Tutoring?

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Hi all,

Does anybody have any experience tutoring or teaching one of their special interest subjects?

I have really taken to my physiology course that I am enrolled in and have made some friends by helping explain the material to them. This is one of the most feared courses among allied health science majors, and I would really feel great helping people succeed in a subject many struggle at. It also might help my social skills since studying/tutoring with other people is when my social skills are the sharpest.

The only thing intimidating to me is the fact I would have to organize this venture on my own. I would also have to compete with the M.D.'s that they have tutoring at the center. One of them is great and I would never want to compete with her, but the other is quite rude and condescending and I would have no qualms about competing with him. In fact, the way the courses are set up I would only have to compete directly with the rude one.

Any advice or experience would be greatly appreciated!

I have a BA in English Literature and I have tutored English literature and composition for grades 7 to 12. I used a handbook called The Practical Tutor, which explains many aspects of university level tutoring, such as lesson plans and ways to get reticent students to do more writing practice. Some things to know: figure out your average prep time per student so that you can cost out your hourly rate, and factor in the cost of your transporation. I used a business plan template that I got from my bank. Keep accurate records so that you will know that you are being paid on time. Some jurisdictions let you write off some business expenses (like professional memberships) on your income tax. Check with local government for rules and regs. Work safely: meet at the public library or university commons, not at a residence. Lesson planning: try to get as much information about the class as possible: the syllabus, reading list, and lab schedules. Use this information to help you with the lesson plan. Confidentiality: most students I helped did not want anyone to know they were getting any kind of help. Explain your confidentiality policy to the student the first time you meet them. If you see the student at the coffee shop or library, let them initiate the contact. I have summarized it as best as possible in one paragraph - the rest is in the handbook. It may help you, even though your subject is different. Good luck in your venture.

I tutor in writing and reading. I do it on-line and am able to pay for food that way. My SSDI check does not cover everything! So, I can make up to a certain amount working, and I do that with tutoring on-line.

Writing is a special interest and a necessary survival skill, due to my nonverbal learning disability.

I was a special education teacher for many years and sometimes tutor in the evenings. I find it very enjoyable and a great way to work on my social skills. I have also met some rather interesting people. Just do your best to help each client understand the relavent material and let their success guide new people to your door. If you're clients are successful they will not hesitate to tell their social network. It's one thing that you can definately trust NTs for.