Though I’ve worn many hats as a staff member of Literacy Volunteers, being a tutor is probably my favorite role. I’ve tutored my current student, Elena Sokolova from Russia, for 3 years now.
I remember when Elena came to her first tutoring session 3 years ago. She had only been in the country for a few months and spoke at a beginning level of English. As we struggled to communicate through strings of words and picture drawings, I saw in her a great determination to learn the English language. She arrived to every subsequent session ready to work, and requested many homework assignments!
During our time together, I’ve watched as Elena has made great improvements in her English. She has bravely sought new opportunities for English practice outside of our tutoring sessions. She’s listened to audio books, watched many English movies, attended our group classes, and even found a volunteer opportunity in an office.
Last summer, Elena’s advanced level of English enabled her to enroll in Quinsigamond Community College’s certification program as a financial assistant. With this, I am confident that she will soon achieve her ultimate goal—finding satisfying employment related to her skills in accounting. It has been a real pleasure to help her find her way in America.