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Donovan H.

Teacher and Math Tutor with a Deep Content Knowledge

Teacher and Math Tutor with a Deep Content Knowledge

$80/hour

5.0 (149 ratings)

  • 364 hours tutoring

  • Germantown Philadelphia, PA 19144

About Donovan

Bio

The most important thing for a student is a deep understanding of the math content. I will work with the student at any grade level to move toward understanding rather than memorization. This will help reduce test anxiety and lead to better longterm outcomes.

We will work together to sharpen the problem-solving abilities, so that the student can feel confident to overcome any problem.

I bring my knowledge and experience from the middle school and high school classroom into our tutoring...

The most important thing for a student is a deep understanding of the math content. I will work with the student at any grade level to move toward understanding rather than memorization. This will help reduce test anxiety and lead to better longterm outcomes.

We will work together to sharpen the problem-solving abilities, so that the student can feel confident to overcome any problem.

I bring my knowledge and experience from the middle school and high school classroom into our tutoring sessions to ensure that the student is progressing in the areas that are required for success in high school and beyond.

The most successful math students understand the practical applications of the concepts that they are learning in class. I bring my practical experience with math from studying and working in civil engineering with me as I help tie the concepts that the student is learning in math classes to those everyday experiences.

In addition, I would be glad to help you with any computer questions you might have, so please reach out if you would like any assistance with setting up your computer or network, or if you just want to make sure that you are maximizing your productivity!

Read more

Education

Lafayette College
Civil Engineering
Drexel University
Masters

Policies

  • Hourly rate: $80
  • Tutor’s lessons: In-person and online
  • Travel policy: Within 6 miles of Philadelphia, PA 19144
  • Lesson cancellation: 10 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 5/5/2016

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Sat

Subjects

Business

GRE,

GRE

I took the GRE in 2012, after the new GRE had been implemented. I scored in a high percentile, and can help any student to succeed in the math topics that are covered in the GRE.
Microsoft Excel,

Microsoft Excel

All through college I used Excel to present my data, and in the workplace I have done the same. I love to develop formulas that make the routine processes easier, and less time-consuming. If you are just jumping in with Microsoft Excel, I can help you make the experience enjoyable and productive.
Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word

I can help users to use Microsoft Word to prepare professional documents such as resumes, papers, lesson plans, etc. My expertise is in helping to find the "little things" that people might not know Microsoft Word is capable of.

Computer

General Computer,

General Computer

If you are someone who feels like you aren't getting the productivity that you could out of your computer, I can help you. I have always spent my time tinkering with the settings in order to maximize the efficiency with which a computer can operate. So, whether you need help setting up your wireless network, setting your desktop background, or configuring a new printer, I can do pretty much anything!
Macintosh,

Macintosh

I have owned a Mac since my senior year of high school (2007), and have been using one ever since. I am especially well-versed in helping people to make the transition from Windows to Mac, as I assisted my parents in the process. My services would be best suited to helping customize a Mac in order to best serve the needs of the user.
Microsoft Excel,

Microsoft Excel

All through college I used Excel to present my data, and in the workplace I have done the same. I love to develop formulas that make the routine processes easier, and less time-consuming. If you are just jumping in with Microsoft Excel, I can help you make the experience enjoyable and productive.
Microsoft Outlook,

Microsoft Outlook

I've been using Microsoft Outlook in a professional setting since 2011, and have learned the ins and outs of the program. I would be able to answer questions regarding how to schedule meetings, import and export contacts and meetings, and creating to-do lists. I can also help to set up the program to automatically sync with smartphones.
Microsoft Windows,

Microsoft Windows

I have used Windows in a professional and recreational setting for about 15 years. I have Windows 8 on my computer, and I can help people who are struggling with the adjustment to the new Operating System. I can set up the computer to be customized to best suited for the user (trackpad settings, wireless printing, etc.).
Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word

I can help users to use Microsoft Word to prepare professional documents such as resumes, papers, lesson plans, etc. My expertise is in helping to find the "little things" that people might not know Microsoft Word is capable of.

Corporate Training

General Computer,

General Computer

If you are someone who feels like you aren't getting the productivity that you could out of your computer, I can help you. I have always spent my time tinkering with the settings in order to maximize the efficiency with which a computer can operate. So, whether you need help setting up your wireless network, setting your desktop background, or configuring a new printer, I can do pretty much anything!
Microsoft Excel,

Microsoft Excel

All through college I used Excel to present my data, and in the workplace I have done the same. I love to develop formulas that make the routine processes easier, and less time-consuming. If you are just jumping in with Microsoft Excel, I can help you make the experience enjoyable and productive.
Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word

I can help users to use Microsoft Word to prepare professional documents such as resumes, papers, lesson plans, etc. My expertise is in helping to find the "little things" that people might not know Microsoft Word is capable of.

