I specialize in words!

Aja N.

Master of Science in Education - Northwestern University (Evanston, IL)
Bachelor of Arts in Writing, Literature, and Publishing - Emerson College (Boston, MA)
Ten years experience tutoring
Eight years experience classroom teaching (middle and high school)
Fluent in English (first language); conversational ASL; beginner/conversational Persian (Dari)

I love working with young people and sharing the passion I have for learning about the English language! One of the most important subjects in school is English. Reading and writing confidently are imperative for strong communication skills in adulthood. I am energetic, patient, comfortable with kids grades 6 and up, and so excited to help!

In college, I majored in writing/literature/publishing, a special program combining elements of all three subjects in one. After completing my BA, I attended Northwestern University to earn my Master's in Education.

As a classroom teacher, I have worked primarily with high schoolers. My curricula have always been centered around project-based learning and real-life applications of skills. At my most recent school site, I designed and implemented a state-approved English Language Development program to support newcomer refugee students from Afghanistan and Venezuela. As a tutor, I love getting to know my students' individual strengths and interests, and working with them to find what works best for them!

Individual tutoring can be an important aspect of student agency for students who are in classrooms where choice is not incorporated. Students who think they hate reading might just not like the books their schools are choosing; students who think they hate writing might just not find the five-paragraph formula to be very inspiring. Imagine how much their writing will develop when they realize most published persuasive writing doesn't follow the five-paragraph format at all--they can develop their own style!

I look forward to meeting you!