3 Lessons I've Learned Through Tutoring and Coaching

Patience is key. Each student learns at a different pace, and that is okay. It is my job to accommodate to their needs and help them wherever I can. There were times where the way I was demonstrating or explaining something wasn't working, and I had to recognize that and change my strategy. I might not be successful the first, second, or even third try, but there will always be a way I can make something comprehensible for my student. This leads me to my next point.

Communication makes a difference. An explanation that works for me will not work for everybody. I prefer an explanation that is short and straight to the point, but some people prefer lengthy, in-depth explanations. Somebody may even prefer a demonstration instead of an explanation. Even when it comes to that, some people like to watch somebody do it and then do it themselves while others would rather do it step-by-step with me next to them. It really depends on the student, and I try to be as receptive to their needs as I can be.

Teaching comes with a lot of character building. Teaching seems simple when you're the student, but when the roles are reversed and you become the teacher, it is much harder than it seems. It can challenge you in ways you've never thought of before. There are many different components that go into a being a good teacher, and it's a skill that can always be improved upon. Even though I'm not the student, I'm always learning about ways I can explain better, listen better, empathize better, etc. Not only does this help me with teaching but it can be applied to all areas of life.