About
I always loved science but used to hate math until I had a professor in college teach me how to Math. Since then I have fallen in love with the subject and it's capabilities of solving problems we didn't even know could be solved by math. My goal is to help students to understand math as something more than just formulas, but something you can use to further your life.
I am currently a doctoral student studying computational Biophysics. I graduated Penn State with a degree in Biochemistry with a minor in Physics. Worked at GlaxoSmithKline and helped to develop a rapid PCR Covid-19 test.
I really enjoy math, but I wasn't always that way. In fact in elementary and high school I LOATHED math. But I always did love chemistry and biology. It wasn't until I got to college and met a professor who was willing to teach me the basics that I now love math. Each problem, whether it be math, chemistry or biology is like a little puzzle and you learn the tools to solve that puzzle.
I want to help students who may be struggling in math to learn to love (or even tolerate) the subject.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Starting: I like to see their notes for the subject. Mainly to get a feel as to 1. How they take notes, and 2. The course content so far. I also like to get to know the student as each person has their own learning styles and processes. As well as their motivation for learning the subject better.
After I am pretty flexible. Especially on working hours. As a student myself I understand that you can't study every single day and that sometimes you just need extra help on one particular thing or more help at a specific time (like a week before the exam). I will try to go at the pace of the individual while keeping in mind that the school will also be continuing on. I also prefer to go through guided homework, rather than assigning my own as excess work does not yield results.
Likewise my style is different per age group and per student. In late highschool/college age students I take a more hands off approach where I'm not going to direct learning but rather go off what the student wants or feels they struggle with. Then work through problems together.
Middle school to early highschool I will do direct learning based on what the teacher had recorded on the syllabus with a focus on what the student is struggling with. The goal is to give a holistic approach rather than targeted information.
Elementary school children will get more of a lecture based expedition where core ideas presented by the teacher will be re-exposed in a different way with individual focus. When I say lecture it basically means I start the conversation, but it will be an active conversation where the student will be prompted to have a talk with me about the subject and what they think on it. Likewise with math it will focus on problem solving and ways to think about the problem.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Currently pursuing my doctorate in Biophysics
I have a bachelor's in Biochemistry with a minor in Applied Physics.
Masters in Computer Science
Collegiate Teaching assistant for 4 years in introductory physics and chemistry, thermodynamics, quantum chemistry, quantum physics, calculus I, calculus II, multivariable calculus, vector calculus and biochemistry
Elementary after school program helping with math and reading from kindergarten to grade 12.
My brother is autistic, my sister dyslexic with ADHD. All of which I have tutored through their elementary to college years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I do not have a standard pricing system. Generally we will go off of what we find is fair for a per session rate. I will accept payment plans and or monthly/weekly rates.
With that said I'm not doing this for money, my family was excruciatingly poor growing up and times are tough now. Just contact me with what you think is fair and we can talk about it.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching when my brother was diagnosed with autism. Since he struggled to tackle new people/places I enrolled in the afterschool program at his school to help him adjust. At the time I was also starting college and found that teaching was my passion. My goal is to become a professor one day and be able to teach the next generation.
What types of students have you worked with?
All kinds of students from the ones that didn't want to be there, to the ones that just couldn't understand. I found an interactive environment is best for everyone regardless of age, so I focus on active learning where we basically go through problems together with the student being the lead.
I am familiar tutoring autistic students and those with learning disabilities.