Lauren Kay

I graduated Magna Cum Laude from Brown in 2011, where I spent my time concentrating in American Civilization with a focus on American youth culture and gender relations. When I wasn't busy studying for classes or managing SmartSitting, I could be found working on Brown Television shows, participating in entrepreneurship clubs, and designing student classes on relationships, entrepreneurship, and 'mean girls'.

I attended the Parsippany New Jersey public schools from kindergarten until eighth grade, and spent my high school years at Newark Academy in Livingston, NJ. I am the youngest of four, the only girl, and the first of my siblings to attend college. My oldest brother works as a DJ, my middle brother as a free spirit, and my youngest brother attends a live-in program for adults with autism and related developmental disorders. My various life experiences have taught me to understand varied learning styles and abilities and have led me to truly value the efforts of those invested in the education, health and well-being of children of all circumstances.

I began working as a tutor four years ago, and had the good fortune to work with Lu (then 10), my tutee-turned-mentee-turned-little sister. Getting to see Lu grow up has easily been the most rewarding experience I have ever had. Lu introduced me to Taylor Swift and Glee, and in return I have done my best to help lead her through the ups and downs of middle school - providing what assistance I could with homework, friendships, and following her passions and dreams. My relationship with Lu epitomizes why I wake up every day filled with the desire to bring about positive change in the individual lives of families and children across NYC.