What might you do in a typical first session with a student?

I first assess the student's needs, then work to convey understanding of the material, and finish by practicing what we've gone over and discussing strategies for exams/homework in the future.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I usually have students make study guides while I teach, and show the students how I condense information from lectures and textbooks into notes.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I always keep the focus of a session positive and goal-oriented, using short-term achievement of small goals as a lead-in to long-term achievement of larger goals.

How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?

I love drawing parallels to entertaining applications. My favorite examples of this are using the TV show "Breaking Bad" to teach organic chemistry or "The Walking Dead" to teach about infectious disease.

What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?

I find that short, timed practice tests are a good gauge of understanding.

What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?

I like to show students that Google can answer nearly all their questions without my help, but I also have a number of textbooks and self-written practice problems at my disposal.