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Learn more about Shathisa

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

  My interest in law developed gradually as I was growing up. I was always intrigued by crime-related content, which initially sparked a fascination with criminal law. I found the idea of uncovering the truth and the role of legal professionals in ensuring justice really compelling. Over time, that interest shifted towards real estate law, particularly because of its civil nature and the structured, procedural aspects involved. I enjoy the fact that it can be both detailed and repetitive-it challenges me to stay organised and think methodically.
  
  In contrast, my interest in private tutoring, specifically in mathematics, has been lifelong. Maths has always come easily to me-it was my strongest subject at school, and I passed both my O Levels and A Levels with top marks. I've always enjoyed how maths is straightforward, logical, and rooted in clear solutions. That clarity and sense of problem-solving really appeals to me.
  
  While law and maths might seem worlds apart, I enjoy both for different reasons. Law pushes me to think critically, research thoroughly, and communicate complex ideas in simple terms, while maths allows me to apply logic and find direct solutions. I use both skillsets daily, and tutoring maths has become a way for me to share my passion, help others build confidence, and encourage them to see the subject as approachable and rewarding.

• 2) 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 teach mathematics, mainly to O Level and A Level students. During my own O Levels, I genuinely enjoyed all aspects of maths, but as I progressed into A Levels, I developed a deeper appreciation for pure mathematics in particular. Topics like differentiation, integration, and trigonometry have always fascinated me-they challenge your thinking while offering structured, logical solutions, which I find really satisfying to work through, especially with students who are just beginning to grasp those concepts.
  
  While I did well overall, I initially found mechanics in maths quite challenging, even though I was doing similar content in physics. It wasn't until I found the right tutor that mechanics started to make sense and even became enjoyable. That experience really shaped how I tutor today-just as my tutor helped me connect with the subject on a deeper level, I strive to do the same for my students. My goal is not only to help them understand the material but also to spark a lasting interest in it, just like what happened with me.
  
  I bring a lot of enthusiasm into my sessions, especially when discussing pure maths topics. I know how intense and important the exams can be, so I always try to guide my students through both the easy and difficult parts with patience and encouragement. If I had to pick a topic I liked a little less, it would be complex numbers-while they're important, they didn't come as naturally to me as other areas did.
  
  What I love most about tutoring is getting to revisit my favourite subject over and over again, and seeing my students work hard toward their goals reminds me of my own journey. I see my younger self in many of them, and that connection really motivates me to teach with passion and give them the support they need to succeed.

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

  Yes, I've had several role models throughout my academic journey-more than just one teacher inspired me. I've always deeply respected all my teachers, but my maths teachers, in particular, have had a lasting impact on me. Whether it was because of my genuine love for the subject or the fact that I had the most dedicated and engaging teachers, maths was always a subject I excelled in.
  
  One of my greatest inspirations was my school maths teacher, who would even use our free periods to teach us more. I never minded, of course-I genuinely enjoyed every minute of it. I remember once struggling with a topic, and after some determined practice, I went to see him in his office to let him know I had finally understood it. He asked me to explain it to him, but I struggled to do so clearly. That's when he pointed to a quote by Einstein hanging above his desk: "If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." That quote stuck with me, and it has become my personal teaching motto. As a tutor now, I always aim to simplify concepts for my students in a way that proves I've understood them deeply myself. If I can't explain something simply, I know I need to go back and learn it better.
  
  Another role model was my private tutor who helped me with mechanics. Mechanics in maths was something I initially found difficult, despite covering similar topics in physics. But this tutor made everything easier and more enjoyable by using visuals and real-life examples. That's a technique I've adopted in my own tutoring style-connecting complex ideas to relatable, everyday situations so students find the content less intimidating and more understandable.
  
  My physics tutor during A Levels was also a major influence. I didn't do as well as I hoped during my AS level, but his teaching completely transformed my approach. He was strict, gave lots of homework, and explained everything in a way that just clicked. He taught me the value of discipline and persistence-lessons I carry with me today. Even if a subject isn't naturally enjoyable at first, I've learnt to start anyway, because once I get into it, understanding and interest will follow.
  
  Interestingly, I never had one-on-one tutoring-I learnt everything in group classes, both at school and in private settings. But I was always a hardworking and diligent student, motivated by my teachers and peers. Now as a tutor, I bring together all the methods that worked for me: a mix of clear explanations, visual learning, relatable examples, and most importantly, patience and passion. I want to inspire my students the same way I was once inspired.

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

  I believe that being a good tutor goes far beyond simply knowing the subject matter-it's about how you connect with your students and help them grow. A strong foundation in the subject is essential, of course, but what truly makes a tutor effective is their ability to explain complex concepts in a clear, relatable, and engaging way.
  
  One of the most important qualities is patience. Every student learns differently and at their own pace. As a tutor, you need to create a space where students feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes-that's how real learning happens. I've experienced this myself, both as a student and as a tutor. I remember the time when I thought I had understood a topic, but struggled to explain it. My teacher pointed to a quote by Einstein: "If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." That moment changed the way I viewed teaching and learning. Now, I use that quote as a motto in my own tutoring. It reminds me that clarity and true understanding go hand-in-hand, and it's my responsibility to reach that level before expecting my students to do the same.
  
  Another crucial quality is adaptability. Not every explanation works for every student. That's why I use different teaching techniques-whether it's visual aids, real-life examples, or breaking problems down into smaller, manageable steps. For instance, when I struggled with mechanics in maths, it was a tutor who used illustrations and relatable scenarios to make the topic click. I now do the same for my students, especially those who struggle with abstract concepts. If one method doesn't work, I'm always ready to try another until they understand.
  
