Jovane Felizola

GO tutor Jovane Felizola served in the 24-25 school year at Cardozo Education Campus in Washington, DC. Learn more about Jovane below! 

Why did you apply to GO?

When I read about GO’s objectives, I was interested in being part of that mission. I benefited from various tutors throughout my academic education and wanted to pay it back. The perks that came with the position also played a factor, and I have been able to explore around the D.C. area in my free time and appreciate this learning experience.

What has been your favorite tutorial moment?

My favorite tutorial moment has been breaking through with this one group of students who despised reading no matter the literature. I was finally able to find the way they preferred to learn and a book they were truly invested in. Throughout our sessions, I could see in their writing and comprehension how they were growing every day. This was further solidified by seeing their MAP English scores grow. I was overjoyed to see their hard work pay off.

What is your favorite way to connect with the students?

I best connect with students when I share about myself and find some common ground. It has come to the point that I now know a lot of my students’ favorite food, music, hobbies, aspirations, sports teams, and so much more. I do my best to watch a show they recommend, go to their games, visit their jobs, and just be present for them however I can. I have learned the smallest detail could mean the world to these students.

What did you learn this year?

My year working with GO introduced me to what a career in education may look like for me. I have decided to come back for another year and further continue developing as an educator. A career in education is something I am interested in now.

What professional skills did you learn this year?

My year in a school helped me develop many skills, such as communication, collaboration, and especially creativity. Every day is never the same at my school site, and so I must adapt to a variety of situations. I also have developed my collaboration skills as I work with other tutors, my lead, other staff, and more.