Elementary Education

Reading

Reading

I have volunteered for numerous organizations to help students get back up to grade level in their reading. My wife (an elementary school teacher) has also shown me the essentials for helping students get back on track. In addition, I have a passion for reading, and I believe it is essential to ignite that passion so that others can be spurred on to learn to read.

English

Reading

Reading

I have volunteered for numerous organizations to help students get back up to grade level in their reading. My wife (an elementary school teacher) has also shown me the essentials for helping students get back on track. In addition, I have a passion for reading, and I believe it is essential to ignite that passion so that others can be spurred on to learn to read.

Homeschool

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 is my favorite subject. I will be teaching my 8th grade class this material in the fall, and I look forward to helping any student I get the opportunity to work with master the material. I know that it is a fundamental building block for any student's math career, and I will settle for nothing less than a rock solid foundation for each student.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Research has shown that success in algebra 2 is correlated with future success, even in careers that are not directly related to math. The problem solving techniques necessary for this can be taught and practiced, and I will work with each of my students to ensure that she or he has those tools necessary for future success. I have worked through this material as a student and applied it in my professional career as a civil engineer, and my understanding of its application to everyday life will help make the content more enjoyable for each student.
Calculus,

Calculus

I studied civil engineering in college. During my coursework, I took Calc I, Calc II, Calc III and Differential equations. My knowledge of calculus was also applied in my structural engineering coursework during senior year.
Geometry,

Geometry

I worked as a civil engineer, and needed to use my knowledge of geometry nearly every day. I found that I could create shapes for the structures we were building faster by using the principles from geometry than if I tried to rely on the computer to create those shapes. In addition, I studied and mastered geometry in high school, and I recognize the life applications for each student, regardless of his/her life goals.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

Prealgebra is another fundamental component of a math education. The tools gained here will transfer into success after school, whether in college or in a career. I will focus in on the problem solving techniques necessary for success, helping to connect the blocks learned in prealgebra to everyday life in order to engage all students.
Reading,

Reading

I have volunteered for numerous organizations to help students get back up to grade level in their reading. My wife (an elementary school teacher) has also shown me the essentials for helping students get back on track. In addition, I have a passion for reading, and I believe it is essential to ignite that passion so that others can be spurred on to learn to read.
SAT Math

SAT Math

SAT Math is something that every student can ace. I truly believe that with the right training, every student can get to an 800. My 780 on the SAT math section was due to not reviewing one concept (matrices) before going into the exam, and I therefore ran out of time while solving that problem. I will ensure that every student knows each of the types of problems and has mastered them in order to maximize their score on the SAT math section.

Math

ACT Math,

ACT Math

As part of my civil engineering degree, I gained a firm grasp on mathematical concepts including all of the critical concepts covered by the ACT math section. I will work specifically with students to target the areas that can be focused on in order to maximize success on the test. I have also taken this exam, and I know the pressures associated with preparing for it, so I will focus on creating situations that equip the student for the day of the test in order to truly convey the material that they have mastered.
Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 is my favorite subject. I will be teaching my 8th grade class this material in the fall, and I look forward to helping any student I get the opportunity to work with master the material. I know that it is a fundamental building block for any student's math career, and I will settle for nothing less than a rock solid foundation for each student.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Research has shown that success in algebra 2 is correlated with future success, even in careers that are not directly related to math. The problem solving techniques necessary for this can be taught and practiced, and I will work with each of my students to ensure that she or he has those tools necessary for future success. I have worked through this material as a student and applied it in my professional career as a civil engineer, and my understanding of its application to everyday life will help make the content more enjoyable for each student.
Calculus,

Calculus

I studied civil engineering in college. During my coursework, I took Calc I, Calc II, Calc III and Differential equations. My knowledge of calculus was also applied in my structural engineering coursework during senior year.
Civil Engineering,

Civil Engineering

I studied civil engineering at Lafayette College and earned a Bachelor's of Science in the field. I worked as an intern at the Department of Transportation, conducted research after my sophomore year with a professor at Lafayette, and I worked as an intern for a consulting firm after my junior year. I passed the fundamentals of engineering exam (FE) in the spring of my junior year. I also worked for a year as an Engineer-in-training at a private firm.
Geometry,

Geometry

I worked as a civil engineer, and needed to use my knowledge of geometry nearly every day. I found that I could create shapes for the structures we were building faster by using the principles from geometry than if I tried to rely on the computer to create those shapes. In addition, I studied and mastered geometry in high school, and I recognize the life applications for each student, regardless of his/her life goals.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

Prealgebra is another fundamental component of a math education. The tools gained here will transfer into success after school, whether in college or in a career. I will focus in on the problem solving techniques necessary for success, helping to connect the blocks learned in prealgebra to everyday life in order to engage all students.
SAT Math

SAT Math

SAT Math is something that every student can ace. I truly believe that with the right training, every student can get to an 800. My 780 on the SAT math section was due to not reviewing one concept (matrices) before going into the exam, and I therefore ran out of time while solving that problem. I will ensure that every student knows each of the types of problems and has mastered them in order to maximize their score on the SAT math section.

