English Language Arts Tutoring for K-12, College, Adult Ed. - ELA Help

Find out more about Christi

• 1) When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  1) I’ve had an interest in literature and writing since I was a kid. In fact, one of my parents’ favorite stories to tell is that I used to host a “Reading Club,” where I would gather my neighborhood friends once a week and help them learn to read! I became interested in private tutoring once my three kids got a little older. I used to teach professionally, so I’ve always had a plan to return to teaching in some way.

• 2) Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  2) English Language Arts can be challenging for many students; compared to conversational speaking, it’s a completely different way of approaching the English language. I like to break concepts down into manageable pieces to help my students absorb the information more slowly and efficiently.

• 3) Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  3) One of my biggest inspirations for pursing the study of ELA and teaching was my 11th grade English teacher. She really helped me understand literature on a deeper level and how to improve my writing.

• 4) What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  4) A good tutor needs to have empathy, first and foremost. Many students begin tutoring because they’re struggling to understand a subject or are complete beginners. Beyond that, patience and a relaxed demeanor are the next two best qualities for a tutor to have.

• 5) Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  5) I was the student whose true abilities were almost never unlocked. I was quiet and reserved, so I nearly slipped through the cracks without coming close to achieving my full academic potential. As a tutor, I now hope to help students feel confident enough in their abilities to let them shine and reach their goals.

• 6) What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still facing in your subject?

  6) In school, I struggled with poor writing instruction at the upper levels. My foundation was good, but it took until that 11th grade English teacher before anyone told me what was missing from my work and how to bring it in. Thankfully I got the help I needed before it was too late. I would like to say I no longer struggle with writing, but as any writer will tell you, there are and will always be challenges that come with the written word!

• 7) Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  7) My passion lies in helping others learn. ELA is foundational for all subjects, so success here opens doors for them to choose what path they will take.

• 8) What makes you a Superprof (besides answering this interview questions :-P)?

  8) I’m a Superprof because I stick with my students until they achieve their goals! I won’t stop working with any student until we’ve gotten them where they want to be.