FAQs
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I usually speak briefly on the phone with a new client, and I will confirm through email the date and time of our first session, which is typically 1 or 1.5 hours, although students sometimes book more time with me. I tell everyone the same thing, which is that we will set up a first session, so I can better understand how I can help you, and you can get a feeling of whether you think we will work well together. Once the first session is over, a new client usually books more time with me, but I always let people know they can always think about it and follow up with me later. If the student is in grammar or high school, the first session usually involves one or both of the parents. We speak together briefly with the child, and then the youngster and I will use the remaining time for tutoring, usually working on that day's homework. When students are juniors or seniors in high school, sometimes I speak on the phone with the parent, but the student arrives alone the first time. It's up to the family to decide.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor's in Biology and a minor in French literature from Rutgers University. I have a Masters in Social Work from Fordham University and have worked as a psychotherapist. Although tutoring is very different, I tap into the many skills I learned back then when working with students, such as how to listen to and empower others. I also advocate on my student's behalf when necessary, while promoting these and other life skills in my students. When I lived in Brazil, I received a scholarship from the Brazilian government (thanks, Brazil!) and wrote my thesis in Portuguese for my second Masters, which is in Semiotics and Communication. My specialization was psychoanalytic literary criticism. That all sounds so fancy, but I'm someone whose work and personal life are focused on helping others. It gives me an incredible amount of satisfaction and happiness in my life. Oh, and I like cats and own two!
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I began teaching ESL and literature courses when I moved to Brazil in 1998. When I relocated to San Francisco in 2004, I began working as a contractor with a tutoring agency. Over time, I built my own business exclusively through private referrals. My ability to tutor most high school subjects has been key to success. Also, I've been told I have a gift for explaining math and vocabulary, which has been especially helpful when prepping students for major standardized tests.