I've always loved math. Ever since I can remember, I couldn't help but "think" in numbers and process the world in math. Naturally, something that came very easily to me was something that I enjoyed, so much so that I spent many hours of my free time in middle school on Khan Academy. Quite the funny memory.
Throughout my years in school, I developed a rich understanding of math and as I improved my ability to articulate my thinking I began to develop a knack for explaining mathematical (and related) concepts to my peers and also to younger students, and I enjoy doing so. Now, as a part time instructor and a private math tutor, I employ an engaging approach to teaching that encourages students to critically think through concepts so that they have a better understanding of material and are prepared to tackle future challenges on their own.
Here are some of my accomplishments in both of these roles.
Teaching
I have one year under my belt instructing grades 6-12 on various math and science subjects. My favorites include Algebra, Geometry, Physics, Chemistry, and Statistics. My longest continuous stint as a teacher was a two month position for 6th grade pre-algebra (covering maternity leave). I learned a lot about myself and teaching during that time; I am great with the students and explaining concepts, but I have a hard time enforcing rules and managing the classroom. I always tell people that teaching middle school is simultaneously the most exhausting and entertaining job I've had.
Tutoring
As mentioned before, I have helped my peers and younger students with math and science for many years, but it wasn't until a year ago that got organized with it.
My favorite student was one that came to me after receiving a soul-crushing 26% on a unit test for pre-calculus. We worked through tough concepts in the months leading up to the final exam before he walked away with an 86% on the final!
Another feel-good moment was when an 8th grade student expressed concerns about moving on from Algebra to Geometry, and after a few solid study sessions with her, she happily passed her entrance exam and moved on!
"It was great to leave my students in such great hands; I've heard amazing things about him!"
- Abby Beiber (Teacher)
"Wow, Danny's amazing, damn. I sat next to my daughter yesterday for her first session with him. He has got a gift, not just with the subject matter but with the way that he handles the students. I mean, so positive, so encouraging, so attentive and custom, I mean, wow. I'm so, so grateful for him, can we hire him for high school, next four years?"
- Stephanie Arnold de Verges (Parent; Tutoring)
"I'm so thankful for all of his help! My son literally wouldn't have been able to pass math without him :)"
- Dale Hanssen (Parent; Tutoring)