Ethan Bodak
About
I really try to work with my students and help them achieve a detailed knowledge and understanding of the subject matter rather than teaching at them and asking them to simply regurgitate the information. Anyone can access the information; just read the textbook. A tutor--or any other teacher--on the other hand, is tasked with taking that information and translating it into something learnable that is specially tailored to their students. Moreover, I will work with my students until they arrive at a mastery of the material before moving on to new subject matter. In this way, their understanding builds upon itself, forming a strong foundation upon which they can continue to build their knowledge.
I am also conscious of the fact that teaching involves both the teacher and the student; it is the teacher's job to translate the information, but it is also the students' job to put effort into learning the information. Therefore, I work to make the subject matter enjoyable and engaging by connecting the information to everyday life through examples and cross connections with other subjects. In this way, students will not only have a desire to learn, but they will have a newfound appreciation for the subject as well.
I will be attending Princeton University in the fall, where I plan to get my teaching certificate, along with a masters in chemistry. Eventually, I hope to get a Ph.D. in chemistry and become a professor, where I will continue to prioritize achieving understanding through personalized education above mere repetition.
I beleive that knowledge is something made to be passed on. Like a sacred torch, education illuminates the world around us and allows us to navigate life. Knowledge also allows us to lead others out of the darkness by passing the flame, so-to-speak, onto others; this is the task of teachers. Therefore, when I am teaching, not only do I feel a sense of pride when my students succeed, but I also feel that I am serving a higher purpose in enabling my students to pursue their own life paths.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I always like to get to know my students before working with them. Not every student learns the same way, so it is important for me to know what the student struggles with and other information about how they learn before I begin teaching them.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am currently a student at Princeton University. I have been a teaching assistant for three years: one year as a biology T.A. and two years as a chemistry T.A. Throughout these three years, not only have I organized classrooms and chemicals, but I have also been able to teach the students as well. Moreover, I have been an employed math tutor for one year and am always willing to help my friends if they are struggling in their classes.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My rate usually depends on the subject; the higher the grade level of the subject matter, the higher the cost. As an estimate, I usually charge $12-$20 per hour.
How did you get started teaching?
Teaching has always been a passion of mine. My love of teaching really began with me helping out my classmates who were struggling in their classes and things just snowballed from there.
What types of students have you worked with?
As of yet, I have worked primarily with younger students (around 6th grade), but I am very willing and able to tutor high school students as well.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would encourage you to look for a teacher that is dedicated to their students, is passionate about teaching, and enjoys the subject matter (and is good at it too!).