u/hyunehwang

Hello, this is my second post here.

I'm on my third month tutoring, and generally, I've been doing pretty fine, but just wanted to express a feeling I have from time to time when tutoring some of my students. I think what I'm feeling is imposter syndrome when it comes to my abilities.

I know that I'm the native English speaker, but sometimes I have students that speak quite well and have the abilities to use professional language easily. They have years and even decades of experience of using English in business settings and it definitely shows.

Because of some of these students, I try my best to give advice. There are times when I suggest they can familiarize themselves with more common idioms or expressions but there are cases when I cannot think of any on the spot.

By the end of the session, especially the super short 20 minute sessions when I'm still trying to figure out how to be helpful, I can sense some dissatisfaction from the student.

Does anyone ever feel this way? I'd love any advice.

Also, I've been trying to transcribe every single word my students say for their responses. Does anyone have any advice to keep up with the students' pace? Any shorthand systems you use?

Thank you guys again.

I only started Ringle a month ago and it's fairly easy besides when I come across advanced speakers which I surprisingly get often. Some speak quite eloquently and sophisticated, even using specialized terminology in their field.

For context, some even received their post-graduate degree in the states, and it shows in their responses in how they phrase and organize their thoughts. So not only do they sound fluent, they sound quite educated too.

This is what intimidates me. I do tell them that their skills are advanced and what they would like to specific feedback on. They usually just say let me know where it sounds unnatural or awkward-- but what if their original response is better than how I'd phrase it myself? Sometimes I suggest just free talking and if i'm lucky to think of any, I would suggest relevant expressions or vocabulary in between. I just hate feeling that I can't be much help for them and ending the call with much written on the doc.

Anyone also struggle with this? Any tips?

Thank you!