Tutorfair profiles: Meet Daniel

Daniel is a junior barrister in Northern Ireland, currently focused on criminal law. He has been tutoring with Tutorfair Foundation for 3 years. Read on to see what makes him an admirable mentor to students.

What brought you to tutoring?

I was studying law at Queens University, Belfast, when I saw a post for volunteer tutors and it seemed an interesting thing to try. I started teaching geography at first, and then law and other subjects as well. I found the experience very fulfilling and decided to continue. Over time, I found that teaching a concept helped me revisit it, look at it afresh and strengthen it in my own mind.

What are the a-ha moments for you?

Good grades are always a moment.

And then of course, there are times when a student starts out not understanding a concept and halfway into the lesson, it lands and they get it. That’s rewarding.

How would you describe your teaching style?

I like to structure my tutorials in a way that we talk through concepts. Some people use PowerPoint presentations, but I prefer to talk with my students so that we are looking at the concept in different ways.

How does this improve their learning?

Students learn when they are comfortable and when they are okay asking questions that seem silly. The only reason I’m here is to help them. So, if they need a break for a moment or to stay longer with something, that’s okay. It’s a part of learning.

Tell us about you outside of tutoring.

I enjoy trying to keep fit at the gym with weightlifting. Working in a city, I like to take long walks in more rural areas at weekends - to take a break in nature. I also enjoy reading and am currently working through George Orwell books that have been on the shelf, unread for some time.

How would you describe your experience with Tutorfair Foundation?

It’s rewarding to help students who need the extra support, and to share your knowledge and time where you can. I can.

Meet our community of talented tutors here.