"Hi, my name is Macaria, and I am currently a junior attending the University of Maryland. I am a psychology major with a minor in disability studies, and I plan to continue on to graduate school to become an occupational therapist. Through my coursework and hands-on experience, I have gained a strong background in supporting students with varying abilities, especially those with special needs. I am involved in programs such as TerpsEXCEED at my university, where I work closely with students with disabilities in a variety of ways. I provide one-on-one tutoring, help them with homework and planning for the week, attend classes with them, and support them in social situations. I also work for Friendship Circle as the leader of inclusion and engagement. In this position, I make sure everyone is participating and having a good time, and I also teach volunteers how to effectively communicate and engage with their buddies. Through these experiences, I help students build confidence, independence, and social skills while fostering a supportive and fun environment.

I have tutored in both volunteer and one-on-one settings, with most of my experience focused on math and reading. I use interactive methods that make learning engaging, while also helping students stay motivated and work hard. I enjoy being creative in my approach, balancing fun activities with a more focused instruction to keep students interested while still making real progress. I especially love seeing students become proud of themselves when they master something that once felt difficult.

Above all, I believe in building confidence. Regardless of their abilities, my goal is to make learning less intimidating and more rewarding. I want students to walk away from our sessions not only with stronger academic skills, but also with the belief that they can succeed. I can’t wait to help young learners grow, feel confident, and thrive in the classroom!" less...