Dear students,

When I got the job that eventually allowed me to meet you, it took me a while to realize I would be tutoring live human beings, who had their own feelings and concerns and quirks. I was too excited about my own success, relishing that irreplaceable “new job” feeling.

I signed the ten-week English tutor contract without much thought on how I would feel when the end date rolled around. It was only when the first one of you walked into my cubicle and sat next to me that I realized I had no idea where to begin, much less how to truly connect with each of you. It seemed a lot easier in my mind.

I’m good at what I do, I know that. But would I be good at helping others reach the same achievements? Good enough to see real results over an ever-shortening ten week period? I wasn’t so sure.

There weren’t many of you, but you’ve each made me realize that I had indeed made a difference. That I made enough of an impression for you, months later, to ask whether I would be back to tutor you for another term.

I would love to, of course. The job was great because it wasn’t just a job. Students, I never told you this, but there have been times where I’ve lost sleep knowing you have an exam the next morning we prepared for together, agonizing over whether anything I taught you stuck long enough to lead to a visible improvement.

Students, a lot has happened in my life over the few months since we last worked together. Namely, I got the job I’d been waiting for. I’m preparing to start my journey as a graduate student. Coming back to tutor you, while incredibly tempting, would require nothing short of splitting myself in three, and you’re all worth heaps more than a measly third of my time. I’m sorry that I can’t be there, but know I wish I could, and I’m rooting for you.

Something I learned about tutoring you that’s stuck with me long after our last meeting is this: it is not only a tutor’s job to increase your grades, but also, and perhaps slightly more importantly, to boost your self-confidence. I don’t remember how many times I’ve told you you can do it, but it probably resonated more than the ingredients of a topic sentence. And that’s okay. Why? Because even just an inkling more of belief in your own capabilities is plenty to alter your attitude in the exam room.

Students, you are so much more than the number scrawled in red pen at the bottom of the grading rubric. Please know that.

I had so much fun working with all of you, and I wish you all the best.

Cheers,

Your tutor