PrepNow Tutor - Joycelin F.
A uniquely compassionate tutor, Joycelin’s careful attention to planning and detail ensures thoughtful consideration in everything she does. She holds two degrees from Howard University: a BS in physics and a BA in English with a concentration in creative writing and a minor in Spanish. She also has an MS from Johns Hopkins university, in educational studies/secondary education—with a concentration in special education and mathematics. Joycelin is certified to teach 7-12 mathematics and K-12 special education. Since graduating, she has worked as a teacher, tutor, and volleyball coach. Joycelin has taught all levels of math and currently teaches high-level high school math courses, including AP Calculus, as well as test prep.
“I started teaching because I've always enjoyed helping others understand complex concepts and achieve their academic goals,” Joycelin says, adding that she’s also been fueled by her own passion for learning and a desire to share that privilege with others. “Along the way, I've been fascinated by understanding the intricacies of how people learn best and how the education system operates. My hope is to contribute to improving education in the U.S. by applying these insights and helping students navigate their educational journeys effectively.”
Joycelin’s favorite part about tutoring is witnessing the "aha" moment when a student grasps a difficult concept or achieves a breakthrough in their learning. “It's incredibly rewarding to be part of someone's journey toward understanding and success,” she says. “Ultimately, I want to help alleviate some of the challenges in learning so that students can still experience the joy and fulfillment that comes with mastering new concepts.”
Joycelin’s tutoring style is student-centered, focusing on fostering a solid conceptual understanding that enables students to progress independently. “I prioritize guiding students to explore and build upon foundational knowledge, which forms the bedrock for sustainable learning and growth beyond my direct assistance,” she explains. “I emphasize not only procedural skills but also diverse methods of thinking, encouraging a holistic approach to problem-solving.”
Central to her teaching philosophy is the belief that intrinsic motivation fuels the most effective learning. As such, Joycelin strives to cultivate an environment where students feel empowered to engage with the material, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. “I value the importance of productive struggle, understanding that meaningful learning often arises from grappling with challenging concepts in a supportive and encouraging space.” Joycelin also encourages students to voice their questions, ideas, and perspectives freely, promoting a collaborative learning environment.
As a student, Joycelin was highly involved and participated in numerous activities, such as soccer, volleyball, mock trials, basketball, spoken word competitions, musical theater, study abroad, health peer education and programming, and more. She was a Capstone Scholar and graduated magna cum laude from Howard University and summa cum laude from Johns Hopkins University.
Joycelin has a wide variety of interests: “Everything art and music, everything that takes me outside and moving.” She loves reading, writing, cooking, sewing, and all aspects of plants and animals. She has recently been learning ASL.
When asked to share a fun fact, Joycelin says, “I used to not be able to whistle. Then, in middle school, I got so frustrated because my brother could whistle and would tease me, so somehow I taught myself.”
