Share Your Thoughts: The Importance of Having a TutorAugust 31, 2017

A tutor isn't someone like Severus Snape, who seemed to be dusted off from a long-forgotten cupboard. This figure can be more like Albus Dumbledore, who will encourage students to nurture their capabilities. This job has lots of perks whether it's an admissions tutor or a subject tutor. (This member of the faculty won't have a problem in looking for another job if seeking for a change in career. The stint in tutoring would look shiny in a CV.) There's another reason why it's a very important job, though. Coursework may overwhelm students, and it's the tutor's job to make sure that the students would thrive in an academic environment.

The admissions tutor will decide which applicants will receive an offer, be it unconditional or conditional. It can be daunting and exciting at the same time, as the process is like picking diamonds in the rough. (If the information in the application form is not good enough, not even the academic records, then an admission essay or two may be the decider.) On the other hand, a subject tutor's main task is to motivate the students to THINK. After all, they come to the university for a scholarly exercise. (Make it a series of scholarly exercises.)

The importance of tutor has nothing to do with a recent trend, where more Aussie teens study in the Ivy League universities. In other words, money has nothing to do with it.

What Does a Tutor Really Do for you?

A tutor will create an intellectually exciting environment. It will be a privilege of the faculty, even if it can extend beyond the working hours at times. Every year presents a new crop of fascinating minds, fascinated about new ideas that would be learned during the next few years. You won't have idle time. On the other hand, you may be yearning for extra time. This will be a great opportunity for you, so don't have be a wallflower during lecture hours. Don't be afraid to speak out, even if you're uncertain about your thought. (Nothing is written in stone.) Lastly, show your eagerness early on. The tutor may see it as a great compliment.

A tutor knows best. Remember that a tutor isn't interested in your looks. (Albert Einstein's disheveled appearance may not be a hype at all.) No points will be deducted from you after the tutor notices your quirks. Brilliant brains come in different types, which can be enumerated in a short list. Vital information in the applications form, outstanding scholastic record, thought-provoking essays. There's so much more, and it may be wise if you ask older students for tips. This might be a good excuse to visit the university (of your preference) early on.

A tutor will only think the best about you. It's far from "The Apprentice" format, where there will be adversarial moments. On the contrary, the university will be a friendly, supportive environment for students. This is important, even if education is becoming a bit too costly for some students. If you happen to be one of those hopefuls coming from that background, then you would be discouraged about it. There's always a way if you want it. Your admissions tutor might give you some valuable suggestions. If not tips (where you apply for a scholarship), then your tutor will be glad to answer your queries on your chosen field of study. It can be a subtle passage from Shakespeare's play, which is hard to read between the lines. Don't ask your tutor how to write a sarcastic essay, though.

3 Things That a Tutor Will Notice You

Genuine interest in your field of study. If you intend to study literature, then it will help that you're a heavy reader. You may not list the classics you have read in your application form, but you can mention them (in passing) in your personal statement. You can also pen an essay on your favourite novel, where you must attempt to show your analytical skills. There's no right or wrong way here, so don't be afraid of failure.

Traits that will make you stand out from the other applicants. If you have opted for a gap year, then you have an early advantage. If you're not one of those applicants, then you still have a good shot. Describe yourself in a way that will give your tutor an impression that you'll be able to manage the stresses of the coursework. If you have participated in any group activities within your school, then provide details that show your leadership capabilities and initiative at a young age. Your tutor won't have second thoughts about you.

If you're a mature applicant, then the requirements will be flexible in your favour. This will give you an equal footing with younger applicants. If you have a family and job, then your tutor will question about your willingness to set aside more time for the coursework. You may have difficulty in answering it, but you can prove it in other ways. (If you have plans to venture into an academic career, then show your passion and enthusiasm about it.) There will be cases when your tutor will take a risk and decide on your admissions essay. Don't try too hard (and argue many ideas). One or two will be good enough.

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