I thoroughly enjoy tutoring, teaching and working with students. I am an adjunct professor at 2 community colleges. But much of what I do is teaching of some kind, whether it's teaching children how to write a song, teaching young adults basic math and job prep skills, or helping my son with his homework and teaching him guitar and piano. I have done all of these. In addition, I have had my own business as a computer software trainer. All students are adults or retirees.
Perhaps it's because I come from a family of teachers, but it seems to be in my blood. I really do get more from the students than they get from me. I've been told over the years by students that my enjoyment is noticeable. I will often use humor to help illustrate points. I know the feeling of being intimidated by a subject and by the pressure that goes with it. I once took an automotive maintenance class, under the mistaken belief that I had talent as a mechanic. I consider myself fairly intelligent but there are just some areas where the talent passed me by. And mechanics/engineering is one of them.
On the other hand, I'm very musical and mathematical. In addition, I rite reel gud(just kidding...I write well). And I do have the ability to make what I teach come alive. I also believe that anyone can learn but it's important to understand that all students are different. One student may learn best by writing. Another by hearing. Another by old fashioned rote and recitation. Add that to each student's unique personality, and it becomes important for a tutor to understand that one style of teaching does not fit all. If I come across a student that I just do not connect with, which is possible, I'd have no problem backing out and recommending another tutor. I am certainly financially motivated but more importantly, this is still a service position. I want to see all students succeed. Whoever helps them is secondary to me.
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