PrepNow Tutor - Matt A.
Matthew is dedicated to the elegance of learning and knowledge, and that drives him to share his love with others. Of math, for example, he says, “It is beautiful because it allows us to process the physical world—from mere elemental logic, we can suss out the mysteries of the universe.” Matthew learned the intricacies of such logic at Texas Tech University, from which he holds a BS in mathematics, with a minor in physics. In 2019, he began tutoring students of all ages. Specifically, he has tutored all elementary math and sciences and the following high-school and college-level areas: algebra; trigonometry; pre-calculus; calculus 1, 2, and 3; and statistics. In addition, he has prior test preparation tutoring experience: AP calculus, both AB and BC; AP statistics; AP physics; SAT math; ACT math and science sections; GED math; GRE math; Air Force officers qualifying test for math; and Texas State Troopers entrance exam. Indeed, Matthew’s experience is broad and varied.
Matthew’s approach to tutoring is governed by a practical approach to instruction. He believes that helping students understand the process of learning is as helpful as teaching them only what they need to know to solve the problems in front of them. Therefore, he often introduces students to provocative, concrete examples and “thought puzzles” to which their studies can be applied. He then asks students questions about how they might logically approach such puzzles and why. He says, “This measured tactic gives students a ‘toolbox’ of methodologies to approach problem-solving in any complex situation where a reasoned and logical approach is required.” Armed with such a toolbox, students can confidently tackle current and future academic subjects.
Matthew also takes a rather “hands-on” approach to his hobbies. First, he plays guitar, both acoustic and electric, and was in a Grateful Dead cover band in college. Second, he is also an avid woodworker. The bulk of his work so far has been in restoring pieces, such as dressers, tables, and bed frames, but he has also started to create his own work. Recently, for instance, he built a screen door for his parents’ patio, and he made cutting boards as gifts for family and friends. Finally, Matthew likes to use his hands to work dough—he is currently trying to perfect a sourdough recipe.
