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Writing & Essay Tutor (Ph.D., College Professor)
James S.

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Hourly Rate: $60

About James


Bio

I hold a Ph.D. in Philosophy, Art, and Social Thought from the European Graduate School, an M.A. in Philosophy from The New School for Social Research, and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing (Poetry) from Columbia University and. B.A. in Philosophy from Stony Brook University. My academic background brings together advanced training in analytical reasoning and writing, allowing me to support students not only in completing assignments, but in developing the deeper skills that strong academic work...

I hold a Ph.D. in Philosophy, Art, and Social Thought from the European Graduate School, an M.A. in Philosophy from The New School for Social Research, and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing (Poetry) from Columbia University and. B.A. in Philosophy from Stony Brook University. My academic background brings together advanced training in analytical reasoning and writing, allowing me to support students not only in completing assignments, but in developing the deeper skills that strong academic work requires. I approach tutoring as both a technical and intellectual practice, helping students refine how they think, structure ideas, and communicate with clarity.

I have over ten years of teaching and tutoring experience across a range of academic environments, including San Diego City College (where I am currenltly an Associate Professor of Philosophy and English), Columbia University, and San Francisco City College. I have worked with high school and college students in both classroom and one-on-one settings, guiding them through essay writing, critical analysis, and research-based work. My experience includes both in-person and online instruction, and I am trained in digital course design and online teaching methods, allowing me to work effectively with students in virtual settings.

My approach is structured, direct, and highly practical. I help students break down complex assignments into manageable steps, strengthen argumentation, and develop a clear and confident writing style. At the same time, I emphasize long-term skill building, so that students leave sessions with tools they can apply independently. My goal is to create a focused, supportive environment where students can improve not just a single piece of writing, but their overall ability to think critically and communicate effectively.


Education

• State University of New York, Stony Brook University
Philosophy
Columbia University
Masters
European Graduate School
PhD

Additional Languages

French

Policies

  • Tutor’s lessons: In-person
  • Hourly Rate: $60
  • Travel policy: Within 20 miles of San Diego, CA 92116
  • Lesson cancellation: 24 hours notice required
  • No background check

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

James hasn’t set a schedule.


Approved Subjects

Creative Writing

Creative Writing

Creative writing tutor with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing specialized in poetry from Columbia University, 2019. I have taught creative writing classes at Columbia, and I am currently an Associate Professor of Philosophy and English at San Diego City College, where I have taught creative writing classes since 2022.
Essay Writing

Essay Writing

I hold a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the European Graduate School (2025), and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing specialized in poetry from Columbia University (2019). I have taught writing classes at Columbia, and I am currently an Associate Professor of Philosophy and English at San Diego City College, where I have taught academic writing classes since 2022.
James S.'s Photo

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Hourly Rate: $60
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