Science Tutoring

From the unique terminology to the challenging ideas and equations, there are plenty of reasons why you might consider science tutoring. Learn more about how science tutoring can help you master any scientific subject.


Why You Might Need Science Tutoring

  1. You Need Help Understanding Complex Concepts: The scientific disciplines are filled with complex concepts that students are probably encountering for the first time. These concepts can also be abstract, making them hard to visualize.
  2. You Struggle with Math: All scientific subjects have a component of mathematics. This can make science daunting for students who already struggle with math.
  3. You’re Unfamiliar with Abstract Thinking: Science requires students to make connections between ideas and apply abstract principles. This is challenging for many students, especially when it’s new and unfamiliar.
  4. You’re Overwhelmed by All the Memorization: Many subjects in science require students to memorize formulas, equations, and tables. This can be overwhelming for some students.


How Science Tutoring Can Help

  1. A science tutor can help break down challenging concepts and make them more understandable for students. A tutor can teach concepts in new ways that might resonate more with your student, because of the personalized, one-on-one nature of tutoring.
  2. For mathematical concepts and equations, a science tutor will practice over and over with your student until they have mastered them. A science tutor can provide feedback in real time while your student is working on an equation and point out what they are doing wrong and how to correctly solve the problem.
  3. Once a student grasps the foundational concepts, a science tutor can teach them more advanced lessons. A tutor can go beyond the general curriculum they might be receiving in school and provide new opportunities for enrichment and understanding.
  4. A science tutor will help your student memorize formulas and tables for their course. A good tutor will give them tips to make memorization easier, as well as advise them on how to prepare for exams and tackle projects and labs.

Science Tutoring Subjects We Offer

Science can be daunting, but tutoring can help! Call or email us to schedule your first session today!

When to Hire a Tutor

Many people think the only time to hire a tutor is before finals or when you’re doing poorly in a class. However, we’ve put together a list of other times it would be helpful to work with a tutor. Learn more about when to hire a tutor below.


At the Beginning of a New Semester

Hiring a tutor at the beginning of the semester is important if you struggled the previous semester or school year. If you don’t have a strong foundational understanding of old concepts, you will struggle as the semester goes on. A tutor will help you learn or remember past lessons and integrate how those relate to what you’re learning in class in real time.


After a Big Exam

If you get your grade back from a big test and the result isn’t what you were expecting, this is an ideal time to hire a tutor. Meet with your teacher to go over the exam and find out what you missed. With that information, your tutor can hone in on exactly what areas to go over with you. A tutor can also offer test-taking tips, so you can better prepare for the next test (and avoid bad study habits).


If You Lack Confidence in a Subject

Are you nervous to read out loud during class? Do you drag your feet doing math homework? Maybe you never participate in Spanish class discussions. These could be signs that you lack confidence in a certain subject, even if you are a smart and capable student. A tutor can break down difficult lessons, go over vocabulary, and slow down lessons so you understand the work you’re doing.


Before a Standardized Test

Standardized tests like the Digital SAT, ACT, ISEE, and SSAT are not like regular tests where you memorize facts. These exams are designed not only to test knowledge and memory, but also critical thinking and reasoning skills. Some exams like the SAT are known for confusing questions that you might not know how to solve without preparation. Standardized test prep tutoring will prepare you for the exam and even help you practice managing your time.


Before an Essay is Due

A tutor can help you with essay writing at any stage. From forming a strong thesis statement to integrating supporting evidence and constructing paragraphs, a tutor will help you ace your essay and improve your writing skills.


If You Struggle With Staying Organized

Effective organization and study skills are essential for academic success and beyond. A tutor can provide time management guidance, note-taking strategies, and effective study habits. All tutors and academic coaches at Hodis Learning & Music can help you develop your organization and study skills in any subject.


While Working on a Project

A tutor can play a crucial role in helping you with a school project by providing guidance, support, and resources throughout the project stages. A tutor will help with research, provide meaningful feedback, and even help you practice your presentation skills.

Hiring a tutor under any circumstance can be an important and necessary step to ensure your student feels confident in class and understands concepts. School and learning can feel overwhelming, but having the right tutor can make even the most intimidating or confusing subject material more approachable.

