PrepNow Tutor - Austin R.
Philosophy instructor Austin will discuss anything with anyone. He particularly loves trying to answer questions that don’t seem to have an easy answer, which is why he loves teaching philosophy. He also prides himself on being a patient and understanding person. Austin graduated cum laude from Tulane University with a bachelor’s in political economy. He briefly worked as a paralegal before enrolling in Georgia State University for his graduate degree. Austin first earned a master’s in philosophy and is currently studying social studies education for a master’s in teaching. After graduation, he plans on teaching high school history and economics.
“I never matured more as a student than in the transition between merely taking classes and teaching them,” Austin says of teaching philosophy classes. Students often think they’ve learned a concept or skill because they read the definition or have seen it demonstrated. This approach falls apart on exam day when their understanding is exposed as shallow. “I encourage students to think through the difference between merely regurgitating a concept and being able to explain it to others, as a sort of test to make sure they really possess a skill or understand a concept.” Austin also uses this as a guide while tutoring because it helps both him and the student figure out which exact concepts the student doesn’t understand yet.
As a teacher, Austin’s proudest moment was during final exams when a student stayed late to thank him. The student had been struggling early on in the semester, but improved after coming to office hours. The student wasn’t proud of their exam score and final grade—though both were excellent—but of their understanding from Austin that asking for help could make such a difference.
As a high school student, Austin played football. He also was a member of history club and Model UN. In college, he served as editor of the school paper. These days, he spends his time reading, listening to music, and playing guitar and piano. He still loves sports and follows both the NBA and NFL
Fun fact: Austin takes notes longhand and was frustrated that his left-handedness resulted in smudged notes. To address this, he developed the habit of writing right to left with his letters reversed!
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