FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Tutoring rates are competitive. Editing rates vary, depending on type of editing, and we discuss the differences up front. I discount for extended projects. If a project goes more quickly than anticipated, fee goes down. I like to spend time talking to a client to understand the tone and voice they want to convey. I look for sincerity in their message and conviction about their project. I give those back.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
TUTORING SERVICES: I meet with the student. We get a sense of how we relate and if we would like to work together. If so, we meet again and I have the student write a diagnostic piece of writing. After I assess the student's writing, we discuss areas of writing we will emphasize. Along the way, I will be diagnosing reading skills and have a similar discussions. FOR EDITORIAL SERVICES: Request and review sample of the work to edit. Determine nature of work: proofing, editing, rewriting, or writing. Talk things over with client. Provide clear timeline and fee structure. Provide regular updates on work, and receive feedback. Review and respond to feedback; make changes if needed. Provide overall final scan of material. FOR TUTORING: Meet with student in person or at least over phone. Talk, informally. Get to know each other. Determine if we would LIKE to work together. If so, assess student skills. Set up tentative program. Get to work. Enjoy.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Masters in English from Santa Clara University. Secondary Education Credential. Community College Literature Credential (valid for life). Thirty-five years teaching college writing and literature courses. Ran the English Writing Tutoring Center at Ohlone College. Published essays, articles, stories, poems, and newspaper and magazine features. Published a book of poems and produced one play.