1st lesson free
Cecilia profile and its contact details have been verified by our experts
Cecilia
- Rate R327
- Response 1h
R327/h
Contact
1st lesson free
- English
- Creative writing
- Redaction
- English Literature
Tufts University graduate and experienced writing tutor. Teaches English, essay writing, and college application essays. Specializes in helping anxious or reluctant writers discover their voice.
- English
- Creative writing
- Redaction
- English Literature
Lesson location
About Cecilia
I graduated summa cum laude from Tufts University where I studied English, Environmental Studies, Sociology, and Civic Studies. As an undergrad, I wrote an honors thesis recognized with Highest Honors and was recognized by the university for my creative nonfiction, so I bring strong academic writing expertise. But what I think sets me apart most is my tolerance for imperfection and my judgment-free approach — I don't believe in making a student feel small for a "bad" first draft or a learning difference. I create a collaborative, pressure-free space where students feel safe to write badly on the way to writing well.
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About the lesson
- Primary
- Secondary
- Matric/GCSE
- +7
levels :
Primary
Secondary
Matric/GCSE
AS Level
A Level
BTech
Adult education
Masters
Doctorate
MBA
- English
Languages in which the lesson is available :
English
My approach to tutoring is rooted in a simple belief: everyone can be a writer, and writing struggles are almost never about talent. During my time as a Head Writing Fellow at Tufts University, I worked closely with a wide range of students — including those with learning disabilities, language barriers, and serious writing anxiety — and learned that the most effective tutoring starts with building confidence, not correcting commas.
I use a philosophy modeled on Universal Design for writing instruction, which means I tailor each session to the individual in front of me rather than applying a one-size-fits-all method. I start every first session by getting to know my student as a writer, not just as someone with an assignment due: What's your process like? What parts of writing feel hardest? What has and hasn't worked with tutors or teachers in the past? This helps me understand not just what a student needs help with, but how they need that help delivered.
A typical session starts with a quick check-in, followed by reading through the student's current draft or assignment together. Rather than immediately marking up every sentence-level error, I focus first on big-picture issues — structure, argument, clarity of ideas — because I've found that hyperfixating on small mistakes early on can shut a student down before real growth happens. Once the bones of the piece are solid, we move into line-level editing, and I explain the "why" behind grammar and style choices so students build lasting skills, not just corrected drafts. I always end sessions with a clear, encouraging next step for their independent revision.
I tutor students of any age—from elementary and middle schoolers to high schoolers and college students—in English composition, essay writing, creative writing, and college application essays. I especially welcome students who feel discouraged or anxious about writing, including those with learning disabilities like dyslexia, ESL students, and anyone who has been told writing "just isn't their thing." I don't need to know the specifics of a diagnosis or a struggle to help — I just need to know the student.
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Rates
Rate
- R327
Package rates
- 5h: R1633
- 10h: R3267
online
- R327/h
travel
- + R5
free lesson
The free first lesson with Cecilia allows you to get to know the tutor and discuss your needs and expectations.
- 1h
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