Award-Winning Tutors from Oakland University

I suppose that a personal teaching statement needs to answer two questions of the sort that one might be asked in a job interview: “Why do you want to teach?” and “What do you hope to accomplish?” I could easily say something about wanting to “wake the student up," “broaden their horizons,” or some variant thereof. Every teacher wants to do those things. When we use those sorts of hackneyed phrases without considering what they mean, we are speaking a dead language. We are partaking in an exercise in Latin grammar; making sure the form is correct without regard for the content. For example, students learn the proper language of “social studies” in elementary school: terms like “culture,” “prejudice,” etc. They repeat these words like they complete the algebraic expression x = 2 + 2; automatically and without considering whether those numbers stand for something in the real world. It's boring and UNPRODUCTIVE for everyone involved.What I want to impart is the ability to practice a sort of “meta cognition.” I want to suggest to that what we call thought typically follows the same procedure as filling in that equation. Real deliberative, reflexive thought takes place BEHIND the number crunching. If one pays attention closely, it even has a different feeling; a sensation in a region somewhat posterior to that felt when calculating. This is what we mean when we talk about “waking students up.” It is the ubiquitous goal of undergraduate education and it should be – if we as educators, are willing to exemplify the practice of poking and prodding at our own clichés until they are jarred from their comas -- until they begin speaking the way they did before they were routinized.Upon the completion of that last paragraph, my ode to reflexivity has doubled back on itself and made me wonder if it also some unconscious expression of my cognitive programming, the legacy of late 60's hippy culture, etc. What do I hope to accomplish? I want to exemplify for my students exactly this kind of probing: a question from a question; a thought in motion doubling back into itself and expanded outward to infinity. When this occurs, student "engagement" is no longer a problem, because a real question has been asked. It fills the consciousness and demands an answer, which demands further questions and so on.

I believe that every child is capable of great things and deserves an individualized educational experience. I will do my best to ensure that my students will feel adequate in every subject and have confidence that they can achieve anything they put their mind to.

I graduated in April 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts in French Language and Literature with a Teaching English as a Second Language minor. I plan on becoming a translator/interpreter/ESL teacher. I taught Hispanic adults at the intermediate level for 4 months as a student teacher. I was an ESL teacher's assistant for a month during the summer. The class consisted of 2nd graders preparing for the upcoming school year. While in high school I tutored a couple of girls for a whole school year (English, French). I also tutored someone who was a French beginner and I tutored a Venezuelan in English. Right now I am an online English teacher for Chinese children and I tutor an American in Polish. I love teaching, it's been my dream ever since I have been a child. Even though it's a lot of hard work, I find it very rewarding especially when a student finally understands something!

I am a graduate of Purdue University. I earned a Bachelor of Science with majors in physics, mathematics, and statistics. I am currently attending Oakland University where I earning a Master of Science in physics. I teach an introductory physics lab and perform research in the field of cosmic inflation. I tutor a wide range of physics and math topics. I believe that students learn the material best when they understand why it's true and can relate it to situations that they are familiar with. I try to connect the material to real world situations whenever possible.

My goal as a tutor is to help students with Spanish. I like to work with all levels. If the student likes a particular form of learning I will try to work with the style they like. I like writing notes for them and working on grammar.

I am a passionate educator that enjoys learning and helping others learn. Providing individualized help in understanding challenging subject matter and helping you achieve your "light bulb" moments when things click is why I enjoy tutoring.I have a Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, and I have been tutoring, teaching, and mentoring students in engineering for over 10 years. I have 3 years of experience teaching both in person and online courses at 2 different Top 100 undergraduate engineering universities. My passion subjects are thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, mechanical design, and the FE exam, but I'm a quick learner and can provide guidance in other related subjects as needed.

I'm a college student from Michigan currently building my own business. I spend a lot of time on my computer toying with programs, playing video games, and learning about chess. I currently attend Oakland University, and I also take some classes at Macomb Community College. I currently tutor algebra, business, marketing, writing, and cost accounting. I believe all students have the skills in front of them to learn, but sometimes just need help understanding. I am always around to help anyone that believes they could use my help. I am always willing to listen to your needs, and do whatever I can!