Learn more about the subjects we offer academic tutoring in, as well as our standardized test prep tutoring. Call or email us to schedule your first session today!

expert services for self-determination program clients

Is your student receiving support from the Department of Developmental Services’ Self-Determination Program (SDP)? It’s now easier than ever for SDP enrollees to work with Hodis Learning & Music! Learn more about why we may be a great fit for your student and how to get started with our services.

Is Hodis Learning & Music Right for My Student?

All of our expert educators are specifically selected for their years of experience working with students who have developmental differences as well as their expertise, patience, and kindness Our educators serve students with:

  • autism spectrum disorders,
  • intellectual disabilities,
  • cerebral palsy,
  • epilepsy, and
  • other related conditions.

What Types of Services Are Covered

We have experience providing academic tutoring, music lessons, and art instruction to SDP enrollees. However, which type(s) of services the SDP will cover for your student depends on your student’s specific needs. We can provide guidance based on our previous SDP students’ successes in obtaining coverage.

How It Works

If you’re enrolled in the SDP, then the process is simple!

  • The student’s family arranges with the regional center to have our services covered by the SDP
  • We sign a contract with the student’s financial management service (FMS)
  • The student’s family signs a contract with us
  • We submit timesheets to the FMS on a bimonthly basis on behalf of the student’s family

Additional Considerations

There are three important considerations detailed in the FMS’s contract with us:

  • The FMS only pays for services that fall under the scope of the contract that they send to us. So, if the original contract stipulated academic tutoring services, then your student cannot get music lessons covered by the SDP unless a new contract is drawn and signed.
  • The FMS only pays for services rendered. So, if a student cancels a session within 24 hours, then the student’s family is responsible for the full price of the canceled session.
  • The FMS designates a specific budget for the use of Hodis Learning & Music services. If the student uses more than the specified budget in a given month, then the student’s family is responsible for any overage.

Sign Up for Academic Tutoring, Music Lessons, or Art Instruction Today!

Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

Preparing for the SAT & ACT

The SAT and ACT are two standardized tests used for college admissions in the United States. Both tests assess students’ academic readiness for college, but they have some key differences. Read on to learn more about preparing for the SAT and ACT exams.

Key Differences Between the SAT and ACT

  • Sections: The SAT has three sections: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. The ACT has four sections: Reading, English, Math, and Science.
  • Science: The ACT has a separate science section, while the SAT does not.
  • Scores: The SAT scores range from 400 to 1600, while the ACT scores range from 1 to 36.

SAT Structure

Component

Time Alotted (Minutes) Number of Questions Time per Question (Seconds)

Reading

65 52 75
Writing & Language 35 44 48

Math

80 58 83

ACT Structure

Component Time Alotted (Minutes) Number of Questions Time per Question (Seconds)
English 45 75 36
Mathematics 60

60

60
Reading 35 40 52.5
Science

35

40 52.5
Writing (optional)

40

1 essay

Students who may benefit from taking the SAT

  • Students who are strong in reading and writing. The SAT has a heavier focus on reading and writing than the ACT.
  • Students who want more time to complete each section of the test. As you might have noticed in the tables above, the SAT provides more time per question than the ACT does.
  • Students who are applying to colleges that prefer the SAT. Some colleges have a preference for the SAT over the ACT, so research the colleges you are interested in to see if they have a preference.

Students who may benefit from taking the ACT

  • Students who are strong in math and science. The ACT has a separate science section, which can be a good option for students who are interested in science-related fields. However, advanced knowledge of science is not necessary. The science section of the ACT will measure data interpretation, scientific investigation, and model evaluation.
  • Students who are applying to colleges that prefer the ACT. Some colleges have a preference for the ACT over the SAT, so research the colleges you are interested in to see if they have a preference.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which test is right for you is to take a practice test of each. This will help you get a feel for the format and difficulty of each test and decide which one you are more comfortable with.

