About
Amy has over 20 years experience tutoring math students in middle and high school courses,as well asfas teaching at courses at the University level.
I love tutoring because I get to teach math. As a teacher, I am so focused on lesson prep, grading and classroom management that I don't get to see the light bulb go off in a room full of faces. As a tutor, I get to work with students, build relationships and make sure they really understand the math. Many of my regular students have stayed in touch with me. I love seeing the 'ah ha' moment as well as building more personal relationships.
Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I always reinforce fundamentals with my students when working with complex problems. I make sure they understand why they are taking the steps they take to solve a problem and not just memorize the process. The most common feedback I hear from students is "You make it seem so simple". I will help you decode the complex looking math jargon and word problems into the simple question that it really is.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a BA and MA in mathematics. I was a supplemental instructor for my community college and a tutor for the University I transferred to. I worked for many nation-wide and local tutoring agencies between while finishing my BA. I began tutoring my own clients in 2007 and by 2014 tutoring was my full-time job. From 2014-2018 I taught developmental math for the California State University system.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students who struggled with organization, motivation, learning differences and students working on independent studies. I have also worked with two peers in the same class, siblings in the same class and siblings in different classes for a group rate. I have worked with students on many standardized tests as well.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Experience matters. I have been tutoring for nearly 20 years and I have seen the most common mistakes and misunderstanding over and over. I can quickly identify the places I see errors and fill the gaps immediately. The more I studied mathematics, the deeper I understood Algebra and Calculus myself, making it much easier to explain to my students in a simple way.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What do you expect from your tutor? What do you expect from yourself?