1. What is the most common thing you see in new students coming to Mathnasium for the first time?
A: Most of the time, our students have problems with the foundational concepts of math, which results in a lack of confidence when tackling more complicated problems. With a little more explanation in the basics, students gain confidence and might even begin to get excited about being able to do it.
2. If there was one thing you could tell parents before they bring their student to Mathnasium what would it be?
A: I would tell parents to expect that their child will be welcomed well and will learn in a comfortable learning environment. Not only are our tutors well-equipped to gauge the student's need and to help them in that need, but they are also genuinely friendly people.
3. What things do the most successful students have in common?
A: The most successful students come into the center with a willingness to work and to learn. A student who thinks that they know everything there is to know about math will not make as much progress compared to a student who desires to know what they are doing wrong, and what they can do better.
4. What are some of the ways you teach math to your students?
A: It depends on the student. Generally, I take out a piece of scratch paper to explain what I'm thinking about a given problem and try to use diagrams if applicable. Other times, I will take out the fractional pieces, especially when comparing the sizes of fractions.
5. What do you think is the coolest thing about Mathnasium?
A: One of my favorite things about Mathnasium is getting to know the students and seeing them become more confident about math. The students are the best part of this job, and even seeing them become friends with other students makes it feel like we are truly cultivating a community at Mathnasium. It's good to see that happening over time.