I enjoy being able to share my knowledge. I like to try to teach not only how to do something, but also why it works and the reasoning behind it, especially when it comes to math.

I am an experienced Mechanical Engineer currently trying to make my way into the product design arena. I recently moved to Oregon from Michigan in pursuit of this goal! I have always loved and had a skill for math and physics. This was only strengthened through two degrees in engineering.Although my formal tutoring didn't start until college, in high school I did some volunteer tutoring and was often helping my friends with their physics and calculus homework. When I did tutor, I tutored mainly in all levels of math.

Together, we can! I enjoy learning and teaching others because knowledge is power. What do you want to be powerful in today?

Every student learns in their own unique way. My passion is to discover that learning style and to customize my teaching style in order to fit that unique student. A student who struggles with a certain subject does not necessarily mean lack of ability; it may simply mean that the student is being taught in a manner that is incompatible with his/her learning style. The key is to deliver the material and concepts in a way that is compatible with the student. Next it is encourage and affirm the student as he/she begins to understand what was once unclear."The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn" Ralph Waldo Emerson

My name is Holly Sirka and I am an English and theatre teacher to middle school and high school students. I love reading, writing, hanging with my husband, playing with my puppy Pippa, shopping with my sister, going to museums, seeing plays through local theaters, and trying new restaurants.

I am a college graduate with a B.A. in Communication and a minor in Broadcasting. Communicating and engaging with people is a passion of mine, especially when being able to help them learn and grow. In high school, I participated in a co-op experience which allowed me to student teach in two different classrooms my senior year. I taught 2nd grade and 5th grade and fell in love with the difference I was able to make. I ended up taking a bit of a different route in college, but that passion has not left me. I also taught competitive and recreational dance classes for about 8 years, so I have had great and versatile opportunities to influence and inspire students. I hope to continue to help students better understand and thrive in their classes through tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

I am a certified and highly qualified secondary English teacher in the metro Detroit area. I am looking to help middle and high school students with any area of English they need - grammar, vocabulary, writing, reading, analysis, etc. - in addition to helping them stay organized with school work. I have taught and tutored many ages in many places - all the way from elementary students in rural China to college students in a university writing center.I can also help with ACT/SAT test prep and college admissions essays, and I am happy to work with students of all academic and English levels. I look forward to working with you!

I am a current doctoral student, studying Educational Leadership. Additionally, I am a Dean at a middle/high school. I hold a Master's in Special Education and a Bachelor's in Journalism. I believe that all students can learn, but the teaching strategies should vary. I enjoy teaching and tutoring because it is a chance to open academic doors and turn on the light for students.My areas of tutoring includes English (Reading/Writing) - elementary, middle, high school, college and other adult learners; social studies, college essays and PSAT, SAT and ACT prep.Additionally, I have taught College English and Writing for more than five years.My background includes extensive writing experience, as I have also worked as a journalist and public relations professional.Outside of academia, I really enjoy cooking, baking and football.

Hi everyone! My name is Mackenzie and I'm from Michigan. I'm currently supervising a caseload of clients at a small practice. I've received both a BCaBA and BCBA credential and have lots of great study tips. I've worked in a variety of settings, so I will have lots of examples for real-life application as well. One of my biggest beliefs is differentiating instruction that best fits your learning style, so I'm more than willing to help in any way that helps you achieve your goal. Let's get studying!

I am an elementary teacher. I received my Masters in Elementary Education, grades K-8 and a Bachelor's in Linguistics with a certification in ESL. This is my 4th year as a teacher. I have been a substitute teacher, tutored all ages in reading and math. I believe that every student can learn and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your academic goals. Outside of teaching.

Hi. I am an experienced social studies teacher who loves helping students reach their goals. I also try and make the subject as relevant to your life as possible. I can teach in a variety of ways so I can customize the experience to meet your needs. I hope to hear from you!

