PrepNow Tutor - Taylor T.
Taylor has taught undergraduates in physics labs, mentored students in fundamental research, and developed engineering curricula. He earned a BS in physics from Colorado State University and a master's degree in applied physics from Northern Arizona University, where he was a teaching assistant for physics labs. Having worked in a next-generation battery research lab at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colorado, he is adept at helping students build connections between the material and hands-on applications.
As a teaching assistant, he covered topics like mechanics for engineering and electricity & magnetism for non-engineers. "It was rewarding to get end-of-the-semester student evaluations and have students express their gratitude for helping them understand concepts; they described how they enjoyed the labs and appreciated the effort put in either after class or during office hours to ensure they have a firm grasp of concepts to help them be successful in their physics course," he explains.
Additionally, Taylor worked at Northern Arizona University (in his hometown of Flagstaff), developing curriculum in the Engineering Department to help prepare individuals to go into the semiconductor industry. As a graduate student, he was jazzed to mentor undergraduates in his research lab. "It was enjoyable directing them in fundamental research practices while showing them that laboratory research skills are within their grasp and that they can teach themselves how to be successful in the research environment," he reflects.
Taylor describes his teaching style as patient, structured, and student-centered. He encourages students to work through problems on their own as much as possible. "This allows students to actively engage with the material; my role is to guide them, ask the right questions, and help clarify concepts when they get stuck," he says. He's found that when students practice reasoning through problems independently, they build confidence and are much more effective learners.
In high school, Taylor played football and, later, worked as a snowboarding instructor.
In his free time, he loves being in nature, playing music (guitar, drums, and piano), and reading. "My outdoor activities include mountain biking, backpacking, skiing, and snowboarding." Fun fact: Taylor has summited multiple mountains above 14,000 feet!
|