  A good tutor must also be motivational and empathetic. I see my own younger self in many of my students-eager but sometimes overwhelmed. Because I know what it's like to struggle and push through, I make it a point to be supportive and encouraging. I don't just focus on getting the right answers; I help my students develop confidence in themselves. That motivation can be just as powerful as the lesson itself.
  
  Additionally, discipline and consistency are key. One of my A Level physics tutors instilled in me the importance of structure-giving consistent homework, reviewing answers thoroughly, and expecting commitment. He taught me that even if you don't like a subject at first, starting is the hardest part. Once you start, you can begin to enjoy and understand it. I've carried that lesson into my tutoring by setting high expectations and helping students build good study habits.
  
  Lastly, a good tutor must have a genuine passion for teaching. I truly love maths, especially topics like differentiation, integration, and trigonometry. That passion shines through when I teach, and I've found that when a tutor is enthusiastic, students are more likely to engage and develop a positive attitude toward learning.
  
  In short, a good tutor is patient, adaptable, empathetic, disciplined, and passionate. It's about inspiring your students, just as I was once inspired, and helping them unlock their potential through consistent support and genuine care.

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

  One moment that has stayed with me to this day happened back in school during my A Levels. We were learning a particularly tricky topic in pure maths-differentiation involving trigonometric functions-and while I had always been strong in maths, this topic felt overwhelming at first. I remember spending hours practicing on my own, thinking I had finally grasped it. So, I confidently walked into my teacher's office and told him, "I understand it now."
  
  He smiled and said, "Alright, then explain it to me."
  
  I tried… and failed. I stumbled through my words, confused myself, and couldn't clearly explain what I thought I had learned. That's when he pointed to a framed quote above his desk. It was by Einstein: "If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." That moment really humbled me and changed the way I approached both learning and teaching. It made me realise that understanding goes beyond just solving problems-you need to be able to articulate the 'why' and 'how' behind your answers.
  
  Since then, that quote has become my teaching motto. As a tutor, I always remind myself that if I can't explain something clearly and simply, I need to go back and understand it better myself. It's also a lesson I try to pass on to my students. I encourage them to teach me what they've learned during our sessions-it boosts their confidence and helps cement their understanding.
  
  That one moment taught me not just about differentiation, but about what it truly means to understand something-and how important it is, as a tutor, to always keep learning alongside your students.

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

  Although maths has always been my strongest subject and something I genuinely enjoy, that doesn't mean I haven't faced challenges. During my A Levels, I struggled with the mechanics section of pure maths. Despite having a background in physics, mechanics in maths felt completely different and more abstract. It took a lot of effort-and the guidance of a great tutor who used clear visuals and real-life examples-for me to finally connect with the topic and begin to enjoy it. That experience really showed me the value of the right teaching method and how much of a difference it can make.
  
  Even now, as a tutor, I still face some challenges. One of them is that I tend to avoid teaching A Level maths as often as I could, mainly because I don't get to practice it as regularly anymore. As a result, I sometimes feel less confident teaching the more advanced material unless I've had time to refresh myself properly. Also, one specific area I've never particularly enjoyed is complex numbers-it just never clicked with me in the way other topics like differentiation or trigonometry did.
  
  That said, I'm always working on improving and pushing myself to stay sharp in all areas of the subject. Even if I shy away from certain topics occasionally, I do so with the awareness that it's something I need to revisit and strengthen-not only for myself, but also to give my students the best possible support.

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

  My passion has always been rooted in maths. From a young age, it's been the one subject that came naturally to me and gave me a real sense of satisfaction-there's something incredibly fulfilling about solving a problem and knowing the answer is right. I love the clarity and structure of maths; it's logical, consistent, and rewards practice and effort. Even during my O Levels and A Levels, I found myself genuinely enjoying the time I spent working on questions, especially in areas like differentiation, integration, and trigonometry. Those topics still excite me to this day.
  
  That said, my passion doesn't stop at just learning maths-it extends to sharing it with others. I've come to realise that teaching is something I truly enjoy, particularly when I see that "lightbulb moment" in a student who finally understands a concept they've been struggling with. There's a deep satisfaction in helping someone go from feeling confused or frustrated to feeling confident and capable. It's especially rewarding because I know how intense O Level and A Level exams can be, and I understand what it takes to overcome those hurdles.
  
  So, my passion lies in both the subject itself and in teaching it to others. I love talking about maths, practicing it, and finding new ways to make it more engaging for my students. It's more than just a job or a skill-it's something that motivates me and gives me a sense of purpose.

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

  What makes me a Superprof is the combination of experience, confidence, and a genuine passion for both my subject and my students' success. I've been tutoring since 2017, right after completing my A Levels, and over the years, I've worked with a wide range of students in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry-helping them not only improve their grades but also build confidence in subjects they once found difficult.
  
  I bring to the table strong communication skills, which allow me to connect with students and parents alike. Whether it's explaining a complex concept in simple terms or keeping parents updated with detailed progress reports, I make sure everyone involved feels supported and informed. I also take pride in my planning and time management-each lesson is tailored to meet the student's unique needs, ensuring no time is wasted and every session is purposeful.
  
  One of my key strengths is the ability to research and create high-quality learning resources. I don't believe in one-size-fits-all teaching. Every student learns differently, so I adapt my approach accordingly-whether that means using visuals, real-life examples, or exam-based practice questions. I'm always prepared, and I'm always striving to do better.
  
  Confidence is another trait that sets me apart. I know my subject inside-out, especially maths, and I teach it with passion. Students often pick up on that energy, which makes our sessions more engaging and enjoyable. I also understand the importance of client service-I'm committed to helping my students reach their full potential and exceed their academic goals.
  
  All in all, being a Superprof is not just about knowing the subject-it's about delivering it with care, clarity, and commitment. I've been doing that since 2017, and I bring that same energy and dedication to every single student I work with.