H1 LC and Distinction JC maths student offering Junior and Leaving Cert grinds in Cork and online with tutoring experience

Find out more about Saanvi

• When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  I developed an interest in science and mathematics quite early in school. I always enjoyed understanding how things work, whether it was solving a maths problem or learning how biological systems function. Over time, I realised that explaining concepts to friends and classmates helped me understand them even better myself.
  
  My interest in computer science began in first year of secondary school when I applied for a global competition called Technovation where I developed an app called Stellar. I ended up winning the global technology aware.
  My interest in tutoring grew from helping others study for exams. I found it really rewarding to see someone go from feeling confused about a topic to feeling confident enough to solve problems independently. That experience made me realise how valuable personalised support can be for students.

• Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  I teach maths, chemistry, biology, and computer science. What I enjoy most is helping students understand the logic behind topics rather than just memorising procedures. In maths, I particularly like topics such as algebra, probabilility, trignometry, and problem-solving because once the underlying patterns become clear, students often find them much easier and even enjoyable. I firmly believe you can be very smart with the leaving cert maths course. I like to simplify the topics, teach what will get my students the most marks and show my students how to approach the questions to gain maximum marks.
  
  In biology, chemistry and the theory section computer science, not only do I have amazing notes, I also explain concepts applying them to real life. Some of my favourite topics in chemistry are organic chemistry, titrations, pH calculations! Some students find the "maths" part difficult but I think I can teach it in such a way that my students always have a structured approach to the questions no matter how "confusing" they may seem at first glance.
  
  I am a med student so I love biology especially human biology! I have a lot of knowledge on the topics and getting close to 100 percent in my own leaving cert I know the tips and tricks to study smart rather than hard in this subject.
  
  I find many of my students do not have a lot of theory notes for computer science so they find my classes very helpful - topics like computer systems, algoithms, history of computers, web infrastructure are some of my favourites. Not to mention interactive coding class to ace that section C of the paper.

• Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  Yes, I was fortunate to have teachers who were genuinely passionate about their subjects. The teachers who inspired me most were the ones who took the time to explain concepts clearly and encouraged curiosity rather than just focusing on memorisation.
  They created an environment where asking questions was encouraged, which made learning much more engaging. That approach strongly influenced how I like to teach—focusing on understanding, patience, and encouraging students to think critically.

• What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  I believe a good tutor needs patience, clear communication, and the ability to adapt their explanations to different learning styles. Every student learns differently, so it’s important to be flexible and find an approach that works for each individual.
  A good tutor should also create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes. Confidence plays a huge role in learning, especially in subjects like maths and science.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  One thing I remember clearly from school is helping a classmate prepare for an exam in a topic they had been struggling with. At first they felt completely lost, but after breaking the concept down step by step and working through a few problems together, something suddenly clicked for them.
  Seeing that moment of understanding was incredibly rewarding and reminded me how powerful clear explanations and patience can be when learning something difficult.

• What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still facing in your subject?

  One challenge I’ve experienced is that subjects like maths and science often build on earlier concepts. If a student misses one key idea, later topics can become confusing very quickly.
  I’ve also learned that sometimes the biggest difficulty isn’t the content itself but confidence. Many students believe they “aren’t good” at a subject before they even begin. Overcoming that mindset and building confidence step by step is often the most important part of learning.

• Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  I’m particularly passionate about helping students develop confidence in subjects they might initially find difficult. Watching someone go from feeling overwhelmed to understanding a topic independently is incredibly rewarding.
  
  Beyond tutoring, I am passionate about medicine, I love the gym and I also enjoy spending time with my friends learning new skills.

• What makes you a Superprof (besides answering these interview questions :-P) ?

  I try to focus not just on helping students get the right answer but on making sure they understand the process behind it. My goal is always to help students become independent learners who feel confident tackling new problems on their own.
  I’m also very patient and approachable, which helps students feel comfortable asking questions and working through difficulties. Every student progresses differently, and I enjoy adapting my teaching style to help each person reach their full potential.