Preparing for the SAT & ACT

  • Take practice tests. Practice tests will familiarize you with the format of the test, the types of questions that are asked, and the time constraints. There are many official and unofficial practice tests available online and in bookstores.
  • Review your weak areas. Review the questions that you missed after you take a practice test. This will help you identify your weak areas and focus your study efforts on those areas.
  • Develop good test-taking strategies. There are a number of test-taking strategies that can help you improve your score on the SAT or ACT. These strategies include managing your time effectively, eliminating answer choices, and reading carefully.
  • Tutoring: Consider hiring an SAT or ACT tutor for personalized help and attention. A tutor can help you identify your weak areas, develop good test-taking strategies, and practice answering questions. When it comes to the SAT and ACT, it isn’t always a matter of what you know, but how you approach the questions. A tutor will prepare you for the tricky questioning that often appears on these tests.

Sign Up for Test Prep Tutoring Today!

Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

Preparing for the ISEE and SSAT Exams

The ISEE and SSAT are two of the most popular standardized tests used for admission to independent (private) schools in the United States. Both exams assess math, verbal, and reading skills, but there are some key differences between the two. If you plan to apply to an independent school, learn about preparing for the ISEE and SSAT exams here.

ISEE

  • The ISEE has four levels: Primary (grades 2-4), Lower (grades 5-6), Middle (grades 7-8), and Upper (grades 9-12).
  • The ISEE has a dedicated math section.
  • The ISEE does not penalize for incorrect answers.

SSAT

  • The SSAT has three levels: Elementary (grades 4-6), Middle (grades 7-8), and Upper (grades 9-12).
  • The SSAT does not have a dedicated math section, but does have two quantitative reasoning sections.
  • The SSAT penalizes for incorrect answers, the ISEE does not.

Who might benefit from taking one over the other?

  • Students who are strong in math might benefit from taking the ISEE, as it has a dedicated math section.
  • Students who are concerned about the penalty for incorrect answers might benefit from taking the ISEE, as the ISEE does not penalize for incorrect answers.
  • Students who are looking for a challenging test might benefit from taking the ISEE, as it is generally considered to be a more challenging test than the SSAT.

Talk to your child’s guidance counselor or a private school admissions consultant to decide which test to take. They can assess your child’s strengths and weaknesses and recommend the best test for them.

Common methods when preparing for the ISEE and SSAT exams

  • Take practice tests. Practice tests will familiarize you with the format of the test, the types of questions that are asked, and the time constraints. There are many official and unofficial practice tests available online and in bookstores.
  • Review your weak areas. Review the questions that you missed after you take a practice test. This will help you identify your weak areas and focus your study efforts on those areas.
  • Develop good test-taking strategies. There are a number of test-taking strategies that can help you improve your score on the ISEE or SSAT. These strategies include managing your time effectively, eliminating answer choices, and reading carefully.
  • Get enough sleep the night before the test. Being well-rested will help you focus and perform your best on the test.

Resources that can help you prepare for the ISEE and SSAT exams

  • Official practice tests. You can find official practice tests through the Educational Records Bureau (ERB), which administers the ISEE and SSAT.
  • Tutoring. Consider hiring an ISEE or SSAT tutor for personalized help and attention. A tutor can help you identify your weak areas, develop good test-taking strategies, and practice answering questions.

Sign Up for Test Prep Tutoring Today!

Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

10 Tips for Getting Back into the Swing of School. Back to School Tips.

The start of a new semester can be a daunting time for many students. After a long break of relaxation and freedom, it can be tough to get back into the swing of things. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! Here are 10 back to school tips to help you have a successful semester:

1. Start Planning Ahead

The earlier you start planning, the less stressed you’ll feel when the semester starts.

  • Buy your textbooks early. This will save you time and hassle later on.
  • Get organized. Keep track of your assignments and use a planner to stay organized.
  • Create a study schedule. Block out dedicated study times in your schedule so that you always have time to complete homework and prepare for exams.

2. Get Organized

Getting organized is essential for staying on top of your schoolwork.

  • Create a study space. Find a quiet place where you can focus and avoid distractions.
  • Keep track of your assignments. Use a planner or app to keep track of all of your assignments.
  • Use a to-do list. A to-do list can help you stay on top of your tasks and avoid procrastination.

3. Set Goals

Set goals. What do you want to achieve this semester?

