Adam Dowell

I'll begin with a 5-10 minute call to discuss the student's needs, answer their questions about my qualifications, and see if it's a good fit. This is at no cost. For college students, I also like to review the student's syllabus during the call.

The first session usually focuses on learning more about the student's strengths and weaknesses in the course. Although if there's an urgent test or assignment coming up, we can focus on preparing for that. After the first session, I usually have a good feel for the student and can recommend a specific learning plan.

I was a high school teacher for two years, teaching Algebra II and Geometry. I then spent a summer teaching myself how to code and moved to a data analyst/developer role. But I enjoyed teaching and have continued tutoring a few hours/week for 8 years now. I've worked with 100+ students. Most of my engagements focus on AP/SAT Prep, Algebra/Geometry, Physics, and Statistics.

Professionally, I have a BS in Economics from Northwestern University. I regularly code in R and Python for my day job. I've also trained entry-level data analysts in my organization and speak at conferences. For example, you can see details from one of my talks here: https://www.dcdatasummit.org/sessions

Minimum session length of 60 minutes for online and 90 minutes for in-person. Students may cancel or reschedule up to 24 hours in advance at no cost. I'll refund your first session if you do not wish to continue with me.

For in-person, I'm willing to travel anywhere in DC, Arlington, and Alexandria, and some areas in Fairfax, Montgomery, and Prince George's. I ask that you wear a mask during the session (as will I).

All types! I've worked with students who come in with a good handle of the material and are looking for a boost to get them into A+ range. And I've worked with students who feel completely underwater and have had a life-long struggle with math.

I've worked with students that are very disciplined and have good study habits, and those that need help structuring their time to be more efficient.

I've worked with all ages, from high school freshmen to military members returning to higher education later in life.

For statistics, economics, physics, computer science, and other applied math courses:

The most important quality to look for in a tutor is the ability to clearly explain concepts and break down problems into very simple parts. Most professors are hired for their technical chops or amazing mathematical abilities -- not their pedagogy -- which is why many students struggle. However, these courses do not require any more advanced math than HS Algebra. They challenge students because they require you to understand new concepts and decide which formula to use in different situations. Teachers who try to explain concepts with proofs and code often do a disservice to their students.

For SAT, ACT, and other test prep:

Most experienced tutors have a standard syllabus they work through composing 10-20 hours of content that's similar to what you'd get in a test-prep course with other students. So if you're looking for 1-on-1 support, choose a tutor with a personality you like.

If you've already done 20-30 hours of study, but are still struggling to improve, you probably have unique needs. You may be scoring at a very high level, really struggling with a certain type of question, or having difficulty learning the traditional way. In these cases, look for a tutor that has worked with a wide array of students and has experience crafting personalized study plans.

What are my goals for this course? How does this course fit into my larger academic plan or major?

What aspect of the course am I struggling with?

What are my strengths and weaknesses as a learner?