I have an enthusiastic and energetic approach to studying that has served me well as a student and has enhanced the experiences of the students I have worked with. No matter the subject, I find ways to engage students in topics they may have previously found boring. Teaching the SAT over the summer to students who would have rather been anywhere else taught me this skill well.
As a student, I use my time efficiently, keeping highly organized planners to make sure I respect all my commitments. This is a skill that is essential to success in every facet of life.
I am a performer, and one of my favorite classroom activities is speaking in front of the class. This love, I believe, dovetails perfectly with my desire to be a tutor. I find joy in explaining material and helping people understand interesting concepts. This joy then transfers to my students.
I respect the intellects of the students I work with. I have read several studies which demonstrate the Pygmalion Effect, and I actively apply this knowledge to my teaching style: students whom teachers believe are special, though actually chosen at random, show significantly improved test scores over those of their classmates. This study suggests to me that if I treat my students as though they are brilliant, showing them the respect, engagement and encouragement of one who believes they can excel, my students truly will excel.