  • Set SMART goals. Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals to help you stay motivated.
  • Set realistic goals. Don’t set yourself up for failure by setting goals that are too ambitious.
  • Review your goals regularly. Make sure your goals are still relevant and achievable as the semester progresses.

4. Find a Study Buddy

With a study buddy who is serious about school, you can:

  • Stay motivated and on track,
  • Quiz each other, share notes, and help each other understand difficult concepts, and
  • Help each other understand difficult concepts.

5. Take Care of Yourself

Taking care of your physical and mental health will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the semester.

6. Take Breaks

It’s important to take breaks throughout the day, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Get up and move around, or take a few minutes to relax and clear your head. Taking breaks will help you stay:

  • Focused,
  • Productive, and
  • Motivated.

7. Reward Yourself

When you reach a goal, like studying for an hour or getting the grade you wanted on a test, reward yourself with something you enjoy.

  • Make sure to celebrate even the little victories.
  • This will help you stay motivated and on track.
  • Rewards can be small (like going on a nice walk) or large (like celebrating with dinner), but they should be something that you will appreciate.

8. Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

Comparison can be a major source of stress.

  • Everyone learns at their own pace.
  • Focus on your own progress, and remember to celebrate those little victories.
  • If you fail, instead of comparing yourself to others, focus your energy on learning from your failure.

9. Have Fun!

Learning is perhaps the greatest gift in life – so, try to find the fun in school.

  • Lean into aspects of school that you find fun and engaging.
  • Find ways to make learning fun, and don’t forget to enjoy yourself.
  • Especially during stressful moments in your education, try to keep in mind the parts of school that bring you joy.

10. Ask for Help If You Need It

Asking for your help can feel vulnerable and intimidating. But asking for – and getting – the help you need could make all the difference.

  • Ask for help from your teachers, classmates, or parents if you’re struggling.
  • Don’t wait until it’s too late to ask for help.
  • There are also many resources available online and at your school that can help you succeed. Consider tutoring if you’re having difficulty with a particular subject or academic coaching if you need help with general “good student skills” like organization and time management.

Consider Tutoring or Academic Coaching for the New Semester

Get a head start on the new semester with an expert tutor or academic coach. Our tutors and coaches have years of experience helping students get organized, master course material, and succeed in their academics. Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

Strategies for Overcoming Math Anxiety: Tips from Expert Math Tutors

Math is tough and causes anxiety for many students. We asked our expert math tutors for advice on managing math anxiety. Read through their tips below.

About Our Math Tutors

All three of our math tutors interviewed in this article are experts with years of tutoring experience.

  • Muan is a math and physics tutor. Muan went through SPUSD before entering CSULA at the age of 14, where he earned a B.S. in Physics with a minor in History.
  • Amber is a math, biology, and chemistry tutor. During the day, she is a high school STEM teacher. She received her B.S. and M.S. in Biomedical Engineering from USC.
  • Nathan is a math and computer science tutor. He is a Pasadena local who went to Flintridge Prep before earning a B.S. in Computer Science from Rice University.

What causes math anxiety for students?

The connection between math and emotional stress, along with the resulting anxiety, is understandable. When faced with the challenge of learning math, failure is often seen as a sign of incompetence, which is not the right perspective. Failure is actually a stepping stone to progress. However, when failure leads to negative emotions like lower grades or social embarrassment, our natural response is to avoid further failure. This typically leads to disengagement from learning, which perpetuates a cycle of anxiety and failure. – Muan M.

Many students have a “fixed mindset” when it comes to their skill in math, meaning they believe that math aptitude is an intrinsic talent rather than a skill they build over time. This creates problems for students because it makes them believe that they cannot improve and that there is little reason to try to improve. – Amber H.

Math anxiety has many causes, including negative classroom experiences and poor math performance. Math anxiety can also cause a negative feedback loop in which poor math performances cause worse math anxiety, which can in turn cause worse math performances. – Nathan P.

How can tutoring help students lower their math anxiety?

