Tutor Spotlights

LVSC Journey: I became a tutor in 2017. I had tried other ‘give back’ activities but they were more clerical or administrative. I thought I would get more satisfaction working with an individual. I felt I’d get to help someone, learn from the person and feel gratified that I was helping someone. 

Tena (back row, second from right) with her tutor training class in October 2017.Most Memorable LVSC Moment: My current ESL student shared an article from Billboard. It told of a DJ in Germany who had bashed a remake of the Coldplay (a group from Britain) song “FIX YOU”. The DJ compared the KPop group BTS to the Coronavirus. We started to discuss the hate and racism experienced by people of Asian ancestry. Then she shared a lyric and asked me to help her understand the meaning: “Lights will guide you home. And ignite your bones. And I will try to fix you.” After I listened to both versions, I explained that to me it was speaking to something we all have in common no matter the color of our skin. We are all human and we can help a fellow human being when they’re at a low point. We continued our discussion. Both versions of the song are beautiful, and it amazed us that the DJ made such inappropriate statements about such a sweet song. We both agreed that we preferred to think of the world as the song described.

Day Job: After 37 years with a telecommunications company, I work hard at being retired. 

Favorite Quote: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" is a biblical concept spoken by Jesus in Luke A.6:31 and Matthew 7:12.  It is commonly referred to as the "Golden Rule."

Tena and her first student enjoyed tutoring sessions at Wegmans.

Favorite Food: Barbecue ribs.

Hobbies: Taking Zoom classes, working jigsaw puzzles, and attending pool exercise classes at my Y. 

Favorite Book: Classic - Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen. Current - The Millennium Series by Stieg Larsson.

R&R Spot: NJ or CT Fun Times with family and friends - swimming pool or games (Spades).