Alaina Swanson Tutoring
About
I am currently completing my masters degree in physics and I have been a TA for two years. I really love helping students 1 on 1. One of the best feelings as a tutor is when a student understands the material and feels confident in themselves.
I did not want to go into physics until my last year of high school, so I did not have a solid math or science background before I went to college. I firmly believe that everyone is capable of learning and enjoying math and physics- it just takes a good instructor!
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to understand how much background a student has with the subject. If we need to start at the very beginning, then we will. I also like to learn about the students interests, so perhaps we can relate physics/math to something they are passionate about.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I completed my bachelors degree from the University of Minnesota Morris in 2020. I majored in physics and minored in math.
I am currently finishing up my masters degree in physics at the University of Minnesota Duluth.
I am published on a physics research paper and was an intern at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in 2019.
I have been a TA for two years assisting students on problems in lecture and being the primary instructor for General Physics lab.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I typically charge $60 per lesson, but I am also willing to teach small groups of students for a discount (depending on the amount of students).
How did you get started teaching?
I began my masters degree in 2020 and was required by my program to be a TA (teaching assistant). I discovered that I like helping students 1 on 1 and would like to continue doing that after I graduate.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with college students taking introductory physics classes. I am confident that I would be capable of helping students in similar academic environments, including high school students.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find a tutor who makes you feel understood and is willing to explain a wide range of concepts to you. In my experience, students are afraid of asking for help because they worry that they are so far behind and they seem "dumb". A tutor should never make you feel dumb for asking questions.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students should prepare a list of concepts that they are learning about in class and give that to the tutor. It is very helpful for tutors to see what information you have been given in class and which concepts you are struggling with.