It’s easy to get discouraged when it feels like our efforts are not yielding the desired results. Without a sense of effective agency and responsibility in our attempts to improve, it becomes difficult to persist in studying or completing homework. If our efforts don’t lead to meaningful outcomes, why bother trying? This is why tutoring is valuable for struggling students. A tutor can offer guidance not only in the subject matter but also in metacognition—the ability to understand and regulate one’s own thinking processes. The role of a tutor goes beyond patching up knowledge gaps. A tutor helps students develop the skills and confidence to effectively handle future failures on their own. Students should be reassured that it’s okay to be inexperienced and that lack of understanding, not inherent ability, is the cause. – Muan M.

Tutoring gives students a judgment-free zone where they can ask questions about math. In a large classroom, many students will not ask questions out of fear of being judged by their peers. With a tutor in a one-to-one setting, this fear of judgment goes away, giving many students the freedom to ask questions and get clarification. – Amber H.

Tutoring gives students a chance to prove their skills in math, which can help to break the math anxiety cycle. Specifically, taking them out of a classroom that might be providing negative experiences and giving them a more personal, nurturing environment can do wonders. Also, the time spent in a one-on-one tutoring session can help immensely their grasp of math concepts, which will help them with any math anxiety. – Nathan P.

How do you personally help students feel more confident and less anxious about math?

There are two types of anxiety to address: high-stakes anxiety (during formal assessments) and low-stakes anxiety (pervasive in the learning process and life in general). High-stakes anxiety can be overcome with time and persistence by reinforcing the student’s self-confidence through tangible achievements in school and effective learning. However, reducing low-stakes anxiety during the learning process itself is also important. As a tutor, I aim to create a supportive environment, making learning enjoyable rather than dreadful. Engaging with anecdotes, incorporating small breaks, and maintaining a positive emotional state despite setbacks all contribute to this. – Muan M.

Admitting that you don’t know something takes a lot of vulnerability! Therefore, I make sure first and foremost that students feel like they are in a safe, non-judgmental environment. That way, they feel free to be vulnerable and ask questions. The first step to building rapport with a student is always to create a safe space for students to express themselves. – Amber H.

I personally help students feel less anxious about math by celebrating little victories in every session and listening to them when they express their feelings. I have always been a very encouraging person and a great listener, and have found that both are great ways to help others overcome their anxieties. – Nathan P.

Aside from tutoring, what can students do for themselves to overcome their anxiety?

Dealing with anxiety can be challenging. Personally, I’ve found that having a support network is immensely helpful in reducing negative emotions, including anxiety. Spending time with family or friends doing enjoyable activities can make a significant difference. Exercise has also been proven to reduce stress and improve mood. – Muan M.

Students can start by phasing out negative self-talk, such as “I’m just bad at math” or “Math is terrible.” These phrases treat math skills as fixed and intrinsic. Instead, students should replace these phrases with things like “I don’t know how to do this yet.” Introducing “yet” to this phrase shifts the focus to improvement and growth. Parents can help too by redirecting negative self-talk when they hear it. – Amber H.

Students can utilize deep breathing techniques such as the box breathing method to calm themselves when they feel their math anxiety taking control. They can also use more traditional therapy to help overcome greater anxiety issues. – Nathan P.

Get Expert Help for Any Math Subject

Our math tutors can help students of all ages and backgrounds:

Sign Up for Math Tutoring Today!

If your student is struggling with math, there is hope! Tutoring is the most effective way to improve a student’s understanding of math concepts, which helps to ease anxiety surrounding the subject. Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

playing music can improve academic performance and help you get into college

There are many benefits to learning to play a musical instrument. In addition to being a fun and rewarding hobby, music can also improve your cognitive abilities, help you learn more effectively, and even boost your chances of getting into college.

How Does Music Improve Cognitive Abilities?

Playing a musical instrument requires a wide range of cognitive skills, including:

  • Attention: You need to be able to focus on the music and you’re playing, even when there are distractions around you.
  • Memory: You need to be able to remember the notes and rhythms of the music, as well as the fingerings for your instrument.
  • Problem-solving: You need to be able to figure out how to play the music correctly, even if it is challenging.
  • Creativity: You need to be able to express yourself through music and come up with new ideas.

All of these cognitive skills are also important for academic success. Studies have shown that students who play musical instruments tend to have better grades in school, especially in math and science. They also tend to score higher on standardized tests.

How Does Music Help You Learn More Effectively?

