Jordan

Jordan grew up in New York City. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Columbia University, started a cross-country drive in his ’85 Camry the next day, and has been in Los Angeles ever since. Fifteen years ago, while pursuing a career as a writer, he began tutoring – a job that has long since evolved into a passion. He has worked with middle school and high school students on everything from test prep (SAT, ACT, ISEE, LSAT) to history, English, economics, essay writing, and the college application process. Whatever the subject, Jordan loves tailoring lessons to individualized learning styles and creating an environment that facilitates avid engagement with even the densest material.

What languages do you speak?

Sadly, while I can get by in Spanish, I would never say I “speak” it.

Why do you teach?

I teach because there’s so much that I love! And – corny though it sounds – there’s no better feeling that sharing something (a book, a figure from history, a particularly wonderful moment in a movie or a play, even a concept in economics) with a student and triggering an “ah ha!” moment, or some curiosity about what else might connect).

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Superpower: is time travel a super power? Let’s say it is. Who wouldn’t want to (quite literally) add a dimension to our lives?What three words would your students use to describe you?

What three words would your students use to describe you?

I think students would say I’m enthusiastic, intuitive, and empathetic. I connect.

What is your favorite book?

Not particularly original, but I love Gatsby. I’ve read it a dozen times, but each reading reveals something new.

What’s your favorite place to visit in Los Angeles?

Eugene Debs Park!

Any secret talents?

In addition to playing guitar and piano, I can also play pretty much any melody on my teeth or cheeks… you kind of have to see this for it to make sense.