Sep 2023 Tutor of the Month - Elias Varn

1. Please introduce yourself.

My name is Elias and I’m a senior at the George Washington University in Washington DC. I’m majoring in Korean language and literature with a double minor in history and sociology. I’m from Asheville, a town in the Southern Appalachian region of the US. I enjoy making art, reading, and hiking. Nice to meet you!

2. When did you start Ringle and how did you find out about it?

I started Ringle in December 2022. One of my classmates from my high school in Korea recommended that I start working for Ringle, and I’m so grateful that she let me know what a great job being a Ringle tutor is.

3. Can you share your most memorable lesson on Ringle?

I’ve helped students with personal essays, interview prep, and even YouTube video scripts. The lesson that sticks out to me the most though is when I met another alumnus of the high school that I attended when I lived in Korea. It was a moment that made the world feel a lot smaller, and it was great to hear her own perspectives on her experiences while we worked on the lesson.

4. What makes your teaching style unique?

My in depth studies of Korean linguistics have helped me connect with Korean Ringle users, identify their errors, and explain to them in terms they best understand. Knowing that a consonant of the Korean alphabet is why people might struggle to differentiate their R and L sounds, or why the idea of "noonchi" (눈치) is not easily translated helps me educate those with this Korean linguistic background with better ease. Building confidence is another essential focus of mine, because in my own language learning experience, I learned that “confidence is key”. Finally, I do my best to deliver empathetic criticism, with solutions and helpful tips on how to overcome whatever mistakes may be made.

5. How often do you teach on Ringle and how do you manage your time?

I teach on Ringle almost every day! Fortunately, Ringle allows me to schedule around my busy schedule of classes, internships, or other obligations. The flexibility to work remotely while also only having flexible hours helps me maintain a harmonious work-life balance. I make sure to schedule as far ahead as possible to get the most bookings and allow my regular students to get a slot.

6. Any advice for new Ringle tutors?

Learn your own strengths and share your talents with your students. Most service jobs help you with small talk, and if you’ve written well in college, focus on writing revisions. If you have experience working in your institution’s career services center, you help Ringle students prepare for interviews. Whatever your background, you have something to bring to the table! Hone in on certain lesson types and the students who need your talents will find you! Finally, enjoy the fun that comes with meeting new, talented, and interesting people!

Tutor of the Month receives:

• Cash prize of $100
• Recognition on Ringle's web and social media platforms
• An opportunity to record a demo lesson for other tutors

Ringle selects a tutor every month based on their ratings, consistency of lessons, and reviews.