There are a few reasons why music can help you learn more effectively. First, music can help you improve your memory. When you learn a new piece of music, you are essentially learning a new language. You have to remember the notes, the rhythms, and the fingerings. This process of learning helps to strengthen your memory skills.

Second, music can help you improve your focus and concentration. When you are playing an instrument, you need to be fully focused on the music. This can help you to develop the ability to focus on your schoolwork and other tasks.

Third, music can help you to relax and de-stress. When you are feeling stressed, it can be difficult to learn effectively. However, music can help you to relax and reduce stress levels. This can make it easier for you to focus on your schoolwork and other tasks.

How Can Music Help You Get Into College?

Many colleges and universities look for well-rounded students who have a variety of interests. Playing a musical instrument is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to a hobby and your ability to learn new skills.

Additionally, many colleges offer music scholarships, which can help you to pay for your education. If this is something you’re interested in, then learn more about our music school prep and audition training workshop.

If you are interested in learning to play a musical instrument, there are many resources available to help you get started. You can take lessons from a private instructor, join a community music school, or even learn online. No matter how you choose to learn, playing a musical instrument can be a rewarding experience that will benefit you both academically and personally.

Additional Tips for Getting Started with a Musical Instrument:

  • Choose an instrument that you are interested in and that is appropriate for your age and skill level. See also: choosing the right instrument.
  • Find a qualified instructor who can teach you the basics of playing the instrument.
  • Practice regularly. The more you practice, the better you will become at playing the instrument.
  • Be patient. It takes time and practice to become a good musician.
  • Have fun! Playing music should be enjoyable.

If you are willing to put in the time and effort, learning to play a musical instrument can be a rewarding experience that will benefit you in many ways. So what are you waiting for? Pick up an instrument today and start playing!

Music Lessons at Hodis Learning & Music

Music lessons with Hodis Learning & Music’s expert music educators are a great way to help your child develop their musical skills and practice regularly. Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today

Learn more about the musical instruments that you can learn with an expert music teacher at Hodis Learning & Music:

Some colleges are waiving the requirement for standardized testing. But the truth is that college admissions committees are still more likely to accept students who submit high test scores than they are to accept students who do not submit any test scores. So, getting high SAT scores is still as important as ever. SAT tutoring is the best option for making significant changes to your test scores. Continue reading to learn why working with expert SAT tutors is the right option for your student.

Primary Benefits of Private SAT Tutoring

There are many benefits to private SAT tutoring. Here are some of the most important:

  • Personalized attention: When you work with a private tutor, you get one-on-one attention. This means that the tutor can focus on your strengths and weaknesses, and help you develop a study plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
  • Expert guidance: Private SAT tutors at Hodis Learning & Music are experts in the SAT. They know the test inside and out, and they can teach you the strategies and techniques that you need to succeed.
  • Motivation: A private tutor can help you stay motivated and on track with your studies. They can also provide you with encouragement and support when you need it.
  • Flexibility: Private tutoring is flexible. You can work with your tutor at a time that is convenient for you, and you can focus on the areas that you need the most help with.

Private SAT Tutoring Can Also Help You:

  • Improve your reading comprehension skills: The SAT includes a section on reading comprehension, which tests your ability to understand and analyze passages. A private tutor can help you improve your reading comprehension skills by teaching you how to identify the main idea of a passage, how to make inferences, and how to answer comprehension questions.
  • Master math concepts: The SAT also includes a section on math, which tests your knowledge of basic math concepts. A private tutor can help you master math concepts by providing you with extra practice, explaining concepts in a way that you understand, and helping you develop problem-solving skills.
  • Develop test-taking strategies: The SAT is a timed test, so it is important to develop effective test-taking strategies. A private tutor can help you develop test-taking strategies by teaching you how to manage your time, how to avoid careless errors, and how to answer questions quickly and accurately.

If you are serious about getting a high score on the SAT, then private SAT tutoring is a great option. With the help of a private tutor, you can improve your skills, boost your confidence, and achieve your target score.