Most Popular

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 is my favorite subject. I will be teaching my 8th grade class this material in the fall, and I look forward to helping any student I get the opportunity to work with master the material. I know that it is a fundamental building block for any student's math career, and I will settle for nothing less than a rock solid foundation for each student.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Research has shown that success in algebra 2 is correlated with future success, even in careers that are not directly related to math. The problem solving techniques necessary for this can be taught and practiced, and I will work with each of my students to ensure that she or he has those tools necessary for future success. I have worked through this material as a student and applied it in my professional career as a civil engineer, and my understanding of its application to everyday life will help make the content more enjoyable for each student.
Calculus,

Calculus

I studied civil engineering in college. During my coursework, I took Calc I, Calc II, Calc III and Differential equations. My knowledge of calculus was also applied in my structural engineering coursework during senior year.
Geometry,

Geometry

I worked as a civil engineer, and needed to use my knowledge of geometry nearly every day. I found that I could create shapes for the structures we were building faster by using the principles from geometry than if I tried to rely on the computer to create those shapes. In addition, I studied and mastered geometry in high school, and I recognize the life applications for each student, regardless of his/her life goals.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

Prealgebra is another fundamental component of a math education. The tools gained here will transfer into success after school, whether in college or in a career. I will focus in on the problem solving techniques necessary for success, helping to connect the blocks learned in prealgebra to everyday life in order to engage all students.
Reading

Reading

I have volunteered for numerous organizations to help students get back up to grade level in their reading. My wife (an elementary school teacher) has also shown me the essentials for helping students get back on track. In addition, I have a passion for reading, and I believe it is essential to ignite that passion so that others can be spurred on to learn to read.

Science

Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering

I studied civil engineering at Lafayette College and earned a Bachelor's of Science in the field. I worked as an intern at the Department of Transportation, conducted research after my sophomore year with a professor at Lafayette, and I worked as an intern for a consulting firm after my junior year. I passed the fundamentals of engineering exam (FE) in the spring of my junior year. I also worked for a year as an Engineer-in-training at a private firm.

Summer

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 is my favorite subject. I will be teaching my 8th grade class this material in the fall, and I look forward to helping any student I get the opportunity to work with master the material. I know that it is a fundamental building block for any student's math career, and I will settle for nothing less than a rock solid foundation for each student.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Research has shown that success in algebra 2 is correlated with future success, even in careers that are not directly related to math. The problem solving techniques necessary for this can be taught and practiced, and I will work with each of my students to ensure that she or he has those tools necessary for future success. I have worked through this material as a student and applied it in my professional career as a civil engineer, and my understanding of its application to everyday life will help make the content more enjoyable for each student.
Calculus,

Calculus

I studied civil engineering in college. During my coursework, I took Calc I, Calc II, Calc III and Differential equations. My knowledge of calculus was also applied in my structural engineering coursework during senior year.
Geometry,

Geometry

I worked as a civil engineer, and needed to use my knowledge of geometry nearly every day. I found that I could create shapes for the structures we were building faster by using the principles from geometry than if I tried to rely on the computer to create those shapes. In addition, I studied and mastered geometry in high school, and I recognize the life applications for each student, regardless of his/her life goals.
Reading,

Reading

I have volunteered for numerous organizations to help students get back up to grade level in their reading. My wife (an elementary school teacher) has also shown me the essentials for helping students get back on track. In addition, I have a passion for reading, and I believe it is essential to ignite that passion so that others can be spurred on to learn to read.
SAT Math

SAT Math

SAT Math is something that every student can ace. I truly believe that with the right training, every student can get to an 800. My 780 on the SAT math section was due to not reviewing one concept (matrices) before going into the exam, and I therefore ran out of time while solving that problem. I will ensure that every student knows each of the types of problems and has mastered them in order to maximize their score on the SAT math section.

Test Preparation

ACT Math,

ACT Math

As part of my civil engineering degree, I gained a firm grasp on mathematical concepts including all of the critical concepts covered by the ACT math section. I will work specifically with students to target the areas that can be focused on in order to maximize success on the test. I have also taken this exam, and I know the pressures associated with preparing for it, so I will focus on creating situations that equip the student for the day of the test in order to truly convey the material that they have mastered.
GRE,

GRE

I took the GRE in 2012, after the new GRE had been implemented. I scored in a high percentile, and can help any student to succeed in the math topics that are covered in the GRE.
Praxis,

Praxis

I received a certificate of excellence in the mathematics praxis. The math praxis covers the material that I teach in my classroom everyday (8th grade math), and I have several textbooks to help guide teachers-to-be through the studying process. I have also held tutoring sessions with fellow teachers seeking certification in math in order to help them pass the praxis.
SAT Math

SAT Math

SAT Math is something that every student can ace. I truly believe that with the right training, every student can get to an 800. My 780 on the SAT math section was due to not reviewing one concept (matrices) before going into the exam, and I therefore ran out of time while solving that problem. I will ensure that every student knows each of the types of problems and has mastered them in order to maximize their score on the SAT math section.

