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Sean S.

Online Math Tutor

Online Math Tutor

$50/hour

4.8 (123 ratings)

  • 950 hours tutoring

  • Juneau, AK 99801

About Sean

Bio

Do you need help in math? I can help right now. My students are children, teens, adults, and elders, across nearly all demographics, including ESL. I bring an infectious enthusiasm for math, and I work hard to make math easy and comprehensible.

I will train you at your level to help you see math with fresh, new eyes. I will work with to understand what you do know, and what you don't. From there, I will explain how the words we use and the questions we ask can be translated into math...

Do you need help in math? I can help right now. My students are children, teens, adults, and elders, across nearly all demographics, including ESL. I bring an infectious enthusiasm for math, and I work hard to make math easy and comprehensible.

I will train you at your level to help you see math with fresh, new eyes. I will work with to understand what you do know, and what you don't. From there, I will explain how the words we use and the questions we ask can be translated into math expressions and equations. (From this, you will be prepared to tackle those dreaded "word problems"!)

And as you comprehend math concepts, you will be able to solve harder and more complex equations. I am entirely confident that you will get to the level of understanding and success that you need. All I ask of you is to put in your best effort in our sessions.

I have the over thirty years of teaching and tutoring experience. I started as a tutor while in high school. I began attending the Stevens Institute of Technology, and there I received my Baccalaureate in Science as a Mathematics Major in 1989. I began to charge for my tutoring services while attending college.

Throughout the 1990's and 2000's, I was a full-time substitute teacher in the Juneau School District, in the capital of Alaska. I quickly became to go-to-guy for several teachers whenever they had planned absences. It was here, at the University of Alaska (Southeast), where I started attending formal education courses. I was also served as an employee at UAS as an adjunct professor of remedial mathematics.

In the past eight years, I taught at several charter schools in Los Angeles, while taking more education classes at the California State University (Dominguez Hills). Currently, I am a few credits shy of my teaching certificate. I look forward to achieving this and a Master's degree, even while I continue to hone my skills.

When I first meet the student, my immediate goal is to determine in which topics they are having difficulty. I speak to the student, whatever age, with the respect that all people deserve. From this, cooperation is almost never an issue. During this time, I also gain insight into how the student learns, and what might be likely stumbling blocks, such as resentment towards authority, or a strong fear of failure.

I quickly determine which gaps exist for the student in the subject matter. I ask questions about their knowledge and present problems to test their abilities. While the student works on increasingly challenging questions that I pose, I review their textbook and other materials for official curriculum needs. As gaps become clear, I work to fill the most basic ones first.

For example, many times I have found a students unable to explain multiplication. In response, instead of handing over a times table, I bring a blank times-table, and ask the student to fill it in. When finished, I ask the student to point out patterns, and to explain what they have learned. By the end of the first session, the student has gained understanding of concepts, while I have learned about the student's knowledge and what steps must next be taken.

I will occasionally assign a little homework (never very much) to the student, usually straight from their textbook. I also often assign myself homework -- to review material for the next session, and to prepare examples for the student to consider. I make known to the student what homework I will be completing, and ask the student to recommend more. (The students appreciate that I get homework, and love assigning some to me!!)

I promise you that if you select me as your tutor, you will not be disappointed. I look forward to working with you.

Read more

Education

Stevens Institute of Technology, NJ
Mathematics
University of Alaska, Southeast
Graduate Coursework
California State University - Dominguez Hills
Graduate Coursework

Policies

  • Hourly rate: $50
  • Rate details: I request that all sessions are two hours each.
  • Tutor’s lessons: In-person and online
  • Travel policy: Within 40 miles of Juneau, AK 99801
  • Lesson cancellation: 8 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 1/12/2017

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Subjects

Business

GMAT,

GMAT

If necessary, I cover the format of the GMAT and the question types of the Integrated Reasoning and Quantitative Sections. Then I explain specific strategies for the different question types, which we return to as we cover both the math fundamentals and specific questions. In particular, several question types are reviewed in depth, since many are likely to occur once.
GRE,

