Owen C
ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS
Dulwich College, GCE A-levels: 2A*(Biology, Chemistry), 2A (Maths, Economics)
University College London, MBBS Medicine
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Head of mentoring team
Middle School Debating Tutor
Love Learning Tutors
Common Entrance: Mathematics and Science
GCSE: Maths, Additional Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Economics and Chinese
A-Level: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Economics
SKILLS AND INTERESTS
I pursue several interests outside medicine including music, chess, debating, MUN (Model United Nations) and sports. I am a racing team member of UCL Medical School Boat Club. At school (Dulwich College), I used to play croquet and do horse-riding. Oboe is one of my favourite musical instruments and I play it at leisure. I am also a big football fan. I trained at Manchester United Soccer School for 2 weeks when I was in Year 9! Besides, I have a huge passion for politics and economics. I love reading news, ‘The Economist’, etc., and engaging in conversation about our society. I can also speak Chinese fluently.
PERSONAL STATEMENT
My first experience of tutoring was in Year 10. I was one of the mentors at my old school and was assigned to look after two newcomers (Year 7 students). I am so glad that I was able to help them overcome the difficulties during the transition from junior school to middle school. I became to realise how helpful and enlightening tutoring can be to both the tutee and the tutor. I shared my experience and gave them support and encouragements by chatting with them, having lunch together and even by writing letters. I believe tutoring is beyond the level of traditional teaching as tutors can actually modify or even change their teaching style to best suit students’ need.
I do not think and certainly disagree with the traditional labelling that some students are ‘unsuccessful’ or ‘stupid’. Instead, I think it is more about finding out how they learn best. Unfortunately, the traditional teaching does not have the capacity to cater for everyone, hence those who do not learn well in direct, spoon-feeding approach are being left behind and gradually being labelled as ‘unsuccessful’. I remembered one of my two mentees was struggling in the first term with all the homework and exams. When I was talking to him, I found out that he did not know how to organise his spare time. I told him to keep a diary and write down the homework and tests. I also shared my tips with him on setting smaller goals and smaller objectives. He soon stopped handing in homework late and started to enjoy his time at school.
Having experienced an amazing education, I aspire greatly to help or encourage others to enjoy their education as well. Learning should be a happy and rewarding process. Although I am only a first year medical student, I am convinced that this gives me a huge advantage in tutoring as my understanding of A-level subjects is still very fresh and I will be able to share some practical advice with the tutee. I often share my experience on getting into medical schools with the boys from my old school. As I have received so much help in the past, I would really like to give something back to the school, the community and anyone who needs help.
I am passionate, self-motivated and flexible. I am convinced that I have the necessary skills and other personal qualities to be a successful tutor.