Getting Started as a Private Tutor
Watch/Listen to this Episode Getting Started as a Private Tutor
Chris Loper, a private tutor, discusses his journey into tutoring, the dynamics of his job, and his approach to education in this episode of Time We Discuss.
Chris starts by explaining his flexible work schedule, which allows him to engage in outdoor activities and personal projects during the day, as he typically begins tutoring after 3 PM when students are out of school. His path to becoming a tutor was unconventional; he was initially a ski bum and bartender before an injury led him to move to the city and explore other career options. With a background in sociology and history, but no formal education training, Chris found his way into tutoring through a company called Northwest Educational Services in Seattle.
At Northwest, Chris was able to gain valuable experience and mentorship, working alongside other tutors and receiving guidance from more experienced colleagues. This environment helped him hone his tutoring skills, especially in subjects where he was less confident. The pandemic, however, shifted much of his work to Zoom, which Chris found challenging. Eventually, he decided to start his own tutoring business in his neighborhood, gradually building a client base through word of mouth and local advertising.
Chris highlights the importance of a broad knowledge base in multiple subjects, as it increases a tutor's employability and ability to meet diverse student needs. He explains that while math is the most commonly requested subject, especially post-pandemic due to learning gaps, he also helps students with executive function skills like organization and time management. Chris believes that understanding psychology and neuroscience is crucial for effective tutoring, as it allows him to teach students better study techniques and problem-solving methods.
Starting out at a tutoring facility, according to Chris, can provide essential experience and mentorship, making it easier to transition into private tutoring. He currently tutors around 30 students a week, with each session lasting about 50 minutes. His busiest times are Sundays and after school on weekdays, while Fridays and Saturdays are less popular for tutoring.
In addition to helping students with content, Chris also assists them in developing effective study habits, ensuring they can retain and recall information for exams. He emphasizes active studying techniques, where students engage with the material beyond simple review, to improve their learning outcomes. Overall, Chris’s approach to tutoring is holistic, focusing not just on subject matter expertise but also on fostering better learning strategies in his students.
Links from the Show
- South Cove Tutoring
- College Coaching
- Habit Coaching
- How to find a satisfying career using the Ikigai diagram
- Free online course about the science of learning
- Chris's education blog
Also Mentioned in the Show
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