GRE

To do well on the quantitative sections of the GRE, you must know more than just the mathematics of algebra and geometry. The newly revamped test has four types of questions on the Quantitative sections. These questions will require out-of-the-box thinking, beyond the skills taught in high school. I have been reviewing these question types, and have found strategies for them. Along with the math, I will teach you the format and how to successfully navigate the questions you that will confront you.
Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Excel

Arguably the single most important software ever developed, the spreadsheet is indespensible in any business endeavor. Its applications are extraordinary, and powerfully revealing information can be gleaned from data by even a moderately experienced user. I explain the very basics of MS Excel, including proper keyboard use so students learn quickly and efficiently. Then I teach "cut, copy, paste" along with basic functions, and how to quickly fill a column or row with data. Other functions are taught to collect and alter data, and formats are explained to show information in nearly any way imaginable.

Computer

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Excel

Arguably the single most important software ever developed, the spreadsheet is indespensible in any business endeavor. Its applications are extraordinary, and powerfully revealing information can be gleaned from data by even a moderately experienced user. I explain the very basics of MS Excel, including proper keyboard use so students learn quickly and efficiently. Then I teach "cut, copy, paste" along with basic functions, and how to quickly fill a column or row with data. Other functions are taught to collect and alter data, and formats are explained to show information in nearly any way imaginable.

Corporate Training

GMAT,

GMAT

If necessary, I cover the format of the GMAT and the question types of the Integrated Reasoning and Quantitative Sections. Then I explain specific strategies for the different question types, which we return to as we cover both the math fundamentals and specific questions. In particular, several question types are reviewed in depth, since many are likely to occur once.
Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Excel

Arguably the single most important software ever developed, the spreadsheet is indespensible in any business endeavor. Its applications are extraordinary, and powerfully revealing information can be gleaned from data by even a moderately experienced user. I explain the very basics of MS Excel, including proper keyboard use so students learn quickly and efficiently. Then I teach "cut, copy, paste" along with basic functions, and how to quickly fill a column or row with data. Other functions are taught to collect and alter data, and formats are explained to show information in nearly any way imaginable.

English

SAT Reading

Homeschool

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

Algebra is the generalization of arithmetic. Students have learned 2+3 and 3*5, but algebra allows for circumstances when a number is not known -- and often to solve such situations. ("I earn $350 each week, after 14% is withheld for taxes. How much should my weekly paycheck be?) Lines are thoroughly reviewed in algebra 1. I show students how linear equations occur in their lives, and how to understand both their graphs and their equations. But it's also important to understand their meaning. I explain how to understand graphs, and how to comprehend key clues.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Algebra 2, sometimes called precalculus, is a more complex review of algebra. Polynomials are studied in detail, specifically finding its "zeroes". I show students what the problems really ask, and the techniques to solve them. This class usually introduces trigonometry, a detailed study of circles. This course also goes into the relationship between parabolas and circles, and the equations and graphs of all conic sections.
Calculus,

Calculus

Calculus is a study of how variables change -- their rate of change, to use the proper vernacular. As an analogy, algebra can tell you the average speed of a rocket ship, but Calculus can tell you its exact speed at any time, just like an odometer. I show my students how Calculus is found nearly everywhere, including in business, medicine, and nature.
Geometry,

Geometry

Geometry is based on points, lines, and angles. As a study of figures in "a plane", many questions can be answered very early in a geometry class using the basic concepts of a straight angle. An example is "Why do the angles of a triangle add to 180°?" (Do you know why?) Other concepts build upon this, such as: "The sum of the exterior angles of a polygon is 360°." I explain how these concepts are viewed and how viewing them in right order shines light onto the entire course.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

I help students understand prealgebra by reviewing the basics of arithmetic and introducing concepts of generalization. For example, imagine you travel 4 mph faster on your bike than I do on mine. What speed are you going if I am going 12 mph? What's my speed if you're going 9 mph? These sorts of questions introduce concepts to students, concepts that build to the idea of a variable, a letter that is used for any unknown number.
Precalculus,