I have a Elementary teaching degree as well as a Special Education teaching degree with endorsements in cognitive impairment and autism spectrum disorder. I have been teaching for 9 years and I love to help students learn, especially when they are struggling. I enjoy the challenge of finding new and different approaches that fit each individuals strengths and interests. One of my own children has Autism. I have been fortunate to be able to learn from my experiences as a parent in my teaching.

I earned my B.S. in Elementary Education with a Language Arts endorsement from Oakland University in Rochester, MI. Shortly after graduation I moved to Arizona to teach fourth grade. I taught an inclusive fourth grade classroom for four school years. In the classroom I was responsible for teaching all subjects (Reading, Writing, Math, Science, Health, and Social Studies). I was also responsible to help my students be prepared to take and pass the 4th grade AIMS standardized test. In addition to teaching I stayed after school to tutor students that were struggling in math and/or reading two times a week.During my third year of teaching I went back to school to earn my Master's degree. I have since graduated from Arizona State University with a Masters of Education with a focus on Applied Behavior Analysis. Once I earned my Master's degree, I resigned from teaching in public school and now work with children with autism 1:1 in their home and community (including school).Even though I have experience in all subject areas, I am most passionate about math, reading and writing up to the 6h grade level.Though I do not work specifically for schools anymore, I am still passionate about education. I believe everyone is capable of being successful given an encouraging and supportive environment. Furthermore I believe there is no right way to learn and I have many different concepts and techniques to teach each subject and help my clients be happy, successful, and confident about learning. In my spare time I enjoy hiking, reading, and visiting new places.

I have a life-long commitment to education. I believe that, as an educator, I possess a unique form of authority; and the natural purpose of authority is to empower the steward of that authority to lead others to fulfillment. Thus, I have regarded my position as an educator with the utmost respect, as I have come to understand the importance of every moment I have with my students.Every lesson, interaction, assessment, project, and class discussion has the potential to bring each student one step closer to achieving their goals. When I do see my students achieve the success they seek, it is a profound moment, as these individuals commonly overcome academic and personal barriers.As an educator, I am committed to serving my students, community, and institutions. I am constantly seeking ways to improve and expand my present skill set so that I can maximize my potential, and the potential of my students in-and-out of the classroom. I have a rich interdisciplinary approach to teaching, and experience using a wide range of teaching styles and modalities.

Ni Hao! This is Mrs. Yan. I am a professional Mandarin teacher (Master's in Secondary Education and Teaching; Michigan State K-12 Teaching License Holder), with more than 7 years teaching experience from all levels. If you are here you are serious about being able to speak and understand Chinese! My mission is to HELP YOU MAKE IT HAPPEN! Launch your online Chinese learning journey with me!

I'm a current senior undergraduate student majoring in Biomedical Sciences who recently took the MCAT. I scored a 520 (131/126/131/132) when I took the exam this summer, self-studying for only 3 months and starting from a 502 diagnostic score. I was able to balance a job, volunteering, STEM tutoring, and my MCAT studying over this period.I specialize in tutoring all of C/P and B/B (primarily biochemistry). I have an extensive history tutoring high school students in various STEM courses, transitioning into being a supplemental instruction leader for my Physiology and Organic Chemistry 1 and 2 courses for university students. Working with me as your tutor, I guarantee that you will be able to overcome any weaknesses that you may have in the sciences. I adopt a personalized approach for all of my students, individualizing my resources, instruction, and tips for everyone that I tutor. I also have countless tips for time management, resources, and scheduling that I can offer which will assist any student's study plan.

I'm a fourth year medical student in Michigan and an avid learner. I have years of tutoring and mentoring experience from high school and undergrad. My expertise lies in the sciences, as well as standardized exams such as ACT and MCAT. I can also help students with essay writing, whether for English classes or for college/graduate school applications. Often students get perplexed by complex ideas that can often be broken down into much simpler parts. I am here to help with that. Everyone has different ways of learning and through my experience, I've learned how to work with that for the benefit of the student.

