"My teaching story began when I was studying for my undergraduate degree in English and French. Learning French showed me how challenging mastering a second language can be and so I signed up to volunteer as a tutor for my university's ESL department. After graduating magna cum laude from the Honor's college, I went on to study for my MA in English Literature. As part of my assistantship, I taught Freshman Composition while helping at the writing center. It was here that I developed a passion for helping my students find their writing voice. All writers, both seasoned and newbies, struggle to get the right words on the page, and the empowerment that comes when those words are found is a feeling second to none both for the student, and me, the teacher.

My love for language and discovering new people and places next brought me to China where I taught English at the Chinese Academy of Sciences. While teaching there, I moonlighted at private language schools and soon amassed a group of students who continued on their language learning journey from extra sessions at my home on the weekends. Students loved learning with me, because I encouraged them to speak without censorship. Both writing English and speaking English as a second language can be an intimidating prospect, but my students find out quickly that the journey can be fun! I am well known for bringing laughter and enthusiasm to all of my classes, because, number one, I enjoy my students and, secondly, I know we are all more receptive to learning when our environment is relaxed.

I spent seven years in China, and learned to speak Chinese fluently myself. While in China I taught to all age ranges and demographics, from kindergarteners to CEOs.

I took some time off from teaching to raise a family. I now have 4 children who have taught me the art of patience! Currently, I'm working with my daughter as she struggles to read because of her dyslexia. I'm well aware that everyone has their own set of challenges and strengths and am willing to meet my students" less...