Hello, I'm Russ.
Philosopher, historian of ethics, tutor
As I complete my PhD in philosophy at the University of California, Berkeley, I am turning my attention to what I am most passionate about, which is working individually with students. With twelve semesters of teaching experience at UC Berkeley, three semesters at Georgia State University before that, and a year of tutoring high-school and middle-school students before even entering graduate school, I am equipped to work with students of all ages on a variety of subjects. Subjects I am qualified to teach include:
- Latin
- Ancient Greek
- Philosophy
- Chemistry (by request)
- Academic writing
About me
Aristotle says about the study of ethics that
we do not inquire in order that we may know what virtue is,
but in order that we may become good
(Nicomachean Ethics 2.2, 1103b27–28).
As a historian of ethics,
and in particular of Aristotle's ethics,
I have always cherished these words.
As a teacher,
I believe that other kinds of knowledge
should also be directed towards the human good.
Knowledge should be acquired not just for one's own benefit
but also to be shared.
And when that knowledge is shared by a teacher,
and received by a learner,
the process of learning can enliven, nourish, and elevate the learner,
whatever the knowledge is,
and whether or not it is of any use to the learner.
As a tutor, my highest calling is therefore to assist students for whom the dignity inculcated by every act of learning is most out of reach. When I work with my students who struggle the most, my goal is much more than just academic success. Whether students are having problems at home, or are overwhelmed because they need to work a second job to fund their education, or are simply intimidated by the material, I try to help the students see clearly the gifts that they already have, and that they are already capable of learning. And once students realize that they are capable of learning, whatever else is going on in their lives, and whatever academic success is possible for them that year or that semester, they are at least emboldened and empowered by the power of learning.
I also serve those for whom the fruits of learning are not as out of reach, but who want to enhance their learning. Because of my many years of experience as a teacher, and the many years over which I have developed my expertise in philosophy, classical languages, and academic writing, I am uniquely equipped to bring any student's learning to the next level.
I live in Albany, CA with my wife and my cat, Lilly. I am available to work in-person with students in the surrounding area, and I am also available to work with interested students remotely.