Alex
Certified Tutor
Undergraduate Degree: University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Undergraduate Degree: University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
Graduate Degree: University of Southern California - Masters in Business Administration, Finance
Graduate Degree: University of Southern California - Masters in Business Administration, Real Estate
ACT English: 31
ACT Math: 35
SAT Composite (1600 scale): 1400
SAT Math: 720
GMAT: 770
snowboarding, running with my dog, checking out concerts, perusing historical fiction, writing comedic scripts
GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment
GMAT Integrated Reasoning
GMAT Quantitative
GMAT Verbal
GRE 5-Week Prep Class Prep
LSAT 10-Week Prep Class
LSAT 5-Week Prep Class Prep
What is your teaching philosophy?
Early on in my life, I observed that an instructor who teaches (to) students makes little impact, as these lessons are simply foreign words and concepts that seem to have little relevance to the student. And so, ever since high school, I've been enthralled by the Socratic method. My sessions with students are much more like a conversation -- there are questions posited, incorrect statements (purposely made), suggestions given, and compliments doled out for a job well done. I love to interact with my students and help propel them toward the right methodology of the GMAT exam. This can never be done by pure instruction, but rather by experimentation and critical thinking.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
Everyone likes a little gab, right? It's important to spend a few minutes chatting about our backgrounds, families, etc., so we can understand just what drives the other person to succeed. Then, I usually like to administer an informal diagnostic to better sense areas of weakness and strength in the subject.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
More important than the answer to any question is the road that led you to that answer. I love to ask provocative questions of my students, and push them to do the same to me. Only by using critical thinking to guide one toward better questions can independent learning really be achieved.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
Ultimately, motivation must come from within. And that's precisely why students must see the fruits of their labors frequently and deeply. I do my best to provide even lagging students with consistent cause for celebration, showing them their correct hypotheses and answers and congratulating them on their frequent jobs well done.