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Award-Winning American Literature Tutors

Justin

Certified Tutor

9+ years

Justin

Doctor of Philosophy, Computational Mathematics
Justin's other Tutor Subjects
AP Calculus BC
AP Calculus AB
Pre-Algebra
Multivariable Calculus

I am an aspiring applied mathematician, with particular interest in image processing and climate science. I graduated in May 2017 from Washington University in St. Louis with a bachelor's in physics and mathematics, and am beginning a PhD program in September 2017 at the University of Chicago in Com...

Education

Washington University in St. Louis

Bachelor's in Physics and Mathematics

University of Chicago

Doctor of Philosophy, Computational Mathematics

Test Scores
SAT
1560
ACT
33
Justin

Certified Tutor

8+ years

Justin

Doctor of Philosophy, English
Justin's other Tutor Subjects
Calculus
Algebra
PSAT Writing Skills
SAT Writing and Language

I am a college instructor with ten years experience in the classroom as a teacher and tutor. Originally from South Carolina, I went to school in Pennsylvania and currently live in Alabama. I believe that students learn best through practice and approaching learning through a relaxed lens, thinking a...

Education

University of South Carolina

Bachelor in Arts, English

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Doctor of Philosophy, English

Test Scores
SAT
1530
Sarah

Certified Tutor

9+ years

Sarah

Bachelor of Economics, Economics
Sarah's other Tutor Subjects
Calculus
Algebra
ACT Writing
ACT English

I am an incoming freshman at Northwestern University, and I will be studying economics and international studies. I have lots of experience in mentoring students individually and teaching in the classroom through being a student intern for a sophomore honors English class. I love working with studen...

Education

Northwestern University

Bachelor of Economics, Economics

Test Scores
SAT
1510
ACT
34
Karishma

Certified Tutor

Karishma

Bachelor in Arts
Karishma's other Tutor Subjects
Calculus
Algebra
Anatomy
Anatomy & Physiology

I am very dedicated to helping students excel in school and in helping them develop study methods and styles that work best for them and that will serve them throughout school. I previously tutored with Boys Hope Girls Hope in Evanston, IL. I tutored middle and high school students in Spanish and En...

Education

Northwestern University

Bachelor in Arts

Test Scores
ACT
34
Brittney

Certified Tutor

8+ years

Brittney

Master of Arts, English
Brittney's other Tutor Subjects
Calculus
Algebra
PSAT Writing Skills
SAT Reading

I'm a graduate of Princeton University (2009), with a degree in Comparative Literature. I'll be receiving my masters degree in English from Grand Valley State University this fall and I'm looking forward to working with students like you! I've been teaching and tutoring students since 2008 and I spe...

Education

Grand Valley State University

Master of Arts, English

Princeton University

B.A. in Comparative Literature

Test Scores
SAT
1440
Emily

Certified Tutor

9+ years

Emily

Master of Public Health (MPH), concentration in Epidemiology and Global Health
Emily's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Middle School Math
Calculus
Algebra

I am a Yale graduate with over 8 years experience tutoring students from a variety of backgrounds. I recently graduated from the Yale School of Public Health with a MPH concentrating in Epidemiology and Global Health. I also received my B.S. from Yale with a double major in Molecular, Cellular, and ...

Education

Yale University

Master of Public Health (MPH), concentration in Epidemiology and Global Health

Yale School of Public Health

Master in Public Health, Public Health

Yale University

Bachelor of Science (B.S.), double major in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology and French

Test Scores
Perfect Score
SAT
1550
ACT
36
Connor

Certified Tutor

6+ years

Connor

Master of Arts, Biomedical Sciences
Connor's other Tutor Subjects
Calculus
Algebra
AP Biology
Biochemistry

I am taking time to explore my lifelong interest in teaching. I began tutoring at the University of Notre Dame, where I worked for three years as a teaching assistant in a Cell Biology laboratory course. There, I enjoyed helping my peers understand the larger picture developing through our weekly ex...

Education

Loyola University-Chicago

Master of Arts, Biomedical Sciences

University of Notre Dame

Bachelor of Science

Test Scores
ACT
35
Sarah

Certified Tutor

6+ years

Sarah

Master of Arts, Sacred Music
Sarah's other Tutor Subjects
6th Grade AP Language Composition
Calculus
Algebra
PSAT Writing Skills

I am liberal arts trained and excel at connecting concepts across academic disciplines.

Education

Yale University

Master of Arts, Sacred Music

Vassar College

Bachelor in Arts, Music

Molly

Certified Tutor

9+ years

Molly

Current Undergrad Student, Communication, General
Molly's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Pre-Calculus
Middle School Math
Geometry

I am a Communications Major with a penchant for reading, writing, some math, and film! (I picked up a Cinema Studies Minor as well) I used to be an editor in a few newspapers, so I love working with others to improve their writing skills. I have tutored many areas in both high school and college and...

