David

Certified Tutor

Although I earned a B.A.in English from San Diego State University ,I have received and continue to further my education from a large, diverse group of dedicated, caring,often brilliant instructors. From elementary school through the secondary teaching program at Cal State L.A., and on to many esteemed colleagues I've encountered in the teaching profession, it is my good fortune to have been influenced and molded by an impressive parade of scholars. The foundation of my education was built by my parents, who not only instilled in me a lifelong love of reading, taught me always to treat all people with kindness and respect.
While I feel at home as a tutor in history, social studies, and lower level math,I am at my most qualified and effective when teaching any facet of English Language Arts. Whether it be providing suggestions for polishing an essay, navigating the intricacies of a great piece of literature, expanding vocabulary, or merely brushing up on grammar and spelling, I just want to get to the heart of my students' needs, and make the learning experience a positive one. I would describe my teaching style and philosophy as flexible, friendly, open-minded. I prefer discussion to lecture. I can be loose and funny, or strict and serious, depending on the situation. The one on one relationship affords many different paths to success, all of them uniquely rewarding.
I have myriad avocations, but I'm sure most of them inform my work in some way. I retain my affinity for most sports, major or minor, team or individual, as participant and spectator. I freely dispense baseball metaphors. Once in a while I connect with my muse to write some excellent, yet still unpublished poetry. I enjoy cooking, and look forward to entertaining family and friends on special occasions. I am an avid concert goer and collector of recorded music; I love all genres and eras. This often results in my creating compilation mix-tapes on a variety of themes. Of course, I'm trying to find the time to read the great books I haven't yet read.