PrepNow Tutor - Francis M.
Francis is dedicated to the well-being and health of his students. He holds a BS in molecular, cell, and developmental biology with a minor in global health from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA); thus it is no surprise that he advocates for mental health and self-care. However, he also knows that students’ well-being is tied to their ability to access timely and productive educational opportunities. As such, he is dedicated to eliminating barriers to student success. He began his educational career as a teaching assistant in physics while he was an undergraduate. Then, just after graduating from UCLA, he worked for two years at a charter school in South Los Angeles, offering classes in biology, environmental science, and various other STEM topics.
Francis has found joy in helping others for as long as he can remember. Particularly given the fact that he is keenly aware of the obstacles that some students face, Francis believes that establishing a warm learning environment is crucial. Within such an environment, he posits, he and a student can build a trusting relationship that leads to open cooperation. He says, “I am patient and adapt to students' individual learning styles, and I make sure that I am not always the dominant voice in the room.” Indeed, he has noted, simple things like intentionally waiting for student responses and practicing non-invasive interventions allow students to develop and grow themselves, bolstered by his expertise and support.
Away from the classroom, Francis has always been an intrepid soul. At UCLA, he was a writer and sports editor for the Daily Bruin, helping his cohort to win the Best Online Sports Section award among all collegiate newspapers. As this accolade suggests, Francis is a bit of a sports junky; he played tennis and ran track in high school and loves watching sports to this day. He also likes to stay active by exploring the outdoors and traveling. Perhaps his most adventurous hobby, however, is skydiving: jumping out of planes helps fulfill his “work hard, play hard” mantra. All that said, when not hurtling toward the ground at 100 miles per hour or so, Francis does take time to have a relaxing hang with his cat, Nova.
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