Connect with hundreds of tutors like Philippa

Who needs tutoring?
What prompted you to seek tutoring?

I am very happy with our experience so far with Varsity Tutors. They matched my daughter with reading specialist Mary and she is wonderful! My 10 year old daughter feels happy after her sessions and believes her tutor has already helped her.

— Allison K

What prompted you to seek tutoring?

Varsity Tutors really helped me understand the concepts during my Calculus 2 class. My tutor has such amazing patience and is open to many questions! Lastly, was always on time and very prompt. Highly suggest Varsity Tutors.

— Joey T

How soon would you like to get started?
Did you know?

Understanding your timeframe helps us to develop a tailor-made learning plan just for you.

Let's finish up your profile so we can find the perfect tutor:
Did you know?

stars

We have a 4.9/5 average customer satisfaction rating.

Let's finish up your profile so we can find the perfect tutor:

Found me a great Python, C Programming, and MatLab tutor for a Engineering Computation course.

— Charles C

Let's finish up your profile so we can find the perfect tutor:

The best tutoring service period. The customer service is beyond impeccable. They provide options that are perfectly suited to your needs. They've done such a wonderful job with my daughter in high school, I plan to use their services when she attends college. I highly recommend Varsity Tutors.

— Yvette

Let's finish up your profile so we can find the perfect tutor:

We know every student is unique. And they deserve a tutoring experience as unique as their needs. With thousands of tutors available, we're confident to find the one best for you.

A photo of Philippa, a tutor from University of Oxford

Philippa: Elk Grove Village tutor

Certified Tutor

Introduction: I've been tutoring for a decade, teaching college students for more than 7 years, and find teaching as rewarding now as I did when I began! My tutoring specialties include literature, academic writing, and college applications.

Experience: I have taught literature and composition college courses in subjects as diverse as Shakespeare, Business Communications, and World Literature. I have also tutored students privately for over a decade.

Success: I have helped students to be admitted to undergraduate and graduate degree programs; I have helped failing students pass college courses; I have edited and provided feedback on coursework and theses; I have helped students to master academic writing.

Education: I have a PhD in English language and literature from Cornell University (2023), a MA in American literature from the University of Edinburgh (2014), and a BA Hons in English language and literature from the University of Oxford (2011).

My Teaching Philosophy: I can help you with writing, literature, essays and coursework, academic writing, and college application materials.

Literature is intimidating! I can support you to develop arguments and critical thinking skills, improve your writing and literary analysis, and work with you on larger assignments such as coursework and essays. Together, we can break down big goals into smaller, achievable tasks that feel satisfying rather than overwhelming.

I have experience working with non-native speakers, students with ADHD and anxiety, first-generation students and those underrepresented in higher education, and adult learners. No two students learn in the same way which is why one-on-one tutoring can be so transformative.

I approach my role with empathy and curiosity, adapting lessons to suit your goals, needs, and interests.

Connect with a tutor like Philippa

Philippa’s Qualifications
Education & Certification

Degree: University of Oxford - Bachelor's, English Language and Literature

Degree: University of Edinburgh - Master's/Graduate, United States Literature

Degree: Cornell University - Doctorate (e.g., PhD, MD, JD, etc.), English Language and Literature

Hobbies

When I don’t have my head stuck in a book, I enjoy hiking with my dog and exploring new cities. Last year, I visited Madrid, Rome, Venice, and Paris! I also volunteer as a writing coach for an after-school club where I help students aged 8 to 10 with writing and other activities.

Tutoring Subjects
Admissions
College Application Essays
College English
English
English Grammar and Syntax
Essay Editing
High School English
High School Reading
High School Writing
Middle School English
Middle School Reading
Middle School Writing
Other
Reading
Writing