Tutor Spotlight: Mary Ciamaga

 

With 15 years of experience under her belt, Mary Ciamaga is one of our longest serving tutors! She has perfected the craft and her students appreciate her teaching style, saying “she makes it easy to learn.” LBN appreciates the effort Mary puts into actualizing real life successes for her students, like getting a passport, and her flexibility in finding ways to meet with them.

What inspired you to volunteer for Literacy Buffalo Niagara?

My love of reading inspired me to volunteer as a tutor. I was hoping to pass this on to others.

What has been the biggest surprise about being a volunteer tutor?

The biggest surprise has been learning as much from my students as I have been teaching them.

Will you share a success story that you are proud of?

One of my past students was studying to be a LPN and together we learned a lot of medical terms and she has succeeded in her endeavors.

What important lessons have you learned as a tutor?

I have learned to be patient and that the student’s needs (and wants) are most important.

Do you have any tips for other tutors?

The tips are to listen to your students and to use the resources available from the staff at Literacy Volunteers!

What do you enjoy doing when you are not tutoring?

Reading, walking (weather permitting) and spending time with family and friends.