You’re not bad at chemistry — it was explained poorly. I’ll fix it.

Find out more about Varvara

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

  My interest in science began in childhood - I was always curious about how the world works on a fundamental level. I became passionate about tutoring in my second year of university, when I found myself thriving in organic chemistry. I started helping classmates, and soon after, I was officially asked to lead additional seminar sessions. That's when I realized I not only understood chemistry - I could explain it in a way that made others understand too.

• 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 chemistry, and as every chemistry tutor knows - the foundation is everything. I focus strongly on the basics: atomic structure, periodic table and periodicity, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, chemical reactions, states of matter and gas laws, thermochemistry, solutions and concentration, acids and bases, redox reactions and electrochemistry. These are the building blocks; if students miss them early on, everything else becomes harder. I enjoy breaking down complex concepts and watching students build confidence from the ground up. That said, my true passion is organic chemistry - I love it like nothing else on Earth. Its logic, its puzzles, and the beauty of how molecules interact captivate me every time. There aren't really topics I dislike - though I'll admit, endless stoichiometry problems can get repetitive!

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

  Yes, my chemistry teacher in high school was a big inspiration. She was kind yet firm - a perfect balance. She challenged us but also created a safe, motivating space. I believe that's the essence of a great teacher: someone who inspires without letting you get too comfortable.

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

  A good tutor needs to adapt to every student's level and learning style. No two students are the same - they come with different knowledge gaps, strengths, and confidence levels. You need to be patient, creative in your explanations, and genuinely curious about how your student thinks. Connection matters just as much as content.

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

  I remember one moment vividly - I was explaining electron configuration to a student who was completely lost and frustrated. I picked up colored markers, drew orbital boxes as bunk beds, and said, "Electrons are like kids who don't like sharing rooms unless they have to." He laughed - and suddenly, it clicked. He never forgot the concept after that. That's the beauty of teaching: finding the metaphor that unlocks someone's brain.

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

  One challenge in chemistry is the level of abstraction. Students can memorize mechanisms or equations, but true understanding requires visualizing atoms, electrons, or interactions that we can't actually see. Helping students "see the invisible" is both the hardest and most rewarding part of the job. It constantly pushes me to refine how I teach.

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

  I genuinely love teaching - it's one of my favorite things to do. But I also have a passion for movement and creative expression. I enjoy snowboarding, surfing, and dance. I also love drawing and painting. I think having other passions keeps me fresh and grounded.

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

  I care deeply about helping my students not just "get the right answer," but truly understand. I create a space where students feel safe to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow. I tailor every session to who they are, not just what's on the test. And I'm always learning too - that's what keeps it exciting.