Start Tutoring in 2024: My NYC Experience

Have you thought about trying to get into the tutoring field? If so, this video is for you! I will tell you how I grew my tutoring platform in NYC without initial connections. Tutoring is a rewarding career that can be good preparation if you're interested in teaching.

0:00 Introduction
I started tutoring in 2016, and I moved to New York in the summer of 2018. Since then, I have grown my network by referrals, and I wanted to share that experience with you. It was amazing to me how my clients were supportive of getting my name out there, so I hope you can learn from my experience!

0:32 My Background Pre-NYC
I started tutoring in Korea, where I was trained on test prep and grammar. When I decided to be a teacher, I applied to a program in DC. In the interim, I went back home to Hawai'i and tutored biology there (easier because that's my home state). To supplement my income in DC, I started with Varsity Tutors.

2:10 Varsity Tutors: My First Large Tutoring Company
Varsity Tutors is one great place to start for entry into tutoring. This is especially true if you do not come from a "Top 30" school or have ridiculously high test scores. That is because Varsity Tutors has their own materials which you can take to qualify to tutor in certain subjects. The company also offers a wide range of subjects and opportunities for you, including remote and non-traditional tutoring work (adult education, toddler education, vocational exams, etc.). The major con comes from working as an independent contractor (i.e. taxes, no benefits, get your own materials). But if those cons are manageable for you, then I highly recommend starting here. Some of my clients from Varsity continue to refer me to this day, so a lot can come out of it!

5:50 Seeking Better Pay and Moving Up the Ladder
After getting those years of experience under my belt, I felt ready to interview for companies that paid better and were more selective. I also wanted to avoid the independent contractor role due to the tax issues. The first company I worked for is a larger company in NYC, which tends to pull clients from the wealthier Manhattan neighborhoods. There, I learned the SSAT and ISEE tests and expanded my client network. When I switched companies, I learned how to tutor the SHSAT from my boss. My second company was smaller and more supportive, so it was the perfect fit.

My tips for getting started:
1. Start with a company or experience that involves training. No matter how good you think you are, it is very helpful to get insights from people in the industry.
2. Learn what is in-demand in your area. For example, in NYC, the SHSAT is a key selling point!
3. Network and be a star! Trust me, if you're good, people will recommend you!

9:26 The Hypocrisy of Tutoring and Education
I wanted to address the hypocrisy of being a private tutor and a public school advocate. I want to make it VERY clear that I know I am contributing to the problem, and that I believe no one should have to pay for a good education. At the same time, I do not lead a glamorous lifestyle, and private tutoring is a fabulous side hustle for me. At the end of the day, I also learn things as a tutor that I apply to the classroom. However, it is my hope to phase this out once I become a certified teacher. If you are also struggling with this, for your entry level positions, volunteer OR work for an organization that supports students for free. Having the private tutoring training has made me a better teacher in these settings as well.

10:38 Conclusion and Thank You

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[samtutorstestwalkthroughs]

Hey Ashlyn! It was entertaining listening to your perspectives as a tutor. I wish you great success! I think the education system also has it's issues, but we can change a little bit of our world for students wherever we are. Oh and good advice on the SHSAT. The SHSAT might go the way of the 🦕 though with the political battles going on. Who knows right? Keep up the good work!