Precalculus

Precalculus is Algebra 2 or Algebra 3, because it includes the final study algebra prior to Calculus. Polynomials are studied in detail, including finding real and complex "zeroes" from Descartes' Rule of Signs. Also studied is trigonometry, the study of circles. I teach this in very clear terms, using circular props so students can visualize the sine and cosine waves. This course often ends with limits and an intro to the rate of change of a function, such as speed.
SAT Math,

SAT Math

I have taught the Mathematics portion of the SAT numerous times in the past, to groups and individuals. (I have created a workbook to assist students, which I am currently updating.) If needed, I first focus first on the format of the exam, and how to take advantage of the question types. Then I go over the content and the math needed to understand. Throughout, I discuss solving strategies with the student, so that they understand what to expect and how to approach the questions.
SAT Reading

Math

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

Algebra is the generalization of arithmetic. Students have learned 2+3 and 3*5, but algebra allows for circumstances when a number is not known -- and often to solve such situations. ("I earn $350 each week, after 14% is withheld for taxes. How much should my weekly paycheck be?) Lines are thoroughly reviewed in algebra 1. I show students how linear equations occur in their lives, and how to understand both their graphs and their equations. But it's also important to understand their meaning. I explain how to understand graphs, and how to comprehend key clues.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Algebra 2, sometimes called precalculus, is a more complex review of algebra. Polynomials are studied in detail, specifically finding its "zeroes". I show students what the problems really ask, and the techniques to solve them. This class usually introduces trigonometry, a detailed study of circles. This course also goes into the relationship between parabolas and circles, and the equations and graphs of all conic sections.
Calculus,

Calculus

Calculus is a study of how variables change -- their rate of change, to use the proper vernacular. As an analogy, algebra can tell you the average speed of a rocket ship, but Calculus can tell you its exact speed at any time, just like an odometer. I show my students how Calculus is found nearly everywhere, including in business, medicine, and nature.
Differential Equations,

Differential Equations

Differential equations is the study of equations that involving one or more derivatives of functions. The differential equation governs an unknown function, which is related to its own derivates. For example: What equation's rate of change is half of the equation itself? It is noteworthy that students are often required to prove that solutions exist, and that the solutions are unique, prior to actually deriving the solutions. The challenge of this course is a fascinating and complex study, in which differential equations are self-referential. I have found that students appreciate the meta of this subject, within the equations' meaning and the process of obtaining solutions.
Geometry,

Geometry

Geometry is based on points, lines, and angles. As a study of figures in "a plane", many questions can be answered very early in a geometry class using the basic concepts of a straight angle. An example is "Why do the angles of a triangle add to 180°?" (Do you know why?) Other concepts build upon this, such as: "The sum of the exterior angles of a polygon is 360°." I explain how these concepts are viewed and how viewing them in right order shines light onto the entire course.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

I help students understand prealgebra by reviewing the basics of arithmetic and introducing concepts of generalization. For example, imagine you travel 4 mph faster on your bike than I do on mine. What speed are you going if I am going 12 mph? What's my speed if you're going 9 mph? These sorts of questions introduce concepts to students, concepts that build to the idea of a variable, a letter that is used for any unknown number.
Precalculus,

Precalculus

Precalculus is Algebra 2 or Algebra 3, because it includes the final study algebra prior to Calculus. Polynomials are studied in detail, including finding real and complex "zeroes" from Descartes' Rule of Signs. Also studied is trigonometry, the study of circles. I teach this in very clear terms, using circular props so students can visualize the sine and cosine waves. This course often ends with limits and an intro to the rate of change of a function, such as speed.
SAT Math,

