I believe that teaching and learning can be done in different ways. It really depends on the student’s style of learning. Therefore, I try to make sure that I can provide my student with a variety of resources such as online notes, videos, or creative analogies to help explain any topic. It is imperative to understand the different learning methods and teach the student in their optimal style.
I have had numerous tutoring experiences throughout my life. My biggest experience has been being an older sister. Throughout our lives, one of my priorities is to make sure that she has all the resources that she needs. I’ve gone through her classes before, so I’ve always tried to help her with her homework or help her prepare for an exam whether it be during middle school or now in college. Even now when I am in graduate school and she is in undergraduate college, we have regular online sessions where I explain her the concepts as best as possible.
Also at UVA, I was a personal one-on-one tutor for a few students for Organic Chemistry. This was a very difficult class for many students because it sometimes can become almost learning a new language. However, the goal for me was to make organic chemistry so easy to understand that it doesn’t look foreign at all. I wanted them to be able to see a problem and exactly know what steps that need to be taken. This was a great experience because it taught me the art of explaining complex concepts in common terms.
In addition to that, in college, I volunteered at an elementary school tutoring a 4th grade student and a kindergartner student, focusing on reading and writing. Working with a different aged group of children one on one was a total different experience. Teaching these kids and learning from their enthusiasm was a big life lesson. I realized how different it was tutoring a young child vs. an older one and how teaching needs to be adapted to meet those ways. For example, including a fun activity for elementary school students is important to keep them engaged in school. While on the other hand, high school and college students require more of a practical approach and have to work through practice to understand a concept.
I’ve also volunteered at Computers4Kids, where I tutored a middle school student. We met every week to create different computer project. I was able to build a bond with my student and teach her how to use a computer properly.
I believe these various tutoring experiences have developed in me qualities needed to become a great tutor. I hope to be able to share my knowledge and also spend time learning with my students. One reason I believe tutoring is beneficial is that not only does it help the student, but I also get a chance to refresh and learn these concepts one more time.
For the next two months, I will be available for on-line and in person tutoring in the Richmond area for about 10 hours per week. I am flexible for the next two months and I would be willing to do more hours if needed. Preferably afternoons or evenings would be better, but some mornings could also work. After those two months, I will be available for 5-10 hours a week for online tutoring, which would work better in the evenings.