English Professor and College Writing Specialist

Leonard C.

I've worked as a writing tutor for more than ten years, and as an English professor for more the same amount. I've taught composition, creative writing, scriptwriting, public speaking, and science-fiction literature.

Though I’ve taught extensively at the college level, I’ve also tutored every type and age of students, from those in elementary school learning spelling and grammar, to high school seniors writing their college application letters. I’m very open and excited to teach any English subject, and thrive on students asking questions. Whether it's analyzing Shakespeare, learning the fundamentals of composition, or how to write a short story, I’m happy to help. I strive to meet my students at whatever level they’re at, and make sure the subject is exciting and useful for them.

A little on my background: I hold an MFA in Creative Writing with a fiction emphasis from the California College of the Arts and a BA in English (with a Minor in Spanish) from Black Hills State University, where I graduated with honors. My professional background spans over a decade of college-level teaching in composition, critical thinking, creative writing, and humanities at institutions including Santa Clara University, UC Santa Cruz, and the University of Silicon Valley. I have also held administrative roles in career development, learning resource management, and academic advising, giving me a broad perspective on student success and institutional operations. In addition to teaching, I am an active fiction writer with publications in numerous literary magazines and anthologies, and I have experience editing literary publications and organizing reading series. My interdisciplinary expertise encompasses media studies, rhetoric, dystopian literature, screenwriting, and ESL instruction.

In my spare time outside of teaching, I write science fiction. When not writing, I enjoy gardening and hiking the landscapes of Minnesota.