Expert Tutor with 10+ Years of Experience in Mathematics, Calculus, Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry

Find out more about Yasaman

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

  My interest in private tutoring began in high school, where I taught elementary and fellow high school students, enjoying the process of helping others understand difficult concepts and improve their academic performance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when in-person tutoring was no longer possible, I became familiar with SuperProf and continued my tutoring journey. I initially volunteered to tutor K-12 students, recognizing the financial challenges many families faced as jobs were lost. This experience deepened my commitment to education and community support. Since then, I have continued tutoring, finding joy in empowering students, tailoring my approach to their needs, and witnessing their growth and success.

• 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 a variety of subjects, including pre-calculus, calculus 1, calculus 2, pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, general chemistry 1 and 2, organic chemistry 1 and 2, genetics, and biology. I also provide consultation and support for pre-dental and pre-health students, helping with DAT preparation and offering guidance on the approach for applying to dental schools. My favorite subject to teach is organic chemistry, even though it was once my most challenging class as a student. Initially, I couldn’t understand how anyone could enjoy it, but the more I studied, the more I grew to appreciate its problem-solving nature. Calculus remains the most memorable subject for me, as it was where I began my tutoring journey more than 10 years ago, fueling my passion for teaching and mentoring students.

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

  Yes, I had a calculus professor who greatly inspired me. He was incredibly caring and patient, calmly repeating concepts for students who asked the same questions multiple times. He always encouraged us to do better, even when we felt stuck and frustrated. What stood out most was his unwavering belief in us, he saw our potential even when we doubted ourselves. He was polite, supportive, and never discouraged or reprimanded us. His positive attitude, belief in our abilities, and gentle persistence left a lasting impact on me. I aspired to be like him, to help students grow, believe in themselves, and realize their potential. His teaching approach continues to influence my tutoring style, as I strive to create a supportive and empowering learning environment.

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

  A good tutor requires a blend of technical expertise and interpersonal skills. Patience and empathy are key, as understanding that each student learns at their own pace is essential. A good tutor listens attentively, remains patient, and avoids judgment, providing a safe space for students to express their challenges. Strong communication skills are also crucial, as tutors need to break down complex concepts into simpler, more understandable terms, adapting their teaching style to the student's learning preferences. Encouragement and positivity are important for building a student’s confidence, helping them believe in their potential, even when they feel stuck. Flexibility and adaptability allow a tutor to adjust their approach based on the student's evolving needs, while mastery of the subject matter ensures the tutor can explain concepts clearly and address questions effectively. Ultimately, a good tutor fosters a supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to ask questions, make mistakes, and continue growing.

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

  One of the most memorable moments from my tutoring experience happened while I was tutoring a student in organic chemistry, a subject I initially struggled with myself. The student came to me feeling completely defeated, expressing how they just couldn’t grasp the concepts and were close to giving up. I could relate to their frustration because I had once felt the same way when I first took organic chemistry. I shared my own struggles and how, over time, with persistence and a shift in mindset, I began to enjoy and appreciate the subject. Together, we took small steps to break down the material, focusing on one concept at a time. Gradually, the student began to understand the connections and patterns, and with each small victory, their confidence grew. By the end of the semester, they passed the class with a solid grade, and they told me how much the tutoring sessions had helped them not just in understanding organic chemistry but also in believing in their ability to overcome challenges. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of persistence and how, as a tutor, sharing my own learning journey can inspire students to keep going.

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

  One of the biggest challenges I faced, especially when I was a student, was organic chemistry. I initially found it incredibly difficult and couldn’t understand how anyone could enjoy it. The structure, mechanisms, and patterns were overwhelming at first, and I struggled to see the logic behind it. It took time and a lot of effort to truly grasp the material, and there were many moments when I doubted my ability to succeed in the subject. However, through persistence, breaking down each concept, and seeking help when needed, I eventually grew to enjoy it.
  
  Now, as a tutor, I still encounter students who feel the same way I did, frustrated and discouraged by the complexity of organic chemistry. The challenge, for me, is to help them overcome their own doubts and to break down the material in a way that makes it approachable. I focus on building their confidence and showing them that, with time and persistence, they too can master the subject. The struggle to understand difficult concepts is something I can empathize with, and it motivates me to be patient and creative in my teaching approach.

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

  I have a deep passion for teaching, particularly when it comes to helping students build confidence and overcome academic challenges. While I genuinely enjoy teaching a variety of subjects, my greatest passion lies in making complex concepts, like those in organic chemistry, more accessible and engaging for students. What excites me most is the process of helping students understand something that initially feels overwhelming, and watching their confidence grow as they begin to grasp difficult concepts. The rewarding feeling of guiding someone to success, especially when they had doubts about their own abilities, is incredibly fulfilling.
  
  Beyond teaching, I’m also passionate about the broader aspect of mentorship, helping students realize their potential, encouraging them when they feel stuck, and empowering them to believe in themselves. I see teaching as more than just transferring knowledge; it's about fostering growth, both academically and personally, which is why I continue to feel so committed to tutoring and supporting students in their learning journeys.

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

  What makes me a Superprof is my genuine passion for helping students succeed and my commitment to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. Beyond just being knowledgeable in the subjects I teach, I believe my ability to empathize with students, especially when they feel frustrated or stuck, is what truly sets me apart. I’ve been where they are, struggling to understand complex material, and I know how transformative the right guidance and encouragement can be.
  
  I focus not just on teaching concepts, but on inspiring confidence and fostering a growth mindset. I tailor my teaching approach to meet the individual needs of each student, ensuring that they not only understand the material but also gain the self-belief that they can overcome challenges. My diverse experience, from tutoring high school students to providing consultation for pre-dental students, has also helped me develop a range of strategies to support students in different fields and at various stages of their academic journeys. All of this, combined with my dedication and passion, makes me a Superprof. ;)