I have 8+ years of experience tutoring mathematics (and other STEM). I provide video + transcript + detailed typeset notes after every session. I have a PhD in machine learning for robotics at UIUC

Find out more about Dr․ Joshua

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

  From a young age, I developed a fascination with the world of invention and robotics. My passion for engineering and mathematics grew through my active participation in LEGO Mindstorms robotics competitions and BEST Robotics during my formative years. However, it was in college that I truly discovered my interest in tutoring. I found immense joy in helping others understand complex concepts and witnessing the "aha" moments when they grasped new ideas. This drove me to explore teaching as a means of sharing my knowledge and love for mathematics and engineering.

• 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 am deeply passionate about teaching mathematics and engineering. I see mathematics as a powerful toolbox and a language that can help us understand life and the world around us. One of my favorite topics to discuss with students is the beauty of mathematics and how it connects various branches of science and engineering. I love to delve into good engineering practices, emphasizing the importance of creativity and craftsmanship in these fields.

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

  Yes, there was a teacher who profoundly inspired me on my educational journey. They were not only knowledgeable but also had a unique ability to adapt their teaching style to different students' needs and backgrounds. Their patience and passion for the subject were contagious, making the learning process engaging and enjoyable. This teacher's influence instilled in me the belief that good tutors should be flexible and empathetic, understanding and accommodating the individual learning styles of their students.

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

  Being a good tutor goes beyond possessing subject expertise. To effectively impart knowledge, a tutor must have the ability to adapt to their students' needs, background, and ways of thinking, just as my role model did for me. Patience, empathy, and strong communication skills are essential in guiding students through challenging concepts and ensuring they grasp the material fully. Additionally, a passion for teaching and a genuine desire to see students succeed are crucial elements that make a good tutor stand out.

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

  Certainly! One anecdote that stands out to me is when I was exploring the Taylor series for the exponential function during my studies. It was suggested that I insert an imaginary number into the series, and to my surprise, I stumbled upon Euler's formula. This unexpected discovery deeply connected trigonometry, the exponential function, and complex numbers for me, revealing the inherent beauty and interconnectedness of mathematics. It was an eye-opening experience that highlighted the elegance of the subject and solidified my love for mathematics and its applications.

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

  As a tutor and enthusiast in machine learning for autonomous systems, one of the most significant challenges I encounter is keeping up with the rapid pace of new research in the field. The landscape of machine learning is constantly evolving, with new algorithms, techniques, and applications being developed regularly. Staying up-to-date with the latest advancements requires continuous effort and dedication.

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

  My passion lies in teaching, mathematics, and engineering. I find immense fulfillment in sharing my knowledge and expertise with eager learners, seeing them grow and succeed in their academic pursuits. Witnessing the moment when a student grasps a complex concept and gains confidence in their abilities is incredibly rewarding. Beyond teaching, I am particularly enthusiastic about exploring the creative aspects of mathematics and engineering, emphasizing the importance of craftsmanship in problem-solving and innovation.

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

  As a Superprof, I believe my gift for imparting knowledge, combined with my passion for teaching, sets me apart. I genuinely care about the progress and success of my students, and I am dedicated to finding unique and personalized approaches to help them grasp challenging concepts. My experience as a PhD researcher and as a tutor for more than 10 years has given me practical insights into the subject matter, enabling me to relate theoretical concepts to real-world applications effectively. Above all, I strongly believe in the value of knowledge and the preciousness of understanding truth, which drives me to be an enthusiastic and committed Superprof tutor.