About
I've been studying and tutoring mathematics for the last 10 years. I know that math can be a difficult and even unlikable subject for a lot of people. I like showing them that they can do more than they think and helping them enjoy math as the beautiful subject it is.
I have a lot of teaching experience. I've tutored privately for the last 7 years and I also worked as a tutor for NC State and Mathnasium. I also worked as a TA in grad school. I have experience working with kids as young as 5 through college age.
I enjoy sharing my passion for math with students who are struggling to appreciate the subject due to its difficulty. There's a lot of very interesting and cool applications for many math topics that people may not think of, so it's fun to show them a side of math they've never seen. I also genuinely like to help people and tutoring is a great way to combine my interests and passions with helping others.
Reviews
Charles K.
Anne B.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
My process for working with a new student is first to determine the subject material that they're currently working on and where they feel they need the most help. Typically students ask for homework help and test prep, but I like to focus on building up a conceptual understanding so that the students can solve problems on their own when the time comes.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a BS and an MS in mathematics as well as a BA in physics from NC State University. I graduated Suma Cum Laude in undergrad and earned a 3.97/4.0 for graduate school. I have worked as a private tutor throughout my time in college, and I also worked with Mathnasium for a few years. I tutored students at NC State in college physics as well as several high school students studying for their AP exams. I have experience working with ages ranging from 5 to college age.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
For k-8 material I charge $40-55/hour. When booking longer sessions (2 hrs vs 1 hr) I am willing to offer a reduced rate. For high-school and college level material I typically charge $60-70/hour due to the rigour involved with teaching a complex subject. I am willing to work with students on pricing to come to an agreement that works for all parties.
How did you get started teaching?
I have always had a passion for sharing my knowledge with others. I firmly believe that one of the best ways to really learn a subject yourself is to teach it to someone else. I love math and I know that many people don't feel the same way. When I work with a student struggling with math, I see it as an opportunity to show someone how beatiful and interesting math can be. There is a lot more to math than just solving algebra problems. Teaching gave me an opportunity to share what I know and to give back.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students ranging between first grade and college. I have worked with students who are really struggling with math and don't relate to it well, as well as students who feel they are doing well in math, but want to work ahead.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently had the opportunity to have Thanksgiving dinner with my family. These are very uncertain times and I was lucky enough to be able to see my parents and safely spend the day with them. We had a quiet day at home, we had great food, and we all watched the parade together.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would advise students looking to hire a math tutor to focus on conceptual learning. Homework help and studying help are amazing tools, but I firmly believe that buidling the underlying concepts is the most important building block to learning math. Math is highly cumulative. It builds upon itself, so having a strong foundation is crucial to understanding future material. That being said, practicing actual problems is always important. Find a tutor that makes the learning process interesting. Somone that you relate to and can respect. Find a tutor that makes you feel comfortable asking questions and admitting when you're confused or lost.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
I think its important for students to be honest with themselves. A lot of people are afraid to ask for help because they think it makes them look dumb or that they can't handle the class. That is completely false. Math is a difficult subject and it takes time to work through things and make sure you've understood them. Ask yourself if you've given yourself enough time with the material. Make sure you're not avoiding asking for help. Teachers and tutors primary goal is to help you to learn and questions are a vital part of that journey.