Serena Nicoll
About
I specialize in adapting my teaching styles to the student's style of learning, be it visual, kinesthetic, or more traditional. I prioritize conceptual understanding, and enjoy working with students step by step so that they understand the work process, not just the memorization of steps to achieve a goal. I am accustomed to working with students of all ages and ability levels.
I enjoy working with students talented in all areas, and love helping students achieve their goals. As a student in college who has seen many different styles of teaching, it is always gratifying to form a connection with my students and to be able to help them not only pass a class or a test, but to stimulate a genuine understanding and enjoyment of a subject.
Photos and videos
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I begin by working with the student to figure out how they learn best, and what specific areas they have difficulty with. I address those issues individually, and try to bring in ideas from concepts they do understand to help them. My typical strategy is to work through example problems and projects step-by-step with the student as necessary, so that each topic we study is confirmed after learning it.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I currently work as a community advisor at a residential dorm at the University of Minnesota. As part of that job, I help tutor, advise, and help many younger college students with their classes and navigating college.
In high school, I also offered regular babysitting services for children of all ages, and am accustomed to planning activities and understanding how to keep attention focused in a positive way.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I price my lessons on the difficulty of the subject and the time of the lesson - rates are hourly, and usually between 10-15$ an hour.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked extensively with elementary school children as part of a buddy program sponsored by my university. I assisted not only with schoolwork, but with interpersonal skills and recreational time.
I am also accustomed to working with high school and college students, having been a peer tutor at my high school and subsequently a community advisor in college
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for someone who can explain your question to you in simple terms, without use of predetermined algorithms or equations. Understanding how to think about a problem is just as important is knowing the steps to solve it.