Inspired by Colbert: My Take on the Questionnaire
March 28, 2025:
The other night, I was watching The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and caught questionnaire with Chris Hemsworth. As I listened to the questions, I thought, Why not do something similar for my blog and YouTube? So here we are! I’m sharing my own version of a personal and professional Q&A to let you get to know me better—both as a tutor and beyond.
I’ll also be diving deeper into Question #2: What inspired you to become a tutor? ... in an upcoming YouTube video, where I’ll talk more about my journey and what led me to where I am today. I’ll link that video right here in the blog once it’s live.
1. What inspired you to become a tutor, and how did you get started?
I actually got started as a tutor through a work-study program at UT Dallas, where I became an AVID tutor with Plano ISD. AVID is a high school program designed to prepare students for college by giving them the tools they need to succeed, including group tutoring in challenging subjects. I worked in that role for about three years, and during that time, I also began doing private tutoring in Dallas. That’s when things really took off!
From there, I kept at it, and eventually, I became a staff tutor at Collin College where I focused on helping chemistry and anatomy & physiology students.
2. What’s your favorite part about tutoring, and what keeps you motivated?
I absolutely love troubleshooting problems and helping students finally get that “aha” moment. But beyond just solving math and science problems, I also enjoy supporting students through tricky spots in their academic journeys. Whether it’s discussing study habits, future classes, or even career choices, I’m here to listen and guide them. Seeing students gain confidence and feel empowered in their learning process is what keeps me motivated every day.
3. If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of academic advice, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self: Don’t stress about understanding everything immediately. Some concepts will click right away, while others take time to sink in. And that’s okay! Use the learning tactics that work best for you and ask for help sooner rather than later. I used to be too stubborn to ask for help, thinking I could figure everything out on my own. But talking to teachers, professors, TAs, and fellow students can make a world of difference. Most of the time, they’ve been exactly where you are and are more than willing to help.
4. What’s something your students might be surprised to learn about you?
I have a deep love for medieval history! I’m especially fascinated by the Tudor era and the two or three centuries leading up to it. I’ve spent countless hours reading about key historical figures like William the Conqueror, Henry VII, Henry VIII, and Eleanor of Aquitaine. These days, I listen to history podcasts to fuel my hobby.
In fact, answering this question inspired me to start a History Resources section on my website where I’ll be sharing my favorite authors and podcasts that cover this fascinating period. Stay tuned for that update!
5. How do you balance running a business, homeschooling, and creating content for YouTube?
Honestly? I don’t! It’s a constant balancing act. I try to map out my week and tackle each day as it comes. I usually have a general idea of what I want to accomplish each day and break tasks into manageable chunks.
Here’s what a typical day looks like:
✅ I work on my tutoring business for a while in the morning.
📚 I spend time homeschooling Sophia—focusing on reading, letters, and math.
🎥 Later, I dive back into business tasks and content creation while Sophia either entertains herself, works on her own school-related activities, or does some art.
We also make room for fun outings, like trips to the zoo or local parks. My mom and stepdad are lifesavers when it comes to helping out with Sophia, and I use technology to stay productive. In fact, as I’m answering this questionnaire, I’m sitting in bed with my iPad!
Check out the link below to my YouTube deep dive on Question #2!