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

I'd start off by asking what the student is interested in, in both subject and extracurricular. Then, I'd ask what he/she wants to improve on and give a simple diagnostic test about that subject.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

The main thing I'd teach is the ability to take apart a problem, no matter how complicated, and use previous knowledge to solve the sub-problems.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I'd tell them to think about the ultimate goal. Not just getting that A on a test, but maybe getting into that dream college. Also, keeping a calm mind is a way to prevent frustration.

If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?

I'd make a sample question and see how the student solves it. Then, I'd compare my answer key to how they solved. Then, I'd ask the student to make the comparison. Comparing 2 different ways of solving a problem is a great way to understand that problem.

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

I'd show a really cool video that shows how that subject can be used in real life. I'd also give an impossibly hard problem, no joke. Even if the student can't do the problem off the bat, we would work towards that goal, which can really engage the student.

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

I'd tell the student to make a problem for me to solve and then tell them to double check my work. I'd make a mistake on purpose. If the student catches my mistake, then the student understands the material!

How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?

Start off with easier problems, and then build up to harder problems.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I'd ask what the student wants to improve on, and then give a diagnostic test that tests what they want to improve on.

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

Using paper/pencil and videos.

What is your teaching philosophy?

I have a "tough love" philosophy. I want to push and guide my students to the potential I see in them.

How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?

First, I start off with an example problem. If the student is confused, I'd take it a step back and focus on the theory behind the problem with either more example problems or drawings.

How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?

I'd start off with readings that are 2-3 grades lower than what they are struggling with. Then, I ask questions about the passage. Once the student understands the process of coming up with the answer, we would go back to the original grade level and try again.