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 Fellow 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 path to Saga was paved by her experiences with Varsity Tutors, a platform offering flexible tutoring solutions. “Varsity Tutors allowed for a variety of settings—one-on-one or small groups, and you could tutor on weekends or late into the evening,” she explains. The variability of Varsity Tutors contrasts with the structured approach at Saga Education. “Saga has a set curriculum which provides a clear direction and resources for each lesson,” Nashwa notes. This structured framework was a positive distinction from other tutoring platforms.
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. “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.
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 Fellows
For those considering a role as a Saga Education Fellow, 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 and 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.
**Building Connections in Remote Education**
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
**Conclusion**
Nashwa Siddique’s experience as a Saga Education Fellow 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 Fellow. For those considering a similar path, Nashwa’s insights and experiences offer valuable guidance and inspiration.
Her story is a testament to the profound difference that committed educators can make, both in their own lives and in the lives of their students.
