Today we’re excited to introduce you to Amelia Blaska. Amelia is an Educator, Private Tutor, Standardized Test Preparation Consultant and is also a content partner. Content partners help Voyage in so many ways from spreading the word about the work that we do, sponsoring our mission and collaborating with us on content like this. Check out our conversation with Amelia below.
Hi Amelia, so great to have you join us again. For folks who might have missed our earlier conversations, can you please take a minute to briefly introduce yourself?
Certainly! I cater exclusively to students preparing for the MAP, GMAS (MILESTONES), SSAT, PSAT, ACT, and SAT standardized tests. I also provide individualized instruction in a variety of subjects: English, History, Spanish, Math, Science, Social Studies, Bible, World Religion, College Prep (including Applications & Essays), Study Skills and ESL for students in elementary school up and through 12th grade. I also work with college-bound students, post-grads, college students and even adults who have returned to obtain their degrees later in life.
What separates you from other educators and tutors in your field?
My diversified skill set separates me from other tutors and services in my field. I tutor lower, middle and high school students as well as college students and in a wide array of areas, including on level, honors, and AP/IB classes for the following: English, Spanish, Math, Science, History, Religion, Study Skills, Philosophy, Psychology. In 2006, I began standardized test preparation for the SAT specifically. Now I have expanded my business to include one-on-one instruction, typically more effective than classes, for a total of SIX standardized tests: GMAS (MILESTONES), MAP, SSAT, PSAT, SAT and ACT. I continue to offer services and expertise assisting students applying to private schools in the Metro Atlanta area as an educational consultant, and I provide the same service for college-bound high school students. I typically tutor in person at my students’ homes, or Pre-Covid, at locations like Starbucks or public libraries. I also provide virtual tutoring for students in different states. I recently began tutoring virtually on the national level, with three clients in the state of Wisconsin and one in Iowa. Georgia is and always will be home, but I’m ecstatic about how my business is growing!
When did you realize you had a passion for teaching and was there a particular moment or occurrence that catalyze your choice?
I knew as a little girl I had a passion and love for teaching, as I “held school” regularly in our Chamblee playroom for years, as instructor and teacher to sister Katie, brother Charles, and neighbors Newell, Leah and Kendall. This passion was confirmed with an epiphany I had during the middle of a tenth grade English class at Westminster, in the presence of one of my all time favorite teachers and mentors Mr. Frank Finsthwait. At this particular moment, I “knew” I would become an English major as well as a teacher. I also strongly knew I would likely return to Westminster after graduating from college. This epiphany came true, for immediately after graduating from the University of Notre Dame, I began teaching 7th and 8th grade English and Creative Writing (Writer’s Workshop) at my alma mater.
With what ages and types of students do you primarily work?
I work with students in 1st grade through 12th and with college students of any age.
Will you share a brief glimpse of a student with whom you’ve worked—one who has achieved success on multiple levels?
One of my students who has achieved success on multitudinous levels is Miki Covitz. I began working with him his junior year. This spring a graduate of The Weber School in Sandy Springs, Miki began his time with me a bit trepidatious about reading and interpreting literature, and he needed guidance and coaching with his writing. He also needed an accountability coach with regard to keeping up with and staying on top of all coursework. After two years of working with Miki, including tutoring him in English, History, Economics, he has developed a genuine love of literature, writes with ease and with more confidence and conviction, and he has taken ownership of his academic experience. I also prepped Miki for the SAT and assisted him with the college application process, and I’m thrilled because he got into every school to which he applied. I’m so proud because Miki will be matriculating at Kennesaw State this fall and has personally grown into one of the finest young gentlemen I know.
How has Covid affected your business,, and what changes have you made to adapt to the trying circumstances of the pandemic?
Initially, Covid adversely affected my business. Everyone was afraid, and as such, many of my clients, understandably felt working together one on one was unsafe. As such, I had to adapt and adjust, and at this point, I began virtually tutoring. Even though I am now seeing the majority of my clients face-to-face again, thanks to the combination of masks and now vaccines, I will always tutor virtually now, as it has enabled me to tutor late as well as to expand my business to the national level.
It was so great to reconnect. One last question – how can our readers connect with you, learn more or support you?
WEBSITE
https://facebook.com/AmeliaBla
https://www.instagram.com/
https://www.facebook.com/
http://linkedin.com/in/amelia-
OTHER
FB group
https://www.facebook.com/
FB profile
https://www.facebook.com/
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameliaannetteb
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/amelia-b-bba3420
- Other: https://voyageatl.com/interview/meet-amelia-blaska-educator-diversified-private-tutor-standard-test-preparation-consultant-metro-atlanta/
Image Credits
Sylvia Miller, Max Moore, Amelia Blaska
