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From Struggling Student to Science Tutor: My Journey
When I first entered high school, I struggled. The jump from junior high to high school was overwhelming—the pace was faster, the concepts were more advanced, and I didn’t yet know how to study effectively. My go-to method of just re-reading notes and doing a few practice questions didn’t prepare me for the level of thinking required in exams. It showed in my grades.
Everything changed after I received a disappointing mark on my first biology test. I realized that if I wanted different results, I needed a different approach. That was the beginning of my personal study system—a mix of focused practice, concept mapping, and breaking down material into manageable chunks. Slowly, my grades improved, and so did my confidence.
Finding My Passion for Teaching
After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, I moved to Seoul to teach English. I wasn’t entirely sure what career path I wanted, but something clicked when I stood in front of a classroom. I loved helping students learn. I loved the energy, the curiosity, and especially the "aha" moments when a concept finally made sense. Teaching wasn’t just a job—it was deeply fulfilling.
The experience inspired me to return to Edmonton and complete a Bachelor of Secondary Education at the University of Alberta, majoring in Chemistry and minoring in General Science. During my practicum and time as a substitute teacher, I realized that while I enjoyed the classroom, I wanted to work more closely with students. That led me to tutoring.
My Approach to Tutoring
Tutoring gives me the opportunity to truly listen—to understand each student's unique challenges and learning style. I tailor every session to meet their specific needs, using targeted practice questions to build skills step-by-step. We start with the basics and move toward more complex problems, always building confidence along the way.
For example, if a student is working on concentration formulas in chemistry, we begin with straightforward problems, then build up to multi-step word problems where they have to break things down and apply their understanding.
A Success Story: Priya’s Journey to 92%
One of my proudest tutoring experiences was working with Priya, a student who was struggling in Chemistry 30 after scoring in the 60–70% range in Chemistry 20. She had a packed schedule with high school volleyball and found it difficult to connect with her teacher’s explanations.
We started working online using a shared whiteboard. I guided her through step-by-step problems, gave real-time feedback, and helped her organize her study sessions using class notes, assignments, and past diploma exams. As her confidence grew, we began working ahead of the class.
Her scores steadily climbed into the high 80s and 90s. She scored 92% on her Chemistry 30 Diploma Exam and was accepted early into the nursing program at MacEwan University.
Another Transformation: Maya’s Chemistry Comeback
Maya, a high school senior aiming for a medical career, felt defeated after struggling with Chemistry 20. Determined to turn things around in Chemistry 30, she began tutoring with me twice a week at the Strathcona Library. We worked through her class content, built study systems, and practiced ahead of schedule to build her confidence.
Her grades began to soar—consistently hitting 85–100% on unit exams. Her final Chemistry 30 grade opened the door to early admission at the University of Alberta, putting her medical dreams back on track.
From both Maya and her mom, I received heartfelt gratitude for the personalized support, flexible scheduling, and the calm, structured approach that helped Maya truly enjoy learning again.
Why I Tutor
Helping students like Priya and Maya achieve their goals is why I do this work. I know what it feels like to struggle and not know how to study. I also know what it feels like to overcome that challenge and finally feel confident in a subject.
Now, I help other students do the same. Whether you’re aiming for a competitive program or just want to feel less overwhelmed in class, I’m here to help you succeed—step by step.
About the Author
Seo Youn Park is a dedicated chemistry and science tutor based in Alberta with over five years of teaching experience—two years in South Korea and three years in Alberta. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Bachelor of Secondary Education (Chemistry major, General Science minor) from the University of Alberta.
Seo Youn is known for turning confusion into clarity, especially for students preparing for critical exams like Chemistry 30. Her personalized, step-by-step approach has helped students like Priya and Maya achieve top marks and early university acceptance. Parents describe her as professional, approachable, and deeply committed to student success.
Ready to feel more confident in Chemistry or Math?
Schedule a free consultation by clicking the button below or email Seo Youn at [email protected].