SAT Math

I have taught the Mathematics portion of the SAT numerous times in the past, to groups and individuals. (I have created a workbook to assist students, which I am currently updating.) If needed, I first focus first on the format of the exam, and how to take advantage of the question types. Then I go over the content and the math needed to understand. Throughout, I discuss solving strategies with the student, so that they understand what to expect and how to approach the questions.
Trigonometry

Trigonometry

Trigonometry is a detailed study of circles. Imagine a point on a circle, as the circle slowly turns. How does the point move as the circle moves? What is its height from the center, and left-right distance from the center? The study of trigonometry often involves graphing trig functions, the study and graphs of inverse trig functions, and trig identities. I explain these concepts and others in a straightforward manner, so students can see the basic functions and why they are studied.

Most Popular

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

Algebra is the generalization of arithmetic. Students have learned 2+3 and 3*5, but algebra allows for circumstances when a number is not known -- and often to solve such situations. ("I earn $350 each week, after 14% is withheld for taxes. How much should my weekly paycheck be?) Lines are thoroughly reviewed in algebra 1. I show students how linear equations occur in their lives, and how to understand both their graphs and their equations. But it's also important to understand their meaning. I explain how to understand graphs, and how to comprehend key clues.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Algebra 2, sometimes called precalculus, is a more complex review of algebra. Polynomials are studied in detail, specifically finding its "zeroes". I show students what the problems really ask, and the techniques to solve them. This class usually introduces trigonometry, a detailed study of circles. This course also goes into the relationship between parabolas and circles, and the equations and graphs of all conic sections.
Calculus,

Calculus

Calculus is a study of how variables change -- their rate of change, to use the proper vernacular. As an analogy, algebra can tell you the average speed of a rocket ship, but Calculus can tell you its exact speed at any time, just like an odometer. I show my students how Calculus is found nearly everywhere, including in business, medicine, and nature.
Geometry,

Geometry

Geometry is based on points, lines, and angles. As a study of figures in "a plane", many questions can be answered very early in a geometry class using the basic concepts of a straight angle. An example is "Why do the angles of a triangle add to 180°?" (Do you know why?) Other concepts build upon this, such as: "The sum of the exterior angles of a polygon is 360°." I explain how these concepts are viewed and how viewing them in right order shines light onto the entire course.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

I help students understand prealgebra by reviewing the basics of arithmetic and introducing concepts of generalization. For example, imagine you travel 4 mph faster on your bike than I do on mine. What speed are you going if I am going 12 mph? What's my speed if you're going 9 mph? These sorts of questions introduce concepts to students, concepts that build to the idea of a variable, a letter that is used for any unknown number.
Precalculus

Precalculus

Precalculus is Algebra 2 or Algebra 3, because it includes the final study algebra prior to Calculus. Polynomials are studied in detail, including finding real and complex "zeroes" from Descartes' Rule of Signs. Also studied is trigonometry, the study of circles. I teach this in very clear terms, using circular props so students can visualize the sine and cosine waves. This course often ends with limits and an intro to the rate of change of a function, such as speed.

Summer

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

Algebra is the generalization of arithmetic. Students have learned 2+3 and 3*5, but algebra allows for circumstances when a number is not known -- and often to solve such situations. ("I earn $350 each week, after 14% is withheld for taxes. How much should my weekly paycheck be?) Lines are thoroughly reviewed in algebra 1. I show students how linear equations occur in their lives, and how to understand both their graphs and their equations. But it's also important to understand their meaning. I explain how to understand graphs, and how to comprehend key clues.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Algebra 2, sometimes called precalculus, is a more complex review of algebra. Polynomials are studied in detail, specifically finding its "zeroes". I show students what the problems really ask, and the techniques to solve them. This class usually introduces trigonometry, a detailed study of circles. This course also goes into the relationship between parabolas and circles, and the equations and graphs of all conic sections.
Calculus,

Calculus

Calculus is a study of how variables change -- their rate of change, to use the proper vernacular. As an analogy, algebra can tell you the average speed of a rocket ship, but Calculus can tell you its exact speed at any time, just like an odometer. I show my students how Calculus is found nearly everywhere, including in business, medicine, and nature.
GED,

