Nashwa Siddique’s journey with Saga Education reveals the profound impact and personal growth that can emerge from dedicated educational service. Serving as a Saga Education tutor in New York City, Nashwa’s experiences offer insightful reflections on remote teaching, the transition from private tutoring, and the broader implications of service through AmeriCorps.

A Transition in Tutoring

Nashwa’s journey to Saga Education was fueled by her dynamic experiences with Varsity Tutors. “With Varsity Tutors, I had the freedom to teach in various settings—whether one-on-one, in small groups, on weekends, or even late at night,” she shares. However, it was Saga’s structured approach that truly captivated her. “At Saga, the curriculum offers a clear direction and comprehensive resources for every lesson,” Nashwa highlights. This supportive framework stood out as a significant and welcome change from other tutoring providers.

The Saga Experience: Remote Challenges and Rewards

Nashwa’s tenure at Saga was characterized by the unique challenges and benefits of remote tutoring. While the flexibility of remote work allowed her to manage her schedule efficiently, it also introduced hurdles. “One of the challenges of remote teaching is connecting with students. It’s harder to establish that in-person presence, and managing disengagement can be tough,” she admits. Despite these challenges, Nashwa appreciated the technology’s ability to simultaneously monitor multiple students and manage their progress.

To overcome engagement issues, Nashwa employed creative strategies as part of her teaching practice. “Creating incentives like points for participation and making sessions visually interactive helped maintain student engagement,” she shares. This proactive approach reflects her commitment to fostering an environment where students feel motivated and supported.

One of Nashwa’s proudest accomplishments was creating an environment where students were excited to attend sessions. “When my students told me they learned from me and wanted to come to class, that was my biggest accomplishment,” she says. Her approach to building relationships—through casual check-ins and a focus on student-paced learning—was key to fostering a positive and engaging educational experience.

A Year of Growth and Impact

Reflecting on her year, Nashwa highlights her professional and personal growth. “The biggest takeaway has been becoming more comfortable with communication,” she says, noting her transformation from an introverted individual to someone more open and engaging. This personal development, coupled with the satisfaction of seeing her students benefit from her support, underscores the rewarding nature of her service.

Nashwa’s enthusiasm for returning to Saga for a second year is driven by several factors. The opportunity to contribute to a positive environment, coupled with the potential benefits of the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award for higher education, played a significant role in her decision. “I’m looking forward to furthering my education and career in teaching,” she explains, underscoring her commitment to both personal and professional growth.

Advice for Future Tutors

For those considering a role as a Saga Education tutor, Nashwa’s advice is practical and encouraging. “Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek help, especially if teaching is new to you,” she advises. She emphasizes the importance of utilizing the resources offered by Saga, such as training materials like SEL reflection prompts and tutor curriculum support to enhance teaching effectiveness.

Nashwa also underscores the value of understanding each student’s unique needs. “Being able to adapt your approach based on what the student needs is crucial. Not every student learns at the same pace,” she explains. This adaptability was key in her approach, ensuring that each student received the support they required to succeed.

The Future of Tutoring and Teaching

Looking ahead, Nashwa is exploring opportunities in higher education and teaching. Her background in business technology and the impact of her work with Saga have influenced her career trajectory. “I’ve gained a better understanding of the education field and feel that teaching might be the right path for me,” she says. Her dedication and passion for education led to her acceptance into the Secondary Math Education Master’s program at Western Governors University (WGU), a testament to her unwavering commitment to advancing her teaching career while continuing to grow as a Saga tutor.

Nashwa Siddique’s experience as a Saga Education tutor exemplifies the transformative power of high-impact tutoring. Her journey from private tutoring to remote education, coupled with her personal growth and dedication to student success, highlights the significant impact of being a Saga tutor. For those considering a similar path, Nashwa’s insights and experiences offer valuable guidance and inspiration.

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