PhD in Biology, teaching science for your needs! Making the most of an hour!

Find out more about Marta

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

  My interest in science began as a toddler when I wanted to know more about how everything in nature works. Later, at school, I realised that Biology wasn't just about memorising facts—it was about understanding how living organisms function and interact with the world around them. I was fascinated by topics such as genetics, human physiology, and ecology.
  
  My passion for Spanish developed through studying the language and discovering how language opens doors to different cultures, perspectives, and opportunities. Being able to communicate in another language is an incredibly valuable skill, especially such a widely spoken one and I enjoy helping students gain confidence in using it.
  
  I became interested in tutoring while helping friends and younger students with their studies. Seeing someone go from feeling confused or overwhelmed to understanding a topic and feeling confident was incredibly rewarding, and it inspired me to pursue tutoring more seriously.

• 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 teach Spanish, Biology, and general Science.
  
  In Biology, I particularly enjoy discussing genetics, cell biology, human physiology, and environmental science because they help students understand how life works at every level—from DNA to entire ecosystems.
  
  In Science, I enjoy encouraging students to think critically, ask questions, and connect scientific concepts to everyday life. Whether it's explaining why the sky is blue or how vaccines work, I love showing students that science is all around us.
  
  In Spanish, I enjoy helping students improve their conversational skills and confidence. Grammar is important, but I find it most rewarding when students begin using the language naturally and realise they can genuinely communicate in Spanish.
  
  Like many students, I find some highly memorisation-based topics less exciting than those involving problem-solving and discussion, but I always try to make every topic engaging and relevant.

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

  Absolutely. Some of the teachers who influenced me most were those who made difficult concepts feel approachable. They created classrooms where questions were welcomed and mistakes were treated as opportunities to learn rather than something to be embarrassed about.
  
  One Biology teacher in particular inspired me by showing genuine enthusiasm for the subject. Their passion was contagious and helped me realise that learning becomes much easier when it is driven by curiosity.

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

  A good tutor needs more than subject knowledge. Patience, communication, adaptability, and empathy are equally important.
  
  Every student learns differently. Some students need visual explanations, others prefer practical examples, and some learn best through discussion. A good tutor recognises these differences and adapts their teaching accordingly.
  
  Most importantly, a tutor should build confidence. Students often know more than they think they do, and helping them recognise their own ability can make a huge difference to their progress.

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

  I remember struggling with a particularly challenging Biology topic at school—genetics. Initially, all the terminology and processes seemed overwhelming. After spending time breaking the concepts down into simple diagrams and real-life examples, everything suddenly clicked.
  
  That experience taught me the importance of explaining complex ideas in a way that is accessible and memorable. It is something I now apply in my own tutoring, especially when students feel intimidated by difficult topics.

• What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still face in your subject?

  One challenge I faced was balancing understanding with memorisation. Subjects like Biology require both. It's not enough to simply remember facts—you need to understand how processes connect and why they happen.
  
  In Spanish, developing fluency can sometimes feel frustrating because progress isn't always immediately visible. However, consistent practice eventually leads to significant improvement, and that's a lesson I try to share with my students.
  
  These experiences have helped me understand the challenges students face and have made me a more patient and effective tutor.

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

  I am passionate about both teaching and learning. I enjoy helping students discover that subjects they once found difficult can actually become enjoyable and rewarding.
  
  In Biology, I am particularly fascinated by genetics and human biology. In Spanish, I love exploring language and culture and helping students become confident communicators.
  
  More broadly, I am passionate about education because it empowers people and creates opportunities that can have a lasting impact on their lives.

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

  I combine strong subject knowledge with a patient, supportive, and personalised approach to teaching. I understand that every student learns differently, so I tailor lessons to suit individual goals, strengths, and learning styles.
  
  My aim is not simply to help students pass exams, but to help them develop confidence, independence, and a genuine understanding of what they are learning. Whether a student needs help improving grades, preparing for exams, or building confidence in Spanish conversation, I am committed to helping them achieve their full potential.
  
  Most importantly, I genuinely enjoy seeing students succeed and celebrating their progress every step of the way.