GED

I have taught this material for years to students across the entire spectrum of competence -- and confidence. While seeming to be easy for many, this is a critical area of study for those seeking to get their GED. I show my students how they do this math everyday, and I reveal how they can adopt the practices for real life. I cover arithmetic and then the basics of algebra, along with a sense of how the number system behaves.
Geometry,

Geometry

Geometry is based on points, lines, and angles. As a study of figures in "a plane", many questions can be answered very early in a geometry class using the basic concepts of a straight angle. An example is "Why do the angles of a triangle add to 180°?" (Do you know why?) Other concepts build upon this, such as: "The sum of the exterior angles of a polygon is 360°." I explain how these concepts are viewed and how viewing them in right order shines light onto the entire course.
SAT Math

SAT Math

I have taught the Mathematics portion of the SAT numerous times in the past, to groups and individuals. (I have created a workbook to assist students, which I am currently updating.) If needed, I first focus first on the format of the exam, and how to take advantage of the question types. Then I go over the content and the math needed to understand. Throughout, I discuss solving strategies with the student, so that they understand what to expect and how to approach the questions.

Test Preparation

GED,

GED

I have taught this material for years to students across the entire spectrum of competence -- and confidence. While seeming to be easy for many, this is a critical area of study for those seeking to get their GED. I show my students how they do this math everyday, and I reveal how they can adopt the practices for real life. I cover arithmetic and then the basics of algebra, along with a sense of how the number system behaves.
GMAT,

GMAT

If necessary, I cover the format of the GMAT and the question types of the Integrated Reasoning and Quantitative Sections. Then I explain specific strategies for the different question types, which we return to as we cover both the math fundamentals and specific questions. In particular, several question types are reviewed in depth, since many are likely to occur once.
GRE,

GRE

To do well on the quantitative sections of the GRE, you must know more than just the mathematics of algebra and geometry. The newly revamped test has four types of questions on the Quantitative sections. These questions will require out-of-the-box thinking, beyond the skills taught in high school. I have been reviewing these question types, and have found strategies for them. Along with the math, I will teach you the format and how to successfully navigate the questions you that will confront you.
SAT Math,

SAT Math

I have taught the Mathematics portion of the SAT numerous times in the past, to groups and individuals. (I have created a workbook to assist students, which I am currently updating.) If needed, I first focus first on the format of the exam, and how to take advantage of the question types. Then I go over the content and the math needed to understand. Throughout, I discuss solving strategies with the student, so that they understand what to expect and how to approach the questions.
SAT Reading

Resources

Sean has shared 1 answer and 1 article on Wyzant Resources.

Go to Sean’s resources

Ratings and Reviews

Rating

4.8 (123 ratings)
5 star
(99)
4 star
(22)
3 star
(2)
2 star
(0)
1 star
(0)

Reviews

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Featured review

Sean is great with teenagers

Sean is tutoring my 17 year old who has never liked math. She is actually understanding and beginning to realize that she can do this. Sean is excellent at presenting without talking down to her and stresses the positive and her taking responsibility for her education. I've used multiple tutors over the years and Sean is the best.

Phil, 11 lessons with Sean
Tutor responded:

Thanks so much, Phil!! Your 17-year-old has really begun to recognize the value of her own education, and is a pleasure to work with.

Sean S. is an excellent tutor.

Sean is a patient and methodical tutor. His knowledge of Algebra 2 is excellent. My son got a lot out of the session. I would certainly recommend Sean to others and will use him in the future.

Howard , 1 lesson with Sean
Tutor responded:

Thank you so much, Howard!! Your son made was an excellent progress during our session. I believe that his listening skills will serve him well...

Patient and thorough tutor

Sean has been a real help in boosting my daughter's confidence in Algebra. He takes his time explaining concepts thoroughly to make sure she understands something before moving on. Prior to the tutoring sessions, she was panicking and worried that she would not catch up. Now she is feeling confident in her abilities and understanding of the subject. I highly recommend Sean as a tutor.

