What is your teaching philosophy?

I try to know my student, really listen to their needs and respond accordingly. My teaching will always reflect the specific student I am mentoring.

What might you do in a typical first session with a student?

I think it is really important that tutoring be more than just two strangers talking about school. I like to get to know my students, learn about them outside of school and figure out what it is they are hoping to accomplish with tutoring.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

By boosting their confidence, teaching them the study/test taking skills that have helped me succeed at Johns Hopkins, and helping the student learn whatever they aren't getting from school.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Honesty, humor, and the occasional bribe! But in all seriousness, I like to keep learning as fun as possible, remind students of the importance of their education, but also provide a safe space where they can talk, laugh and vent.

If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?

Break it down as much as possible and go step by step until the student knows it inside and out!

How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?

My favorite thing to do is read. I would show students first how to increase their confidence, then how to enjoy reading--the comprehension will come naturally. In terms of standardized test, I have a million tips, tricks and strategies to make answering the questions easier.

What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?

Listen. An open and communicative relationship will always be the most successful.

How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?

Focus on the positive, encourage growth and remind them that it's not a sign of inadequacy to struggle. We won't love everything that we do, but I'll help them realize that with effort we can accomplish an astounding amount (and even enjoy it!)

What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?

Repetition, question asking and role switching (they have to teach it to me!) to name a few!

How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?

We will take it as fast or as slow as a student wants, beginning at the level they feel comfortable with. I will constantly reinforce what they do know with positivity, show them that they are capable, and remind them not to sweat it if they don't understand immediately. I will build their confidence as a person in addition to their confidence as a student, and I, unlike a lot of teachers, will never discourage or dismiss.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

By listening to their issues/concerns, actively paying attention to all aspects of their development, and making sure I am always open to communication.

How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?

My goal is always to observe, listen to, and understand the unique needs of every student. I will spend as much time as is necessary learning about who my tutee is, how they best learn and how I as a tutor can do everything possible to improve their experience.

What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?

Everything from online tutorials to games to workbooks to sports equipment. I make learning as diverse, exciting and holistic a process as possible.