About
Math is seen as one of the most difficult and least accessible subjects for students everywhere, but it doesn't have to be that way.
I, Zayn Siddique, know what it's like trying to get better at math and have worked with students from all levels. I have been tutoring for a little over two years now, and have absolutely fallen in love with it. I believe any student can learn the skills of their desired math level, and I've seen it happen in every instance from basic counting to AP Calculus BC.
I put the techniques I teach into practice, and they have gotten me and my students 5s on both AP Calculus exams. I also bring along my insight from one of the most competitive and successful, public high school math programs in California if not the country.
I am absolutely impassioned by seeing my students succeed, and hope that I can help your student succeed as well.
There's something about seeing someone reach their potential that's hard to convey with words. As an educator, you can often see the bounldess potential your students have, but sadly most do not see themselves as having such. When a student's confidence dwindles math becomes difficult than it already is. Math can be hard, but it doesn't have to be. I see my job as helping students who have the ability, to best express and enact it. Confidence is one of the most important skills someone can have, and I think it can all sprout from doing well in a math class. I enjoy seeing my students become complete people, not just students.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I try to get a feel for what the student is like, which is critical to any learning environment. People are different, and you have to interact with them accordingly based off of what type of people they are. Making a student feel comfortable is paramount to their success, and I believe the results speak for themselves.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Currently, I am pursuing a degree in Applied and Computational Math from USC. I have worked in education for 5 years now, taking on private tutoring jobs, grading for the USC Math department, working for tutoring centers, and building my very own award-winning tutoring program.
I spent my high school years working through some of the most rigorous high school math classes available in public schools across America. I found great success in being part of a successful high school math team, and getting 5s on my AP Calculus AB and BC tests.
I have also trained and worked in the Mathnasium Learning Center system, one that is world-renowned for its effectiveness. Along with its help, I was able to hone my skills through dedicated practice with students of all ages.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
It depends on the level, and all of them are subject to change based on the circumstance/student.
My base rates are:
Elementary- Pre-Algebra 1: $35/hour
Algebra 1-Algebra 2: $40/hour
Trigonometry-AP Calculus BC $50/hour
SAT: Case by case
These rates are subject to change based on the student's needs/involvement.
(I.e. if a student needs me to look through material beforehand)
How did you get started teaching?
I started by helping my friends with their math problems in elementary school. They would complain about not getting what our teacher was saying at recess, then I would take a second to explain while we were on our way to the basketball courts, and after that they'd do amazing. I would always feel a tiny rush when they would say I was helpful, then from there on out I loved math even more.
I seriously picked tutoring up during my sophomore year of high school. I had friends who were struggling in Trigonometry, so I offered my help. I would get comments like "Bro, you did a better job than my teacher," or, "Oh my gosh I can't believe you were able to teach me all of this just during lunch". That's when I pursued a job in tutoring, at Mathnasium.
What types of students have you worked with?
I believe that with my experience, I have seen every type of student under the sun. I have worked with high schoolers who couldn't do fractions, aspiring mathletes, students with learning disabilities/attention disorders, and some students who were up to as many as 4 years ahead of their in-school pace. I truly believe I have a knack for getting through to students and understanding how they learn/operate.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My work with a student of mine, Attila(thanks for letting me use your name Attila :D). He was such a pleasure to work with because he was extremely flexible, willing, and interested in learning. He would try whatever I asked him because he understood that I was there to help. He and I built an amazing rapport, which I think helped him succeed as much as he did.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for fit. Sometimes you won't be able to tell which tutor is right for you right away, therefore, it's worth trying to get a feel for your tutor before you hire them.
For parents/guardians, look at how the tutor carries themself. It's not enough to be just good at math, but the student has to feel comfortable with the tutor to reach their full potential, or even exceed it. Try and have your student engage with the tutor too if possible.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Ask yourself what you think you're doing right, and what you're doing wrong. Solely focusing on either could give you an inaccurate picture of your skills and needs, which would waste your time(and no one likes their time wasted!). Try to see where you would like to improve and ask your teacher/tutor questions what would benefit you most!