Kate, 1 lesson with Sean
Tutor responded:

Thank you so much, Kate!! Your daughter works very hard to be a diligent student. It's always a pleasure to tutor her and watch as all the pieces come together. I genuinely hope that she is aware: with this level of work, she'll do extremely well with whatever she chooses in her life.

very knowledgeable tutor

Sean did a great job tutoring me!! We went over my review packet for my upcoming math test, focusing on area under the curve and derivatives. He was very good and patient when I didn’t understand.

Anna, 1 lesson with Sean
Tutor responded:

You are a dedicated student, Anna!! Your persistence will serve you well, at Berkeley and everywhere else!

Great!

A real brain 'fry' today! Clarified types of transformations; great examples w/interactive applications. White boards will be useful for future.

Kathy, 76 lessons with Sean
Tutor responded:

We had a full session this day! So much covered, and I am so glad we finally got to work with Trigonometry as a study of circles!

Great tutor.

Sean can help with any type of math. He's been able to answer all of my questions. He's also good at making you feel smart and like you can learn the subject, no matter how hard it is. Great tutor!!!

Ingrid, 20 lessons with Sean
Tutor responded:

He is such a great student! He really works hard, and it pays off. He knows how to study, and that gives him an edge. I'm really enjoying teaching him Calculus!

Great Tutor! Excellent Communicator!

Sean was absolutely EXCELLENT! He has an uncanny ability to turn difficult math concepts into something the average learner can understand. I highly recommend Sean to anyone that needs help with GMAT Quant., Geometry, Trig, and Calculus. He helped me get a great score on the GMAT Quant. and I am so grateful for his help.

S, 9 lessons with Sean

Patient tutor

I have had three classes with Sean and plan to take a few more. He is very professional and has so far been a life saver. I have struggled with excel for years and the one on one classes have helped me tremendously. As a professional in the business world, the refresher in math with the excel will be invaluable for any working environment.

KIM, 6 lessons with Sean
Tutor responded:

Thank you, Kim! You are clearly a dedicated student, and I look forward to continuing with you.

Great Tutor!

Sean is a great tutor. He focuses on getting you to understand the material and the concepts behind them. He also teaches you tricks to do with specific problems. He puts in a lot of work, and will do extra work out side of the session. He is a great guy, fun to talk to and wants to help you learn the material and succeed.

Jordan, 24 lessons with Sean
Tutor responded:

Thanks very much, Jordan! I'm so proud at how hard you worked; Calc II can be a difficult class, even for mathematics majors, and you deserved your final grade!

Best Math tutor ever

Sean has all the criteria of a great math tutor, not only he is very knowledgeable of the subject matter, he has the skill to transfer his knowledge to his students as well. For example, if you do not like or understand certain way of solving a problem, he show you several other ways to solve it. In addition, he is very good at identifying your weaknesses, and by giving you light homeworks he is able to help you out with that situation. Moreover, he is very organized and do not rush through materials just for the sake of covering them. Instead, he is very patient and take his time in terms of teaching math concepts with the pace that is comfortable for the student. Finally, he is a compassionate person with a big heart, because he does everything he can to help out his students and is not stingy with time like many other tutors some of whom finish their sessions even 10 minutes early. I am making claim that he is a best math tutor that I ever had because I worked with five other tutors and none of them can come close to Sean in terms of being knowledgeable, compassionate, and most important of possessing the art of teaching math.

Mike, 17 lessons with Sean
Tutor responded:

This is incredible feedback!!! Thank you so much! I am very impressed with how hard you work, and I am certain that you will get the score you need this time on the GRE.

Contact Sean

Response time: 4 minutes

$50/hour

Sean S.

$50/hour

  • No subscriptions or upfront payments

  • Only pay for the time you need

  • Find the right fit, or your first hour is free

Contact Sean

Response time: 4 minutes