"Hi!

I've been a language and writing instructor at the City Colleges of Chicago for 31 years, helping students build their craft as writers and prepare undergraduate and graduate school application essays that highlight their strengths, passions and creativity. I've tutored a variety of students from undergraduates to professors in English. I've done various kinds of writing for years including work on documentary films in New York City for National Public Television, essays for Chicago Public Radio and Op-ed pieces for the Chicago Tribune, and stories for public performance. My book, An Immigrant Class, documents the lives of recent immigrants to Chicago. I've just finished work on a memoir, and I'm an active singer-songwriter based in Chicago. I founded an annual college scholarship fund for my local high school and serve as a mentor for first generation high school students.

I love crafting language to tell a story. I'm passionate about teaching and working with students to help them hone their skills in whatever capacity they need, whether it be straight up English grammar skills or captivating essay writing. My greatest strengths include building strong trusting working relationships with students and motivating students to create their best work. As a writer, I know how to mine and brainstorm with students to bring out the story that is waiting to be told. I look forward to helping you as well.

A great tutor brings skills and experience, but also is able to improvise and understand the personality and goals of a student. I think I do these things well. I've worked with thousands of students and have generally received high marks for my knowledge, creativity, interest, personability, concern, sense of humor and ability to inspire.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Jeff" less...