From First Grade to High School: Rachel and Jermyra’s 10-Year Tutoring Journey

When Rachel Helmick first met Jermyra, she was a curious 1st grader eager to learn. Today, more than 10 years later, Jermyra is an ambitious high school student who continues to thrive, thanks in part to the consistent support and encouragement she’s found in her tutor and mentor.

“Because Jermyra and I have been working together for years, we have built up a lot of trust with each other,” Rachel shares. “I think Jermyra feels like she can be really honest with me so we can make the most of every session together. We’ve also bonded over many things like a love of baking.”

That trust has carried them through some of the most pivotal moments in Jermyra’s education. When it came time to apply to high schools, Rachel was by her side every step of the way. “Applying for high school was a monumental task that we worked on together for weeks,” Rachel recalls. “It was amazing seeing her focus on selecting schools, writing a personal essay, and getting recommendations from teachers. I was so impressed with how she handled the stressful and lengthy process while also balancing school work and extracurriculars.”

Jermyra’s family has seen the transformation too. “What makes their relationship so unique is the time Jermyra has spent with Rachel since 1st grade. Rachel was part of helping Jermyra evolve into this beautiful young lady,” her family shares. “The moment I knew Rachel had made an impact was when Jermyra was looking forward to attending tutoring.”

What does Jermyra enjoy most about her tutor? “Her patience with learning Jermyra’s weaknesses and strengths and adjusting her way of teaching to best help her,” says her family. “She also enjoys how Rachel encourages her to keep going even when she is ready to give up.”

The results speak for themselves. Jermyra has remained an honor roll student, become more outspoken, and never hesitates to ask for help. As Rachel reflects, “Tutoring is one of my favorite times of the week. Even when I struggle with the material (which gets more complicated the older Jermyra gets), it’s infinitely rewarding to make progress together.”

For Rachel, one of the most special aspects of Tutoring Chicago is the unique space it creates. “Jermyra has a connection to an adult who isn’t a parent or teacher,” Rachel explains. “I think I help fill a gap where she can get outside opinions and direction from someone who isn’t an authority figure.”

After more than a decade of working together, the impact is undeniable. “I am forever grateful for Tutoring Chicago and Rachel,” says Jermyra’s family. “Hard work pays off, and being consistent makes all the difference.”