M.Phil Sociology Tutor for Cambridge A Level, AS Level and IGCSE Students

Find out more about Akanksha

• Tell us more about your subject. How did you develop an interest in this field?

  I've always been fascinated by understanding why societies work the way they do and how culture, education, family, media, and inequality shape our everyday lives. Sociology encourages students to question assumptions, think critically, and appreciate different perspectives. My interest grew during my own studies when I realised that sociology isn't just an academic subject—it's a way of understanding the world around us. That passion naturally led me to teaching, where I enjoy helping students connect theory with real-life examples.

• What or who is the motivation behind you choosing to teach & why?

  My biggest motivation is seeing students grow in confidence. Many students begin sociology feeling overwhelmed by the theories and essay-writing, but with the right guidance, they discover that they are capable of analysing complex ideas and expressing them clearly. Watching that transformation is incredibly rewarding. I also believe that good teachers can make a lasting difference by helping students develop skills that go far beyond examinations, such as critical thinking, communication, and independent learning.

• How does your work help society?

  Education empowers people to think independently and make informed decisions. Through teaching sociology, I encourage students to understand different viewpoints, question stereotypes, and develop empathy for others. These qualities help create thoughtful, responsible individuals who can contribute positively to their communities. My goal is not only to help students achieve excellent grades but also to inspire curiosity about the society they live in.

• If you had to think of a role model for your work, who do you think of & why?

  One of the people I admire most is Paulo Freire. His belief that education should encourage students to think critically rather than simply memorise information strongly influences my teaching approach. I aim to create lessons where students actively engage with ideas, ask questions, and develop their own well-supported arguments instead of learning facts by rote.

• Tell us about your hobbies outside teaching.

  Outside teaching, I enjoy reading about current social issues, psychology, and world affairs to keep my lessons relevant and engaging. I also enjoy writing educational resources, exploring documentaries, and spending time with family and friends. I believe that continuously learning helps me become a better teacher and keeps my classroom discussions fresh and interesting.

• Do you have an anecdote to tell us about your student or professional life?

  One experience that stands out involved a student who initially believed sociology was "too difficult" and struggled to structure essay answers. We worked together on breaking down questions, improving evaluation skills, and practising exam techniques step by step. Over time, the student's confidence grew significantly, and they achieved results far beyond what they had expected at the beginning of the course. Moments like these remind me why I love teaching—success isn't just about marks, but about helping students realise their own potential.