Tutor/Teacher of Mathematics, all levels

Michael G.

I am a semi-retired Software Engineer who has maintained a passion for Mathematics throughout my career. While an Undergraduate at UC Berkeley, I taught Math and French in local High Schools, and Tutored High School students. I enjoy all levels of Algebra and Geometry, Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus, Calculus, and special areas beyond this. Recently, I tutored and taught at a local Charter School.

My experience has been with students of all ages, from children of friends, work colleagues, everywhere in between, such as Middle and High School levels, some SAT prep, some AMC problem. A Calculus class I taught years ago was described as a “Life Changer” to my 7 students, who all entered UC Berkeley in technical fields. A girl had been declared by her School as a "lost cause” in Math, which I found unacceptable. 8 2-hour weekends later, she got one of the highest scores in the School. I have taught Middle-High School students who were ‘bored’ with the curriculum, so I chose more challenging material, and we all had a blast. 2 twins, 2 bro/sis, 12-13 year olds are all now in Schools for the Gifted. Some students needed a lot of patience and catching up… my personality lines up well with the whole spectrum.

I prefer ‘understanding’ to ‘memorization’, and while it is helpful to commit some basics to memory, derivation of what is needed when needed stems from understanding. I consider myself a ‘Student’ who happens to know a few more things, rather than ‘the Teacher’ who lectures. I welcome lots of questions, and marvel at other perspectives and creative angles each student brings. I prefer to evoke a student’s curiosity and unique way of understanding, upon which to build.
Teaching/Tutoring did precede my 40 year Software Career, but I Tutored throughout, and am now back, doing what I have always loved. To conclude, my favorite moment is that “Ahah !” moment when the student suddenly realizes something that had been missing, a link. Such moments are the best.