Expert Tutor: College Essay, Algebra, ELL, SAT/PSAT/SOL Test Prep

Judy M.

Accent Reduction

My tutoring experience includes working successfully with ESL and non-English speaking students. In a matter of weeks, with the proper encouragement, students improve their understanding of phonics, enunciation, articulatory placement, and diction. The resulting accent reduction gives students greater confidence in conversational English.

Common Core

Having tutored at an education center in Northern Virginia, I have seen the benefits of providing Common Core materials to students struggling with academic fundamentals. While not everyone's first choice, Common Core does have useful applications. Based on the student's needs and understanding, I have successfully used Common Core resources to solidify the students' understanding of key concepts presented by their teachers and to raise students' test scores.

Cooking

I learned to cook from my grandmother who rarely used recipes and always created incredible meals with fresh ingredients. By my teens, I was catering events for up to 100 guests blending gourmet flair with everyday practicality and by 21 I was sous chef at what is now called The Bench Restaurant overlooking the 18th hole in Pebble Beach. I specialize in teaching simplified techniques, flavor balance, and how to make the most of the ingredients you have on hand. Whether a beginner cooking for one or looking to elevate your skills to handle a crowd, I'll help you cook with confidence and joy.

Essay Writing

I am part of a team that prepares juniors and seniors for the SAT and their college application essays. Currently, I am working with three seniors who are applying to over 15 colleges and universities. With personalized feedback, I guide students through each stage of the essay writing process- brainstorming ideas, outlines, rough drafts, revisions, more revisions, and a standout final draft. My goal is to make the process less stressful and more empowering. The result is not only a memorable college essay but a more confident college-ready student.

Phonics

My mother was a skilled, licensed English teacher who, for fun, took on small character roles in local Shakespearean theater productions. During a brief stint in middle school, I joined the same theater group and discovered just how much expertise she had in terms of diction, voice projection, phonics, articulation, and enunciation. That experience provided me with an early foundation in vocal technique that has remained with me ever since. That same training has been invaluable throughout my adult life when giving presentations, running board meetings, leading small groups, and tutoring students in phonics, reading, and ESL (English As A Second Language). Today, I bring that same foundation into my work with phonics and reading students. For those looking to combine phonics and accent reduction, I offer focused articulation instruction - helping you learn how to use your lips, tongue, teeth, and mouth to produce clear, phonetically accurate sounds. Let's team up and reach your goals!

Public Speaking

My mother was a skilled, licensed English teacher who, for fun, took on small character roles in local Shakespearean (and Molière) theater productions. During a brief stint in middle school, I joined the same theater group and discovered just how much expertise she had in terms of diction, voice projection, phonics, articulation, and enunciation. That experience provided me with an early foundation in vocal technique for public speaking that has remained with me ever since. That early training has been invaluable throughout my adult life when giving presentations, running board meetings, and leading small groups. Today, I bring that same foundation into my work with public-speaking students. Whether you're looking to improve voice projection, intonation, delivery, flow, conveyance, impact, or confidence, I offer all the professional training I've received over the years to help you succeed today. Let's team up and reach your goals!

Web Design

I teach website building using Squarespace, Wix, WordPress, Bootstrap, HTML, and CSS, tailored to your skill level and goals. My experience includes projects for nonprofits, artists, authors, and real estate agents looking to create, streamline, and manage their online presence. I also offer guidance on content strategy and SEO to help your site rank and perform better. I'm AIGA-certified and bring both design and technical expertise to every session.