I have taught as a math instructor and tutor for the last few years. I began tutoring mathematics as an undergrad in the math learning center at Michigan Tech, where I earned my BS in Applied Math. I then started teaching as a graduate assistant at Oakland University, where I earned my MS in the Spring of 2014. My goal is to help any individual, no matter the age, succeed in mathematics. Outside of academia, I enjoy various summer and winter sports, such as snowboarding, running, and volleyball.

I believe that everyone has a story. We can enjoy them all if we're willing to listen and just "be" in the moment. There are many times when I shake my head and think to myself "only me". I find shenanigans in the most unlikely places, I'm always being told not to make friends in the grocery, and I am a huge nerd (self proclaimed). I am married, and I have five children. All of my children have four feet and tails (betcha I got you for a second). I have two dogs and three cats.I am interested in all things crafty, and I spend more time on Pinterest than I'd care to admit. I love making things, and I take great joy in spending hours in the craft studio that is set up in my basement. I also love shoes. I have a Carrie Bradshaw sized obsession, and although I couldn't draw you a house with all the tools in the world, I can sketch outlines of shoes and have several in a book. In my next life, I want to design them. I also love being outside, and when the weather is nice, you can find me on the deck, in my hammock with a book, my notebook, and sun tea. I also obnoxiously take pictures of everything.I started writing when I was in middle school, and I have not stopped since. I used to write stories about my friends and I would often type them (on a TYPEWRITER!) and give them as gifts. My family didn't own a computer until I was in high school. I continue to write flash fiction and poetry as well as creative non-fiction. I have been to several writers' retreats and I was a summer fellow last year in the Meadowbrook Writing Project.I detest the poetry of T.S. Eliot, but I owe him for the day I decided to go to graduate school. I felt changed after leaving a modern poetry class one day, and I credit that class with helping to turn the tide for me.My favorite writers include James Joyce (although I have not finished Ulysses), Sylvia Plath, and I adore Frank McCourt. I also enjoy some more modern fiction, and some of my favorites are Cecelia Ahern and Marissa de los Santos.I teach writing, and there is not another job in this world that I ever want to do. I am a writer, and that's what makes me whole.

I am a native of Detroit, MI and I've always loved teaching others. I received my education at Oakland University where I am currently obtaining a degree in Criminal Justice. I have been a mentor and tutor since my high school years. Working with youth that are having issues reading and writing are especially rewarding to me as I struggled with reading at a young age myself. I love interactive tutoring, including games, music, and art into my sessions to make them more interesting and engaging. My hobbies include reading, writing, hiking, and refurbishing furniture. I can not wait to meet you!

I am a certified English teacher with ten years of experience in a NYC public school. I have received my Bachelors Degree in English from Oakland University in Michigan and my Masters in Teaching English from Columbia University Teachers College. I am very familiar with the ELA curriculum. I am very good at scaffolding assignments to take students step by step and teach them how to think about literature and analysis. I have taught reading comprehension strategies that helps to understand the material on a deeper level. I connect well with students of all ages and my style is fun and engaging.I have also taught Regents Prep courses, and I am very familiar with the ELA Regents and the new Common Core Regents material.I am available for online tutoring as well. I have taught students in China through an online system and am very comfortable with any medium.I speak fluent Russian.In my free time I enjoy playing tennis, exploring New York City, going to museums and traveling.

I'm back to tutoring and editing after spending a few years in sales and management. Before I took time off to be at home with my son, I taught at Oakland Community College as an adjunct English instructor, and wrote and edited for Gale Cengage, an educational publisher.I started tutoring at Oakland University in the Rhetoric Department the year I graduated.

I hold a Bachelors of Science in Biology and have worked as a tutor for over four years and have tutored students ranging from Elementary to College. I have tutored in many areas from Algebra to Reading Comprehension. My degree helps in my tutoring abilities as it allows me to utilize all my skills in the areas of Math, Science and English all at once. I help students in classes by helping them to utilize their knowledge through practice problems which I create to help them increase their comprehension within areas such as math.

