Tutor Spotlight: Ann P.
Meet Ann.
In everything she does, Ann brings a passion for language. As a former English professor, grant writer, environmental advocate, and creative writer, she's honed an ability to find the right words to move her intended audience. She knows finding your story isn't always easy, but it is possible – and can even be fun! She’s committed to helping students get past the challenge of a blank page and find their unique voice.
What's one thing you love about tutoring?
I love getting to know students and helping them discover new ways to think.
How do you keep students engaged During tutoring sessions?
Our sessions are very interactive. I ask a lot of questions and offer a variety of options for generating ideas, delving deeper, and leveling up. Together we play with different approaches to see what works. If something starts feeling like a slog, I don't believe in forcing it. We're on the hunt for that energized feeling.
What's one study tip every student should know?
Crafting a high quality essay takes time. Revising is where the magic happens.
What was your favorite class in high school and why?
One year, as an experiment, my high school offered a series of 8 week special topic classes where teachers got to teach any topic that interested them. I signed up and loved them all - probably because the teachers brought so much passion to the material. The one I remember the most was a study of the Hindu religious text, the Bhagavad Gita. It was beautiful but challenging. It forced my brain to stretch into unfamiliar territory, and that felt exciting. I realized I could think in ways I'd never conceived.
Can you share an example of a student you were proud of for reaching their goals?
I had one student who was really struggling to write her college application essay - the topic she had picked just wasn't working. She was discouraged and a little desperate. So, she agreed to go back to the drawing board and together we found a new topic - starting an all-girls DND club. It felt risky, but it felt authentic. She could write with a lot more enthusiasm and show a lot more about herself- her creativity, leadership skills, and joy in collaborative work. Eventually she found ways to connect that topic to several others and put together an outstanding final essay. It got her into her top two choices for college too!
What do you admire about your students?
I admire my student's bravery... and their willingness to be introspective and thoughtful about themselves.
