissa

Certified Tutor

After graduating from high school I joined the United States Marine Corps. I spent 4.8 years in the corps, and was stationed overseas the entire time (Okinawa, Hungary, Kosovo). I have traveled to over 15 countries, and have developed a fascination for learning about different ethnic cultures. I enjoyed my time in the corps, and do my best to always try to incorporate my stories into my lesson plans. I am currently pursuing my TESOL certificate (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages).

For over 10 years I have tutored fellow students, coworkers, high school students, college students, ESL learners, and adults. During my undergrad program I was a writing tutor for not only fellow University Of Illinois at Chicago students, but also for students at Jones College Prep. During my graduate program I also tutored at Jones, and at Whitney M. Young Magnet School. I enjoy tutoring because I like helping students make sense of difficult topics. I also enjoy meeting new students, and forming a strong rapport.

In order to create a successful tutoring session I believe the session must be student centered. During my student teaching experience at Whitney M. Young Magnet School I learned the importance of establishing rapport with the students. A strong rapport helps to create a relaxed learning environment. I also keep my lessons interesting by intertwining current events, my own personal experiences, and technology together. By using multiple teaching strategies I can cater to all learning types, since every student learns in their own unique way.