Nadine: Fairfield tutor

Certified Tutor

I've always had a deep-seated passion for education and a desire to empower others to reach their full potential. Witnessing the joy and accomplishment on a student's face when they finally grasp a difficult concept is incredibly rewarding. Tutoring allows me to share my knowledge and enthusiasm for learning while making a positive impact on the lives of young people.
Throughout my academic career, I've had the opportunity to work with students of all ages and backgrounds. From volunteering at my local library to serving as a teaching assistant during my master's program to teaching high school students in a summer academic enrichment program, I've gained valuable experience in creating engaging and effective learning environments. I've learned the importance of tailoring my approach to each student's individual needs and strengths, and I'm committed to fostering a supportive and encouraging atmosphere.
I received my bachelor's degree in Education from Colgate University. Then, I pursued a master's degree in Neurobiology and Physiology from the University of Connecticut. After working for several years as a research assistant at MIT, I decided to return to graduate school to earn my Ph.D. In 2021, I earned a Ph.D. in Biology and Chemical Sciences with a specialization in Neuroscience from Scripp Research Institute. Currently, I am working as a biomedical scientist in biotech. My education and professional background have equipped me with a solid foundation in pedagogy and a deep understanding of various subjects.
I offer tutoring services in Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Physiology, Neuroscience and Neurobiology. My favorite subjects to tutor include Biology, Molecular Biology, and Intro to Neuroscience. I find these subjects particularly enjoyable to tutor because I can draw from my professional experience as a neuroscientist to provide students with real life applications of the subject matter. I believe my purpose goes beyond tutoring the specific course. My ultimate goal is to help students develop critical thinking skills as well as a lifelong love of learning regardless of the subject.
My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every student has the capacity to learn and succeed. I strive to create a positive and inclusive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and taking risks. My tutoring style is patient, supportive, and interactive. I believe that active engagement and practice are essential for effective learning. For instance, I like to incorporate practice questions during the sessions, and I encourage students to explain the logic behind their answers. This approach allows me to determine their mastery of the material and the limits of their knowledge. Since space repetition has been proven as an effective learning technique, I often assign practice problems as well as providing videos and reading to supplement the tutoring sessions.
Outside of academia, I am passionate about dancing, indoor gardening, kayaking, and helping my community as a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. My interests help me maintain a well-rounded perspective and bring a unique energy to my tutoring sessions. I believe that connecting with students on a personal level can make learning more enjoyable and meaningful.