Hi there! I'm a former college instructor with extensive experience teaching and working with all ages. I have been a Biology, Ecology, English, and Spanish instructor and tutor both in California and while living in South America. I taught at San Diego State University, San Marcos Community College, and Boston University in Quito. I also have a lifetime teaching certification in Community College Instruction from the Extension program at the University of California in San Diego. Other subjects I've taught include botany, creative writing, physiology, conservation biology, zoology, marine biology, invertebrate and evolutionary biology, and human reproduction and health. In my spare time I give presentations to students (grade 3 through twelve) regarding my wildlife and conservation research and travel in South America.My teaching style is laid back, and my success as an instructor and tutor is based on three major points: (1)I make sure the students are aware of the study skills that will enable them to excel at any topic they choose, (2) I can relate to all levels and styles of learning, of which there are many, and (3) I love teaching. I come from a family of teachers and I think it is one of the most important roles a person can take on in today's society. My work experience spans across North and Latin America: I studied dolphin bioacoustics for my graduate research, and since have been on National Geographic Television & magazine, Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, and BBC for my conservation research on anacondas, endangered crocodiles, and birds in Venezuela and Ecuador. Teaching isn't just about knowing the subject matter, it is about understanding how people learn, and what skills they can use to enhance and motivate any learning experience. I understand very well the importance of an interested, skillful instructor, regardless of the level at which the student is learning. With a savvy instructor it is possible to take what may seem a very difficult, challenging, and/or very dull topic and make it interesting, even exciting! For more questions please feel free to contact me.