Education

University of Pennsylvania

Current Undergrad Student, Communication, General

Jessica

Certified Tutor

8+ years

Jessica

Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
Jessica's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Middle School Math
Calculus
Algebra

I am currently enrolled in Vanderbilt University where I am studying Elementary Education as well as European History. I love working with students, and I intend to make a career out of it. I have experience working with students in different contexts, from the dance studio to the classroom and acro...

Education

Vanderbilt University

Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching

Test Scores
SAT
1520

Meet Our Expert Tutors

Connect with highly-rated educators ready to help you succeed.

Tom

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +41 Subjects

I am a firm believer that clear, precise communication between student and tutor makes for a productive and fulfilling learning experience. When I work with students, I strive to listen carefully to find out exactly where they are struggling, and to impart corresponding strategies clearly and concisely. I work with them step by step until we zero in on exactly where the problem is occurring, and tailor solutions from there. These collegial and yet very focused discussions go a long way toward helping me to discern where the student needs help and helping the student to master the content he or she must learn, besides ensuring a pleasant and interesting learning experience.

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Kevin

AP Statistics Tutor • +47 Subjects

I am currently a rising Junior at the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics and minoring in Science, Technology, and Society. From early on, the intellectual development of others has been very important to me. In high school, I developed my school's first summer tutoring program to ensure that students retained information and were prepared for the upcoming year. I am most passionate about tutoring Political Science, History, and Math, with significant experience in helping students in each of these subject areas. In my spare time, I enjoy reading and playing the bass. Hobbies: art, reading, writing, books, music

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Maddy

Calculus Tutor • +62 Subjects

I'm a recent graduate of Harvard University and a natural teacher, and I'd be thrilled to help you build your skills, gain academic confidence, and get results! My B.A. is in American history and literature with a minor in theater. I spent my college years producing and directing student theater, writing plays, giving campus tours, and researching and writing my honors thesis on art criticism in New York City in the late 1960s.

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Zachary

Calculus Tutor • +33 Subjects

I'm a PhD at Harvard studying German philosophy and classics (Greek and Latin). Next year, I will be starting law school to pursue my professional passion, tax law. I am deeply committed to the language and LSAT skills I've developed and I love to tutor students of all levels in these subjects. I can't imagine a life without teaching. My favorite part of teaching is helping students come to love -- or at least appreciate -- the details that make up complex subject matters. My favorite moment with any student is when the student realizes how fascinating a subject matter is after really mastering all of the "dry" details. When my students start internalizing the LSAT or languages I am teaching them, I know I am doing my job.

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Jack

AP Calculus AB Tutor • +50 Subjects

I'm a recent grad from Northwestern (B.A. in Theatre and Economics) who loves teaching and learning. I love helping other people achieve their goals and helping students find ways to be their best selves. Excited to meet and work with Chicagoland's students!

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Ariel

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +53 Subjects

I am a student at Brown University, where I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science in psychology. I employ a student-centered approach to tutoring, grounding the session in the student's knowledge of what topics it would be most beneficial to review. I typically begin a session by asking a student if there is any material they have learned since the previous session whose reasoning they would like for me to walk them through. I then help the student work through problems or questions that employ that understanding. My favorite subject to tutor is math; I love helping students understand the logic of a subject in which they may have been relying for years on memorization. I have been tutoring since 2016, and I have experience teaching math, science, language arts, history, French, and study skills to students in elementary, middle, and high school. I currently focus on math (pre-algebra, algebra, geometry), English, test prep, and essay writing.

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George

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +32 Subjects

I'm more likely to give an answer quickly when a teacher asks a question if I have a habit of properly attuned instincts. So, if I want your confidence to grow, I need to redirect the water your instincts flow through to the proper conduits of careful thinking.

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Katherine

Calculus Tutor • +42 Subjects

I am willing to help a student reach higher grades, but more important to me than the grade is that the student is actually getting something out of what we are doing, and truly learning, not just retaining information, but engaging with the material and enjoying what they are learning. I firmly believe that hard work pays off, and with the right encouragement and help, a student can achieve anything they set their mind to. You're never to old to learn something new, and the doorways opened by education are endless. Hobbies: travel, reading, music, writing, art, books, traveling, photography

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Solange

Calculus Tutor • +31 Subjects

I'm Solange - a recent graduate from Harvard where I studied Sociology & Women's Studies. I've been tutoring for eight years now, and have worked with a wide range of ages and in a wide range of subjects. Some of my specialties are college prep/test taking II worked in the admissions office on campus); social sciences; and literature/writing. Hobbies: books, hiking, reading, music, writing, art

