Min's educational journey began in China, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Physics from Nanjing University. He then pursued a PhD in Physics from Iowa State University. This academic background has equipped Min with a deep understanding of the intricacies of math and physics, which he skillfully translates into accessible, engaging lessons for students. Min has over a decade of experience as an educator and tutor, teaching over 1000 students.
Min has served as an Adjunct Instructor of Physics at Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) and as a Physics tutor at the Academic Achievement Center (AAC) of DMACC. In these roles, he has honed his ability to adapt his teaching style to suit the diverse learning needs of his students, creating a supportive environment that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
One of Min's greatest strengths as a tutor is his ability to make complex subjects interesting and relatable to students. He employs a variety of strategies to engage learners, such as incorporating humor, suspense, and storytelling into his lessons, using interactive quizzes and YouTube clips to prompt discussion, and asking thought-provoking questions that encourage students to explore the material more deeply. By making the content relevant and accessible, Min helps students develop a genuine interest in math and physics, setting them up for long-term success in these subjects.
When students encounter learning blocks, Min draws upon his extensive teaching experience to provide targeted support. He breaks down complex topics into manageable chunks, uses visual aids to illustrate connections between concepts, and engages students in active learning techniques such as peer teaching and hands-on activities. Min also emphasizes the importance of metacognition and self-reflection, teaching students how to monitor their own learning and develop strategies for overcoming challenges.
To keep students motivated, Min sets clear goals, provides frequent feedback, and creates a positive learning environment that encourages effort and celebrates progress. He helps students see the relevance of what they're learning, offers real-life rewards for success, and serves as a role model for lifelong learning and personal growth.
Min approaches each student with compassion, understanding that learning can be challenging and offering support and encouragement every step of the way. His natural curiosity drives him to explore creative ways of explaining concepts, while his adaptability allows him to adjust his teaching style to suit individual learning preferences. Above all, Min is a patient mentor who celebrates small victories and encourages persistence, helping students develop the confidence and skills they need to succeed.
Jamila earned her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Cell Science from the University of Florida and is currently an MD candidate at the University of South Florida. Her journey into tutoring began when she observed her classmates grappling with complex physics concepts, inspiring her to embark on the mission of simplifying these topics. Since then, she has been a dedicated tutor for three years.
Specializing in tutoring biology, chemistry, physics, statistics, and SAT prep, Jamila empathizes with the challenges these subjects present and is fueled by a desire to make them more accessible.
As a tutor, Jamila actively engages students in their own learning process, encouraging them to pinpoint weaknesses or gaps in understanding before she provides her observations. Demonstrating her commitment to providing the most effective support, Jamila conducts thorough research in the subjects she tutors.
Jamila's strength as a tutor lies in her unwavering dedication. She stands firm in supporting her students, employing a diverse range of resources and tools to maintain their engagement and foster a deep understanding of the material.
Outside of tutoring, Jamila spends her time long-distance running and spending time with her cat Einstein.
Hannah earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pennsylvania before obtaining a Master of Science from Johns Hopkins University. With extensive experience in student guidance, including five years as a high school mathematics teacher and tutor and teaching college bridge courses to high school graduates, Hannah brings a wealth of knowledge to her coaching role.
As a classroom teacher, Hannah built interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills while providing high-quality support to students, their families, and colleagues. After constantly answering college and financial aid questions, she realized her passion for counseling students toward their higher education goals.
As a coach, Hannah loves getting to know students holistically to understand their interests and passions and help uplift those skills. She is a cheerleader and motivator, believing in students even when they don't believe in themselves. Recognizing the anxiety and overwhelm that can accompany the admissions process, she aims to alleviate stress and always lends a listening ear when students need to vent. One of her go-to mentoring methods for helping students manage tasks is the Pomodoro Technique: 25 minutes of focused work, followed by a 5-minute break, with a longer 30-minute break every 90 minutes. This approach allows her to help students break down large tasks into manageable, bite-sized chunks.
Hannah is excited to support students in the admissions process and ensure they submit compelling applications to schools where they can thrive and contribute to a diverse school community!
In her free time, Hannah enjoys being outdoors as much as possible, where she rock climbs, runs, skateboards, hikes, and surfs. She lived in Hawaii for three and a half years and learned how to surf there. Now, she surfs in a wetsuit in the freezing cold water of New York City at Rockaways Beach! She is also an avid reader, puzzle-solver, and cook.
Foundation Learning’s math tutors have teaching experience or hold a college degree in math.
Yes, parent involvement is always welcomed! Our tutors always aim to keep families and students on the same page to minimize confusion and maximize progress and open communication.
We pair students with their best-fit tutor using the information supplied in the intake form and input from families and students. Our math tutoring programs focus on rectifying areas where students struggle before helping them excel in key math concepts. Tutors are selected based on family/student needs, preferences, and goals.
The tutoring package best suited for your child depends on the level of support they need, what specific concepts they need help with, and the schedule that works best for you and them. Unsure how much support your child needs? Speak with us today to learn more about your options!