How to Choose a Private SAT Tutor

When choosing a private SAT tutor, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

  • Experience: Make sure that the tutor has experience teaching the SAT. They should be familiar with the test format, the types of questions that are asked, and the most effective strategies for answering them.
  • Credentials: The tutor should have the appropriate credentials. They should be certified by a reputable organization, such as the Association for Test Preparation, Admissions, and Private Tutoring.
  • Personality: The tutor should be a good fit for you. You should feel comfortable working with them, and you should feel confident that they can help you achieve your goals.

Conclusion

Private SAT tutoring can be a great investment in your future. With the help of a private tutor, you can improve your skills, boost your confidence, and achieve your target score. If you are serious about getting a high score on the SAT and getting into the college of your dreams, then private SAT tutoring is a great option.

2023-2024 Test Prep Dates

We recommend beginning test prep tutoring at least 2-3 months before your first test date, depending on how much experience you have.

SAT Test Date Registration Deadline
August 26, 2023 July 28, 2023
October 7, 2023 September 7, 2023
November 4, 2023 October 5, 2023
December 2, 2023 November 2, 2023
March 9, 2024 February 23, 2024
May 4, 2024 April 19, 2024
June 1, 2024 May 17, 2024

Register for the SAT test on the CollegeBoard’s website here.

Sign Up for SAT Tutoring 

Raise your test scores with expert, private SAT tutoring at Hodis Learning & Music. Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

Educator Spotlight: Muan M.

What subjects do you teach?

  • Academic Tutoring: AP Physics (Mechanics and Electromagnetism+Waves), Lower and Upper Division Physics (Solid State Mechanics, Thermodynamics, etc), Algebra 1 and 2, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Calculus.

What’s the most rewarding part of being an educator?

For me, by far the most rewarding aspect of being an educator is the relationship that is fostered with not just each student, but their families as a whole. You learn about the struggles each family goes through and get to experience a wide variety of cultures and ways of life. That is what makes it so meaningful: the process of gradually understanding their difficulties and being able to help them from the inside out, watching the students grow, and sharing in the relief and pride of each wonderful family. It’s something really special.


What are the most common areas you see your students struggling in? How do you help them in those areas?

I feel like a component of academic success that is oftentimes overlooked is the student’s confidence in their abilities. Obviously their aptitude is a major factor, but the goal should be to learn as much as possible. From that will come the ability to solve problems and get better grades. The thing to start with is getting students to really enjoy the process of learning and school in general, and that comes with confidence in their ability to figure things out.

That is where I feel many of the students I have worked with have had their motivation stalled. They may have had a bad string of tests or had someone in their academic life disapprove of their efforts. Regardless of the reason for it, that lack of self-assurance is a very common issue, and one that everyone faces at some point. It just takes time, and sometimes someone (like an HLM tutor) to help you along the way sometimes.


How do you help them improve in those areas?

The first steps toward achieving confidence and the sort of upward spiral of enjoyment and ability are not complicated. It is a combination of a lot of things, but fundamentally, hard work will do wonders to start students on that path. It is important that hard work is met with results though, to start that positive feedback loop. When first starting out with a student, it’s of paramount importance that they feel as though they have control of what they’re doing. I think that’s really what the value of tutors and teachers in general are: to provide guidance and tailor material so that the proper difficulty balance is struck to keep the student motivated as well as learning.


What do you enjoy doing outside of teaching students?

I graduated with my BS in physics last year and now spend a lot of my days pouring over math problems with students, so I’ve discovered some more artistic hobbies. I’ve recently gotten into making music (I have a synthesizer and everything, which is fun) and film production/editing. I love to read, mostly fantasy books at the moment, like The Kingkiller Chronicles. I also spend a lot of time either in the gym or playing pick-up basketball. It’s a nice balance.


What do you think makes Hodis Learning & Music a great service and company to work for?

I can honestly say that, over the course of my admittedly limited work experience, Hodis Learning & Music is the best company I’ve worked for thus far. Because it was founded and is based in the South Pasadena/Pasadena area, HLM is a very close-knit community of students, families, tutors, and school districts. It makes everything a bit more comfortable and easy. With this also comes an immense amount of experience with the California education curriculum.

I also have to give props to the president of the company, Drew Hodis, and the rest of management. They run a really tight ship and make every effort to make it an easy process for us tutors and for the students and families. I’m really happy to be working for HLM!

Learn more about Muan.