Tutoring Philosophy

Our consultants are constantly refining their tutoring philosophies over the course of their time at the Writing and Speaking Studio. Below are some featured excerpts of current and past consultants.

 Dana Flores, Peer Writing and Speaking Consultant

"As I continue to develop my tutoring practice, I've realized that tutoring is not at all what I imagined. Prior to tutoring, I believed that the tutor is meant to have all the answers, and most often, I do not. The process of tutoring is a collaborative process. Although I've only been tutoring for about a month now, I've realized that this practice is an exercise in building empathy and connection with people, through helping students reach their objective of writing an essay, application, resume, etc. It requires vulnerability both on the part of the tutor as well as the student to acknowledge that we are mutually learning from each other."

Dana started tutoring at the Writing & Speaking Studio in Summer 2022, and she tutors both writing and speaking. To read her entire statement, please visit Dana's e-Portfolio.

Cynthia Griffin, Peer Writing and Speaking Consultant

"As a tutor, I want to create an environment within my sessions that makes peers feel open to asking questions. Part of being able to do this is through approaching a session with a sense of curiosity about the student’s thought process. When I leave open spaces in sessions to allow for questioning, both from me and from the student, it creates an environment of inquiry instead of isolation."

Cynthia joined the Writing & Speaking Studio in Spring 2022, and she tutors both writing and speaking. To read her entire statement, please visit Cynthia's e-Portfolio.

Muskaan Vatvani, Peer Writing and Speaking Consultant

"Writing is a very vulnerable and beautiful experience that can be intimidating to face by oneself, let alone share with others. Creating a safe space for students to share their work with me is my biggest goal as a tutor. I want them to feel comfortable expressing themselves openly and authentically through their work. My hope is that students can come to the studio aiming to complete an assignment but leave with so much more."

Muskaan started tutoring at the Studio in Spring 2021. The rest of her philosophy and more of her thoughts on tutoring and learning can be found on Muskaan's e-Portfolio.