312 Highland Ave.
Somerville, MA 02144
617-335-5552
Somerville, MA 02144
617-335-5552
What are your credentials?
My official credentials: I have a degree from MIT in Physics (1992) and a Master's in Mathematics from Boston
College (1996). I have also completed two levels of tutoring certification by the College Reading and Learning Association.
What most makes me a skilled tutor is experience. I have been a tutor since 1993, with over 15,000 hours of practice helping over a thousand students to learn a wide variety of subjects at many levels. Feedback on my tutoring is overwhelmingly positive, and a large fraction of my business comes from word of mouth referrals. I am always seeking to learn more and better ways to teach and prepare my students. See further information on my business philosophy and history.
I am also a native English speaker.
I have never hired a tutor before. How does this work?
However it needs to -- every student is different, and I adapt my methods to each person. Some people need
a lecture on a topic, others need their textbook explained or interpreted. Some need drill, or to see examples
worked out, or curiosity satisfied, or any combination of these. During the first hour my goal is typically to
figure out works for you, what you want and need and how to give it to you.
Together we will find the style that suits you. I start by asking questions about what you already know and what you want to learn. I have many different methods of explanation and we can try different approaches until we know what works best for you. I can lecture, or work examples, or make up questions for you, answer any nagging questions and fill in missing details -- whatever you need.
When are you available to tutor?
Please note that I am in the office only during times in which I have appointments scheduled; the office
is often closed for parts of the day as I come and go between appointments. My schedule varies somewhat, but
generally I book appointments 9 AM to 6 PM weekdays, and noon to 5 PM Sundays.
Many people set up a regular weekly schedule for the semester or school year. After school hours tend to be popular, and scheduling gets harder for hours in October, December, March, and May, due to exams. Please plan ahead for finals to ensure that times will be available for you.
Where do we meet?
I have an office at 312 Highland Avenue in Somerville. It is a ten minute walk from Davis Square or Porter
Square, both on the Red Line. I have whiteboards, chemistry model kits, visual learning tools, and reference books
available in my office. I no longer make house calls.
How much does it cost?
See my rates page.
Do you work with groups, and is there a
discount?
I usually work with single students, but my office can accommodate small groups of adults. See my rates page for pricing.
Please note that the student who makes the appointment is responsible for ensuring that I am paid at least my regular hourly rate, even if no one shows up.
Cancellations are free with 24 hours of notice.
My policy is one free late cancellation or no-show; after that you must still pay me for my time.
How much time will I need?
That will vary from student to student. The more organized you are coming in the door, the more you will
get out of each session. Everyone learns at their own pace, so there's no way to predict until after the first
session or two how much tutoring will get you the knowledge that you want.
Will you help me with my homework and take home exams?
I will not help you with take home exams. The point of an exam is to find out how much
you know. I also will not do your homework for you. The point of homework is for you to
learn the material. I will work through homework problems with you, but only if I feel that you are learning how to do it
yourself in the process. You will need to take your exams yourself, and I will help prepare you.
I'm not in a class right now. Can you teach me a
subject?
Absolutely. I can lecture, assign homework, even give exams. This will not count towards college credit or graduation. I can only offer you the knowledge. However, your school may offer official placement exams that will let you get credit for classes by proving that you know the material. Check with your school to see whether this is possible.
I have other questions. How do I contact
you?
Telephone or text message is the fastest way; my number is (617)-335-5552. I also check my email at least daily at robert.the.tutor@gmail.com. I would
be happy to answer any other questions you may have. Thank you for your interest!