UCAT and Personal Statement prep, Medicine Interviews, MMI & Panel; Currently a Final Year Medical Student at Manchester; Top 10% applicant; UCAT 2900

Find out more about Hamza

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

  I became interested in medicine during secondary school, where I was fascinated by how science could directly impact lives. My interest in tutoring began not long after, when I started helping classmates with GCSE revision. I found that I not only enjoyed explaining concepts but also loved seeing others gain confidence in subjects they once struggled with. Since then, tutoring has become a rewarding part of my academic journey.

• 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 Biology, Chemistry, and UCAT preparation. In Biology, I enjoy topics like human physiology and cell biology - areas where I can draw connections to my medical studies. In Chemistry, I particularly enjoy organic chemistry because it's like solving a puzzle. As for UCAT, I enjoy teaching Decision Making and Situational Judgement, where logic and ethical reasoning really come into play. Abstract Reasoning used to be my least favourite, but it's no longer part of the test - and I don't miss it!

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

  Yes - my A-level Biology teacher was someone who made science exciting, accessible, and human. Her enthusiasm and clarity in teaching complex topics made me realise how impactful a great teacher can be, and it's something I try to emulate in my own tutoring.

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

  A good tutor needs to be patient, adaptable, and genuinely invested in their student's success. It's also important to listen closely, explain things in different ways, and recognise that every student learns differently. A good tutor doesn't just teach - they build confidence.

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

  I remember during A-level Chemistry, I struggled with enthalpy calculations. One day, a friend explained it using a cooking analogy - and it finally clicked. That moment stuck with me and now, as a tutor, I always try to find relatable ways to explain tricky topics. Sometimes all it takes is the right comparison.

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

  In school, I sometimes felt overwhelmed by how fast-paced the content was, especially with sciences. Learning how to study efficiently, manage time, and revise actively instead of passively were all skills I had to develop - and now I try to pass them on to my students to make their learning smoother.

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

  I'm passionate about making learning feel less intimidating. Whether it's through simplifying a complex biology process or breaking down UCAT logic puzzles, I enjoy helping students find clarity and confidence. Outside of teaching, I also have a strong interest in diagnostic medicine - especially radiology and pathology - where careful thinking and analysis are key, just like in exams.

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

  What makes me a Superprof is my personalised, student-centred approach. I adapt every lesson to how you learn best, drawing from over 5 years of experience and over 1000 hours of tutoring. I bring not just subject knowledge, but empathy, encouragement, and a genuine belief that every student can improve - often beyond what they expect of themselves.