About
Empowerment Tutoring was founded by Jake Van Loon in 2017. Jake holds a B.Sc. in Biomedical Science from Oakland University, as well as nearly 10 years experience tutoring all K-12 subjects and ACT/SAT. He also teaches biology, anatomy & physiology, organic and inorganic chemistry, and math up to first-year calculus and statistics. He has been tutoring these subjects full time for 7 years- tutoring is his passion.
Illeana Barragan joined Empowerment in September of 2023. She holds a B.A. in Sound Design from MTU as well as 5+ years experience mentoring young folks and tutoring K-12 math and science. Illeana's passion for education and creative problem solving make her an invaluable mentor for any student who could use a little help.
At Empowerment, our mission statement is "Learning how to learn is the goal of every session". We don't only want to help our students pass tests- we want to set them up for long term success in academia. We collaborate with students to turn learning into an enjoyable, individualized, repeatable process. If you, or someone you know is excited to learn how to learn with us, don't hesitate- contact us for a quote today.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I find that getting to know what a student is passionate about is an important first step. Knowing what future application(s) the information being presented might be used for is helpful in creating relevant lesson plans and practice problem sets.
Secondly, I like to assess prior knowledge by working through sample problems in a step by step fashion, ensuring the student understands that mistakes are necessary for improvement.
Once a student's knowledge base is established, I like to work on any remediation of skills that is necessary for progress. A strong foundation is the key to success.
After these three objectives are met, we approach new subjects in an appropriately paced, deliberate, and stepwise manner. Through frequent auditing of shown work problem solving skills are made habitual, and a deep understanding of the material forms.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
B.Sc. of Biomedical Sciences from Oakland University 2019
~1 year of subject tutoring and ACT/SAT prep at Huntington Learning Center
Between 1-2 years of analytical laboratory and applied science workforce experience
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$40/hour flat rate.
Bulk scheduling discount pricing and weekend pricing negotiation is available upon request.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching in my sophomore year of college to earn extra money and found that I really enjoyed helping people understand complex topics in math, science, literature, and language. I was working overnight shifts at a community non-profit hospital, but this schedule became unsustainable when coupled with the demands of the biomedical science coursework. I found a listing for a part time job at Huntington Learning Center near my apartment and began teaching there in my early senior year at Oakland University. I worked there until finding a listing for my current full time job at Absolute Laboratories.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have one-on-one and classroom experience with special education students.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently made a short text-based adventure game using Python!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
While it is important that your tutor is skilled in the subject matter you're hoping to master together, ensure they are also encouraging and kind. It is so much harder to learn when you feel that someone who is supposed to be teaching you makes you feel bad while you're trying your best.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
I personally have an open door policy regarding student questions. If you're asking questions, you're on the right track!