Engineering PhD student at Imperial College teaches MATH | CHEMISTRY | PHYSICS for ALL LEVELS of study (GCSE, A level, university level) | 50+ students | 3 years of experience

Find out more about Aynur

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

  From an early age, I was captivated by STEM subjects. As a child, I eagerly explored the world through a children's microscope, examining plants, hair, and even food. In high school, I chose the STEM profile, taking advanced courses in chemistry, physics, and math. I was the only girl who opted for a written A-level exam in physics, which fuelled my passion for tutoring. Now, as a Chemical Engineering PhD candidate at Imperial College London, I engage in daily scientific pursuits without a single ounce of regret. STEM has been my lifelong love, and I'm determined to inspire others on their intellectual journeys.

• 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 Math, Physics and Chemistry related subjects. I'm a huge fan of anything STEM related and can teach any level of STEM subjects, including university-level STEM.

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

  I'll never forget my middle school physics teacher. He was something else! Imagine watching him in action, teaching physics like it was his own personal full-body workout. One day, he had a brilliant idea to demonstrate the different forms of energy. He climbed up onto his teacher's desk, of all places (!), and proclaimed, "Behold! I have potential energy!" Then, with a burst of excitement, he leaped from the desk to the floor, exclaiming, "Did you see that? I had kinetic energy while I was jumping!" His infectious smile always accompanied his physics lessons, making it clear that he genuinely loved what he did.

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

  When it comes to tutoring, three things are essential: trust, patience, and credibility. Trust is the foundation because asking for help can be scary, and students need to feel confident in their tutor's ability to fill in the gaps. Patience is key too, creating a welcoming environment where students can freely ask questions until everything clicks. And of course, credibility is a must. Tutors must be prepared, and honest, and deliver accurate information to ensure students get the right guidance.

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

  I'll never forget the first-time math became truly challenging for me, back in university. The complexity skyrocketed compared to what I was used to in school, leaving me bewildered. Thankfully, my friends came to the rescue. We gathered regularly, each grasping a fragment of the puzzle, and together, we conquered it all. It was then that I realized something profound: math is comprehensible to everyone. Even at advanced levels, it's within reach for anyone when explained well. Once you grasp its logic, you gain the power to solve all kinds of problems independently. The beauty of the natural sciences lies in their inherent logic, and that's precisely why I find them so fascinating!

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

  Natural sciences can certainly be complex, and as a student, it's easy to lose the way and require assistance. But here's the silver lining: science is inherently logical. The key lies in effective explanations. When topics are taught well, everything falls into place.

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

  Science is my ultimate passion-it's all about teaching, studying, and diving into research. Back in my undergrad days, I poured my heart into tutoring high schoolers, and now, as a PhD candidate, I keep guiding undergrad students on their academic adventures. You know what lights me up? It's when a student, who initially felt lost in a subject, suddenly blossoms into a confident learner. Witnessing that magical "aha" moment, when they realize that math, physics, or chemistry isn't some scary monster, is pure joy. When concepts are explained just right, everything falls into place, and it's like a whole new world of clarity opens. That's the kind of magic that keeps me going as a teacher.

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

  Being a Superprof is all about having a knack for patience and great communication skills to explain things in a way that clicks. Of course, it's not just about being a natural talent. Experience and knowing your subject inside out are just as crucial. I've been tutoring students for the past six years, and I've never had a single complaint from students or parents. In fact, I've helped dozens of students improve their grades along the way. So, it's a mix of natural teaching abilities and the wisdom gained from years of experience that makes me a Superprof!