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Mollie

Calculus Tutor • +41 Subjects

I'm a recent graduate of the University of Chicago (AB'17) where I studied English Language and Literature, and Linguistics. I have experience coaching students writing and editing college essays, resume/cover letters, and academic papers of all kinds. I was a content writer for a small Chicago start-up and later worked as a game designer for the University's game lab. I enjoy writing, dancing, reading, roller blading, and playing video games in my free time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Students often find it challenging to analyze works across different time periods and movements—from colonial literature through contemporary voices—because each era requires understanding distinct historical contexts and literary conventions. Common trouble spots include interpreting symbolism and allegory in texts like The Great Gatsby or Moby Dick, understanding the cultural significance of African American literature and the Harlem Renaissance, and grasping how American authors respond to major historical events like the Civil War, industrialization, and social movements. Additionally, many students struggle with constructing strong literary arguments that move beyond surface-level plot summary to analyze how form, style, and authorial choices create meaning.

A tutor can guide you in moving beyond obvious observations to craft nuanced arguments about American texts. For example, rather than stating "Gatsby represents the American Dream," a tutor helps you develop a specific claim like "Fitzgerald critiques the American Dream by showing how Gatsby's pursuit of wealth corrupts his moral values." Tutors work with you to identify textual evidence—specific scenes, dialogue, imagery—that supports your argument, and they provide feedback on how clearly your thesis previews the analytical path your essay will take. This personalized approach ensures your thesis reflects genuine literary insight rather than generic interpretations.

Summarizing tells what happens in a story, while close reading examines how and why an author creates meaning through specific word choices, sentence structure, and literary devices. In American Literature, close reading might involve analyzing how Toni Morrison uses repetition and fragmented narrative in Beloved to convey trauma, or how Emily Dickinson's dashes and capitalization create rhythm and emphasis. A tutor helps you develop the skills to move beyond plot details to examine the author's craft—identifying metaphors, tracking imagery across a text, and understanding how style reinforces theme. This deeper analytical skill is essential for strong literary essays and exams.

Historical context is crucial because American literature is deeply shaped by the nation's evolving social, political, and cultural landscape. Understanding that Uncle Tom's Cabin was written to oppose slavery, that The Crucible reflects Cold War anxieties, or that contemporary authors like Colson Whitehead reimagine historical narratives helps you grasp why authors made specific choices and what their work meant to readers of their time. A tutor can help you connect historical events—westward expansion, industrialization, civil rights movements, immigration patterns—to the themes, characters, and conflicts in the texts you're studying. This contextual understanding transforms your reading from surface-level appreciation to meaningful literary analysis.

Rather than generic feedback, a tutor provides specific guidance on strengthening your literary arguments and evidence. They might point out where your analysis drifts into summary, suggest stronger textual quotes that better support your thesis, or help you reorganize paragraphs so your argument builds logically. For instance, a tutor could help you revise a paragraph about symbolism in Their Eyes Were Watching God by identifying which details are most significant and how to weave them into a cohesive analytical point. This targeted feedback, combined with explanations of why certain revisions strengthen your essay, helps you develop stronger writing habits for future assignments.

American Literature includes voices from many communities—Native American authors, Asian American writers, Latinx authors, LGBTQ+ voices, and others—each with distinct perspectives shaped by their experiences. A tutor can help you understand how authors like Sherman Alexie, Maxine Hong Kingston, or Ocean Vuong use literature to explore identity, belonging, and resistance to dominant narratives. They can guide you in recognizing how different authors employ similar themes (family, displacement, resilience) through different cultural lenses, and help you avoid reducing complex works to stereotypes. This nuanced engagement with diverse American literature deepens your understanding of the nation's literary heritage and strengthens your ability to analyze texts with cultural sensitivity.

Most American Literature essays use MLA format, which requires citing the edition you're reading (since different editions have different page numbers). A tutor can show you how to format in-text citations correctly—for example, citing a line from Walden as (Thoreau 45) or a poem by line number like (Whitman, lines 12-14)—and help you create a Works Cited page that matches your specific text editions. Beyond formatting rules, a tutor helps you integrate quotes smoothly into your analysis so citations support rather than interrupt your argument. They also teach you when to use direct quotes versus paraphrasing, ensuring your citations strengthen rather than clutter your essay.

A tutor helps you build the analytical skills needed for timed essays and multiple-choice questions by practicing close reading under pressure and developing quick strategies for identifying themes, tone, and literary devices. They can work with you on texts likely to appear on exams—canonical works like To Kill a Mockingbird, The Great Gatsby, or 1984—helping you develop strong interpretations and supporting evidence you can recall quickly. For standardized tests like the AP Literature exam, a tutor provides targeted practice on how to craft persuasive literary arguments in 40 minutes, how to analyze unfamiliar passages effectively, and how to avoid common pitfalls like over-relying on plot summary. This focused preparation builds both confidence and the specific skills these assessments require.

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