As a child, when people asked what I wanted to be, I told them unflinchingly, "a teacher." A lot has changed since then, but my appreciation for learning and a love of helping others is still here. I have tutored friends, siblings and classmates in various subjects, both as a formal, paid tutor and as a friendly volunteer.

Toward the end of my sophomore year in high school, for instance, I led a study group among my fellow Regents chemistry students. It had been clear at this point in the semester that almost everyone lacked confidence in their ability to pass the class or the Regents exam. A couple of days in advance, I got some of my classmates to sign a sheet with their name and contact information, and texted everyone to discuss availability. Compared to the entire class, it was only a small handful of us who showed up at the school library; still, we made the most of the opportunity, and it felt great to take a position of leadership in order to encourage others.

While attending New York University, I had experience helping fifth graders with writing and math as part of a work study tutoring program called America Reads and Counts. I fell in love with them the moment they greeted me with "Good morning, Ms. Robine" in unison. I saw firsthand the patience, flexibility, and multitasking skills it takes to run a fifth grade classroom, and realized, with humility, how much my help was needed. I have great respect for the teachers who can handle it all with grace.

I believe a good a good teacher MUST have as much knowledge and interest about her subject as she does confidence in her student's ability to learn it. She cannot effectively teach what she herself does not know or care for. She should also be very patient and provide the necessary tools, rather than just the finished product. She must know when to step back and let students transition from theory to practice, from facts to personal experience. I strive to emulate these principles with all of my students.

Other than tutoring, my interests are music, art, languages, writing poetry and narratives, and fitness. I taught myself to play the piano and guitar, and I also enjoy singing and songwriting. Most of my musical experience is closely linked to my Christian faith. I take much pleasure in going to the gym, jogging, taking long walks, attending open mics, and checking out the "Word Origin and History" sections of words on Dictionary.com.

I look forward to joining my future students on the journey of success.