As a passionate tutor with a Bachelor's in Industrial Engineering from Oakland University, I specialize in math and science subjects, including Algebra, Geometry, Pre-calc, and Calculus. With over 2 years of tutoring experience and a background as a teaching assistant in college, I thrive on creating tailored lesson plans that meet each student's unique learning style. My approach emphasizes hands-on problem-solving, as I believe that students learn best when actively engaged in the material. I find joy in helping students grasp challenging concepts and discover the answers to their questions. Outside of academics, I enjoy coaching gymnastics, which has enhanced my ability to connect with students of all ages. My goal is to foster a supportive and motivating environment where every student can succeed. I love reading in my spare time!

I am passionate about education and dedicated to fostering a positive learning environment where students can thrive academically and personally. My experience as a teacher has equipped me with the skills to create engaging and inclusive lesson plans that cater to diverse learning styles. I am committed to inspiring my students to become lifelong learners who are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the world.

I have degrees in Elementary Education, English as a Second Language Arts, and Reading from Michigan State University and Oakland University. I have been a teacher for ten years, teaching kindergarten, third grade, fourth grade, and fifth grade. I also worked as a reading specialist for fourth-sixth graders. I love working with students to help them achieve their academic potential! I bring a fun, approachable viewpoint to learning. My favorite subject to teach is literacy, because I love working with students to get excited about unlocking the world through reading and writing. I am very passionate and enthusiastic.

I am a Student Affairs Professional with over 8 years of experience working closely with Students throughout their college journey. My approach is supportive, structured, and student-centered. I focus on helping students feel confident in their writing while ensuring their voice stays authentic to who they are. Whether you're feeling stuck getting started, refining a draft, or navigating application timelines, I'm here to help make the process more manageable and less stressful.

I believe good teaching begins with curiosity, patience, and the belief that no one should feel incapable simply because something hasn't clicked yet. I enjoy finding the explanation, example, or approach that makes a difficult idea finally make sense. Whether I'm helping someone prepare for an interview, strengthen their writing, speak with confidence, or learn a new technology, my goal is to help them understand, not just memorize, and leave knowing they can do it themselves.

I am in my fifth year of teaching and have experience teaching Title I Math, 4th grade, and Middle School Math and Social Studies. I have tutored at my school for four years, and am excited to bring my experience and enthusiasm to Varsity Tutors!When I am not tutoring or teaching, I enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter, exploring the outdoors, and following Detroit area sports.

I love to learn: I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Administration with an emphasis in nonprofit management at Oakland University, and I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Brigham Young University. I chose an undergraduate major in English and minors in Editing and in Spanish. While at BYU, I was very involved with the Writing Fellows program which gave me the opportunity to be a specialized writing tutor for several years. I worked one-on-one with my fellow undergraduates to help improve them their writing in a variety of courses including humanities, religion, recreation management, and English. I also helped tutor new writing tutors as they came into the program through my position as a teaching assistant. I love to empower hesitant writers to come up with their own ideas and write using their own words. Helping students with reading comprehension and literature is also my favorite. When I am not reading, writing, and tutoring, you can find me outside hiking, practicing yoga, or navigating through whitewater rapids, most recently with my new husband.

I am very fortunate to be able to tutor students. There is no better feeling than to see the "light bulb" go on during a session. After building rapport, especially with reluctant learners, I always stay positive and compliment my students on even the smallest gain in understanding. Certainly, a little light-hearted humor goes a long way! In addition, I spend a lot of time preparing customized lessons, and being sure I present material in a variety of ways, so that a student's learning style is supported. Also, I remain flexible with booking sessions, and keep communication with parents/guardians open, honest, and frequent. I also teach study skills and techniques to students to help them become lifelong learners. Ultimately, my goal is to help students feel more confident, raise self-esteem, and become more successful.

Learning should feel joyful, and I love turning tough skills in reading, math, and writing into fun, confidence-boosting wins. With years of teaching and tutoring experience, I break concepts down in simple, friendly ways and tailor lessons to what each student loves. Those "I get it!" smiles are my favorite part of every session.

I believe every student can thrive in math when given the right tools and approach. My goal isn't just to help students improve their grades, but to ease math anxiety and build problem-solving confidence. Whether you're working to bridge gaps, stay ahead, or tackle targeted coursework, I'm here to make math approachable.