Graduate from Cal State majoring in Mathematics, 4 year math teacher at middle school and high school level in Houston, TX public charter schools, Over 10 years experience tutoring math at all levels

Find out more about Kiana

• When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  I developed an interest in private tutoring back in high school when I would help my classmates and other students in lower grades with their math assignments. My interest in tutoring and teaching carried over into my college years when I worked in the library as a tutor. I have found great satisfaction and enjoyment in helping others truly understand the concepts they were previously struggling with.

• Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  I would say about half of my students contact me for assistance with their math courses from elementary level to collegiate level. The other half of my students are with me for test preparation including SAT, ACT, and GED tests.

• Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  I had an amazing math teacher in high school who was able to explain the concepts so well. I often think about his methods and the way he made students feel safe to ask questions and how he encouraged us to speak up in front of peers where we developed confidence to present our work on the board.

• What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  The main quality needed to be a good tutor is passion. I believe in order for a tutor to be successful he or she must be passionate about the subject and about teaching others. In addition, a good tutor must be patient and also flexible knowing that each student may require a different approach or method than what was previously tried.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  I recently received a sweet message from one of my student's parents. My favorite part of her message read, "Before you started teaching (her), she didn't like or understand math, now it is one of her favorite subjects." It is a privilege for me to be able to work with my students and for their parents to trust me with their education. This student that I mentioned gained confidence over the summer from 8th grade into 9th grade from our sessions and is now thriving in her Geometry class.

• What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or are still facing in your subject?

  I found some difficulties in the subject of math and SAT/Test Prep can be addressed using technology to our advantage. Major tests and most schools from 8th grade and up typically allow the use of a calculator or online resource: Desmos. I think this can be such a helpful tool if more students knew how to use it and if they practiced with the technology more.

• Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  My first love is math! However, I am increasingly invested and interested in helping students with test prep. I know testing can be a source of anxiety for a lot of students of all ages. My goal is to help alleviate that stress, build confidence, and truly help students get excited for the opportunity to show what they know.

• What makes you a Superprof (besides answering this interview questions :-P)?

  I have over 10 years of experience teaching in and out of the classroom. I believe that learning is universal and with my flexible schedule, quick response time, and passion for helping others, I can reach students in need all over the globe.