Ali H.
ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS
International American High School, average of 9.1/10
A-levels in Biology, Chemistry and Physics at AAB
Final year of Bachelor of Science in Human Bioscience
Prospect Medical student
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Love Learning Tutors
Providing tutoring across all science subjects from Key Stage 2 through A-level, excluding A-level Physics
CoachBright
Volunteered for two months, providing complementary biology tutoring to disadvantaged students
Grays Tuition Centre
Tutored groups of 4 to 6 students in combined sciences over a six-month period, helping them develop a deeper understanding of scientific concepts
GOstudent
Currently tutoring online for over a year, with more than 10 students to date. Subjects include Biology and Chemistry at both GCSE and A-level, and Physics at the GCSE level
SKILLS & INTERESTS
I'm deeply invested in my education, fuelled by a genuine passion for science and a dream of becoming a surgeon. Outside my studies, I enjoy reading books on personal development and philosophy. I also love unwinding with comedy series like Friends and The Big Bang Theory, and hit the gym every day to relieve stress.
When it comes to adventures, I’m always up for something exciting. I love swimming in the ocean, wild camping, diving, sailing—basically, I'll say yes to any fun activity! I also play badminton whenever I get the chance.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Biochemistry Intern
Jun 2024 – September 2024 | University of Cambridge
- Investigating the integration of Salmonellae transmembrane effectors in M cells, specifically into GET and EMC pathways through knockdown of eukaryotic cell genome.
- Replicating a viral vector using lentivirus, gene knockdown using CRISPR/CAS9 and FACS analysis using FlowJo and R Studio.
Exam Invigilator
May 2024 – July 2024 | Bobby Moore Academy
- Completed the JCQ training for becoming an exam invigilator.
- Assisted in preparing examination halls, independently started and completed the examinations, from handing out and picking the exam papers.
- Assisted in sorting and shipping of the examination papers.
Laboratory Technician Assistant
Sep 2023 – April 2024 | London Metropolitan University
- Operating HPLC and GC machines, incubators and centrifuges, including sample preparation, data analysis, and troubleshooting.
- Adhering to COSHH and safety regulations for handling and appropriate disposal of chemicals and overall operations within a hazard level 2 laboratory.
- Preparing for practical experiments in nutrition, metabolism, and biochemistry, ensuring readiness for teaching and experimentation for over 80 students on average in a timely manner for delivery to meet deadlines.
Cocktail Bartender
Jan. 2023 – Aug. 2023 | Boisdale of Canary Wharf
- Demonstrated the capacity to maintain concentration and perform efficiently in a high-stress environment, such as a busy club bar with live music and a large volume of guests.
- Proven skills in delivering cocktails and wine quickly without sacrificing quality, essential in both the high-end restaurant setting and the bustling club bar.
Head Bartender Assistant
Feb. 2022 – Dec. 2022 | JW Marriott Grosvenor House
Consistent enforcement of health and safety protocols in the bar area, ensuring a safe environment for both guests and staff whilst delivering exquisite service in the most luxurious hotel in London.
Volunteering Experience
Emergency Department Volunteer
September 2024 – Present | University Hospital of Plymouth
Consoling patients and their companions in the emergency department alongside supporting staff.
Student Coach
Nov. 2022 – Dec. 2022 | Coach Bright
Led Biology sessions for GCSE students, focusing on developing independent study skills. Received a Bronze Student Leadership certificate.
Youth Volunteer
May 2019 – Feb. 2022 | Mosaic LGBT+ Youth Centre
Volunteered in event organization and adolescent panel and 1 to 1 research for service improvement and community awareness.
Earned an Outstanding Achiever certificate from the Jack Petchey Foundation.
Rapid Response Volunteer
Jul. 2021 – Aug. 2021 | University College London Hospital
Assisted in patient support and staff aid in various clinics, adhering to health & safety guidelines.
Refugee Support Volunteer
Sep. 2019 – Aug. 2021 | Breadwinners Charity
Served as a marketing assistant and ambassador, involved in participant interviews, training facilitation, and volunteer recruitment.
PERSONAL STATEMENT
My initial tutoring experiences began with helping my peers at school. I always enjoyed pre-learning and preparing for lessons in advance, which allowed me to build strong relationships with my classmates, as they often came to me for assistance with challenging topics.
My interest in tutoring sparked during my A-levels, when my personal tutor worked with me to create a personalized learning plan that significantly enhanced my understanding and passion for chemistry. This experience helped me realize that the most crucial part of learning is finding the right method for the individual. We all have different learning needs, speeds, and styles, and I firmly believe that effective learning methods should be self-designed rather than imposed. That’s why in my tutoring sessions, I encourage students to explain their thought processes, regardless of whether they arrive at the correct answer. This approach not only helps them build confidence but also allows for a deeper understanding of the material.
One of my proudest moments was when the father of a GCSE student I tutored reached out to share that his son had achieved a grade B in his sciences, despite being predicted “U” grades just four months earlier. This experience not only reinforced my belief in the effectiveness of my tutoring methods but also brought me immense joy, knowing that I had made a meaningful impact on a young person’s academic journey.
My personal journey has involved significant challenges and transitions. I was born in Iran and lived there until I was 14. I then moved to Georgia to attend an American high school before coming to England as a refugee at the age of 16, where I was placed under the care of social services. Being both a refugee and a care leaver in the UK has been daunting at times, and I have often felt the pain of being separated from my family. Despite these challenges, I have maintained a positive outlook and am deeply committed to becoming someone who can make a meaningful difference in others' lives. This commitment drives my aspiration to enter medical school, where I hope to begin studying next September. In the meantime, I am dedicated to contributing to the next generation by tutoring and helping students discover their academic passions, and I hope to share my passion for sciences with your child too!