Columbia University Sophomore | Studying mechanical engineering | 5 on AP Physics 1 | 4 on AP Physics C Mechanics | A in 1600PHYS (mechanics) | A in 1602PHYS (e&m and relativity)

Find out more about Sara

• 1) When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  My journey as a tutor began in 10th grade when I ran volunteer tutoring labs in math, physics, and chemistry. I had classmates struggling with stoichiometry, peers needing an algebra refresher, or a group of panicked kids with a trigonometry test the next morning. I spent nearly 200+ hrs over my high school career, spending about 4 hrs per week on various subject labs for 3 years. With a wide range of needs and urgencies, I learned how to break down complex ideas into approachable steps, fill in gaps in their understanding, and tailor each session to meet individual needs. After high school, I’ve spent the past two years working as a freelance tutor on SuperProf, supporting a wide range of learners, from young kids tackling elementary math to undergraduates navigating college-level calculus. I’ve guided high schoolers through personalized ACT and SAT prep, sharing my tips/tricks and improving their current test-taking strategies. I hope to continue this work through Superprof Tutoring, and help students achieve brighter futures with academics and test preparation.

• 2) Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  I mostly like teaching SAT prep and mathematics, such as algebra and calculus. I've been tutoring for the SAT with Varsity Tutors for about a year now, so I've been looking at the practice tests a lot, and have become very accustomed to them. I also love introducing myself and chatting with the student a bit before we begin the tutoring, just so that we can break the ice and get to know each other!

• 3) Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  At Columbia University, I'm surrounded by classmates and peers who go above and beyond in their fields, and truly inspire me to be creative and bold with my approaches and goals every year. Being around them pushes me to strive and work harder, not just on my academic goals, but also my personal well being.

• 4) What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  A good tutor should have the ability to mold their explanations and techniques of tutoring to best fit the comprehension of the student. It would not matter if the tutor understands the problem or concept perfectly, if they are unable to communicate that concept in an understandable way to the student. The entire point is to share knowledge and understanding. I also believe a tutor should be kind, and gentle, so that students are comfortable to approach them with their concerns.

• 5) Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  If my dad ever saw my face fall, he’d inquire, “What’s wrong?”. When my shy persona delayed my response, he’d impart a silly yet powerful motto: “Every problem has a solution.” Without realizing it, it became my motto too, an impartial view I had on life. A broken friendship? Communicate and apologize. A decreased budget for this year’s activities planning? Adapt and budget for more affordable events. With this approach, I’ve lived a more peaceful and grateful existence. With time, I found that as people encounter adversity, they worry far too long about the problem existing. But I’ve grounded these people into thinking of solutions first, simply because I was taught that one existed, waiting to be found. Whether it be minor inconveniences or life-changing obstacles, I want to help others find that next step.

• 6) What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or are still facing in your subject?

  Sometimes there are certain skill sets or content in the SAT that the student hasn't learned in school yet, so it can be a bit difficult to teach that concept from scratch. However, I work to make sure that the student gets the background information they need to be successful even if they haven't learned the topic in school yet, or if they forgot it after taking that class a while ago.

• 7) Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  Making a drink is a necessity for most. To me, it's an art. A quality drink requires careful attention to the beverage's temperature, sweetness, and viscosity, adjusted to the drinker's liking. In the course How to Build a Drink, students will discover the essence of beverage-making while learning about drink culture from across the globe. Whether it be layered Chinese matcha poured over iced water, hot brewed chai with South Asian spices, or the bright fruit Che Thai cocktail Chè Thái from Vietnam, students will find the appreciation and skills to build these drinks for themselves and those around them.

• 8) What makes you a Superprof (besides answering this interview questions :-P)?

  I've been tutoring for 4+ years (and I'm only 19!) and I've been consistent with Superprof for a while. I can easily connect with students and make the learning journey something to look forward to!