Teaching Philosophy

"Any intelligent fool can invent further complications, but it takes a genius to retain, or recapture, simplicity."  E.F. Schumacher

While there is an existing misconception that only “left-brained” individuals can be good at math and science, the best teachers disregard this illusion and know that upon “recapturing the simplicity” of complex theory, any student can successfully learn math and science.  As a scientist and graduate student, I most appreciate teachers who can dissolve complex theories into decipherable pieces so that the theory is seemingly simple.  This is one of my main objectives as a teacher: to facilitate the breakdown of complex theories into straightforward pieces and to guide my students through each part in order to give them the skill to apply the theory to additional situations. 

“If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer.  Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away.”  Henry David Thoreau

As a teacher I believe that I must enter the classroom or teaching situation with clear objectives and beliefs, including (1) the true belief that each of my students is gifted in their own capacity, (2) the belief that all of my students are capable of learning the material, (3) the belief that my enthusiasm, purpose and organization will facilitate learning, and (4) the belief that challenging my students is the next best tool in teaching to encouragement and patience. 

“I always entertain great hopes.” Robert Frost

I have great hopes that my students are engaged in and can learn the material which I strive to present them with excitement, organization, and reason.  I have great hopes that my students challenge me through questions and ideas, just as I challenge them.  I have great hopes that we, student and teacher, can connect through a sense of humor, through flexibility in learning and as individuals with a common goal.

Bio

A Washington native, Kelsey is a dedicated, determined and insightful tutor and chemistry geek. After graduating from the University of Puget Sound Summa Cum Laude with a BS in Chemistry, Kelsey dove back into the lab in pursuit of her Ph.D. Along with her work studying cytochrome P450 enzymes and antioxidants in Medicinal Chemistry at the UW School of Pharmacy, Kelsey makes time to practice her first love, teaching.  Whether tutoring or teaching, Kelsey thrives on encouraging her students to be great learners.  Kelsey strongly upholds the values of a liberal arts education and strives to “retain or recapture the simplicity” of complex scientific concepts with her students. It is exactly this verve, support and pedagogy that Kelsey brings to her students at University Tutoring. When not in the lab or teaching organic chemistry, Kelsey designs jewelry and enjoys the beauties of Washington through running, softball, soccer, hiking and golf. Witty, fun and a natural teacher, Kelsey is a great addition to our team of tutors.  

Subjects: Math, Chemistry, Biochem, Accounting, Study Skills, Test Prep (PSAT/PLAN/SAT/ACT/ACT Explore/MAT/ISEE) (6-Adult)

Resumé

Coming soon!