Resources

Donovan has shared 3 answers and 2 articles on Wyzant Resources.

Go to Donovan’s resources

Ratings and Reviews

Rating

5.0 (149 ratings)
5 star
(144)
4 star
(4)
3 star
(0)
2 star
(1)
1 star
(0)

Reviews

Show reviews that mention

All reviews explained things patient good at explaining patient with my daughter easier to understand

Featured review

Great and patient tutor

Donovan helped my 7th grader prepare for both the math and literacy sections of the PSSA standardized test. He was reliable, friendly, and patient. He had a respectful, low-key manner when teaching my daughter that I think worked very well for her. My daughter says she felt comfortable asking for help and that he explained things clearly when she needed clarification. I'm very satisfied with the experience and I'm confident that he gave her good preparation for the test. I would definitely recommend him.

Carole, 14 lessons with Donovan

Good for high school students

Donovan was a good teacher, but his grasp of more advanced calculus techniques used in college-level Calculus 2 & 3 classes, was not so good. That said, Donovan was personable, and mostly on time, so I guess that's something in his favor.

Jonathan, 2 lessons with Donovan

Excellent tutor!

I dropped out of school at 15 and I am pretty sure I had math PTSD. On my first lesson with Donovan I barely even knew my multiplication tables (at 25 years old) and I was frightened. Donovan helped me feel confident and worthy every single lessons I had with him. I started from the lowest level and within a year at CCP with the help of Donovan I ended up with an A in pre-calculus. I am now a Temple student (starting in the fall) and I know that I will use Donovan as soon as I need support. Thanks for everything Donovan!

Meryl, 44 lessons with Donovan

K-12 Praxis Prep.

I have been a student of Donovan's for a couple of months now, as I am prepping for my k-12 Math Praxis. I have my undergrad in Math, but I always struggled with calculus and taking tests in general. While reviewing for my test, I ran into all different complicated problems that were standardized test material, ranging from probability to functions and trig. Not only is Donovan very understanding and flexible with scheduling lessons, but he is extremely knowledgeable over all domains (and test taking strategies!). His patience doesn't go unnoticed, as he takes the time to review key concepts, and explains in different ways to make sure the content is being understood. In addition, he made a practice packet which specifically included all types of calculus problems that I am likely to see on a Praxis 2 exam (above and beyond!). I highly recommend Donovan to anyone in need of a math tutor, especially the higher level stuff! He is great!

Deborah, 15 lessons with Donovan

Knowledgeable and able to explain mathematical concepts

My son said that once he understood the concept he was able to go through the calculations with ease. He felt confident about his ability to extend the concepts to new problems that he might encounter on his final exam. My son stated that Donovan was knowledgeable about the information, and he looks forward to working with him again.

Joanna, 4 lessons with Donovan

Knowledgeable and very patient Tutor

Lesson Summary They reviewed vectors and how to solve for the components of different problems involving speed, force, and other units of measure. In each problem that we reviewed, we made sure that she was able to find the magnitude and the direction of the vector.

Rafael, 3 lessons with Donovan

Wonderful Tutor!

Donovan is always very patient with my daughter and is really helping her to understand different math concepts in order to prepare her for her SAT and ACT.

Lisa, 15 lessons with Donovan

Donovan is amazing!

There are lots of people out there who are great at math, and Donovan is one of those people. He is also very good at explaining the math, and he is extremely patient. But the thing that puts him over the top is his willingness to work with a student's best way to learn for the best success. I highly recommend him as a math tutor!

Mary, 40 lessons with Donovan

Excellent tutor.

We met Donovan in a Starbucks and he was great. He was right on time and really helpful for my daughter. She said he explained things well and showed her how to complete math problems more easily and more quickly. He was very nice and very focused. I'm very glad we connected with him.

Elana, 1 lesson with Donovan

Great tutor, reliable and patient!

My daughter gushed, "Mr. Donovan made it easier to understand. I can't wait to take my test!" Apparently he made the content clearer. She seems more confident in approaching the material and the Algebra class in general. Update: She scored a one hundred percent on the most recent test! Thanks Donovan!

Erica, 21 lessons with Donovan
Contact Donovan

Response time: 30 minutes

$80/hour

Donovan H.

$80/hour

  • No subscriptions or upfront payments

  • Only pay for the time you need

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

Contact Donovan

Response time: 30 minutes