At Learnmate, we’re proud to showcase the incredible tutors who bring energy, empathy, and expertise into every lesson on Learnmate. In this edition of Meet Our Tutors, we introduce Shanza, a passionate tutor currently studying Law and Arts at Monash University. With a major in Sociology and a deep interest in empowering others through knowledge, Shanza is helping students navigate complex concepts with clarity, confidence, and care. From students in Primary School to VCE, HSC and IB Psychology, English, Business Management and Health, Shanza tutors the lot!
1. Tell us a little about yourself, including your teaching philosophy, personality, and how you connect with students.
Hi! My name is Shanza and I’m currently studying Law and Arts, majoring in Sociology, at Monash University. I’ve always been deeply curious about the structures that shape society and how knowledge can empower individuals. This curiosity translates into my tutoring style, where I focus on making complex concepts accessible and engaging for students.
I would describe myself as a patient, empathetic, and enthusiastic tutor. My approach to teaching is student-centred—I take the time to understand each student's learning style, strengths, and challenges. I aim to create a safe and encouraging environment where questions are welcomed, mistakes are seen as part of growth, and every lesson feels like a step forward in their learning journey.
2. What inspired you to become a tutor/teacher? What do you enjoy the most about it?
My inspiration to become a tutor comes from my own schooling experience. During Year 12, I found the support of dedicated tutors and teachers to be truly invaluable. They helped me turn confusion into confidence, and stress into strategy. That’s the same experience I now aim to offer my students.
What I enjoy most about tutoring is witnessing that “lightbulb moment” when a student finally grasps a concept that once felt impossible. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know I’m helping students build not only academic skills but also confidence and resilience.
3. How do you adapt your teaching approach to meet the unique needs of each student? What strategies do you use to make lessons effective and engaging?
Each student learns differently, so I tailor my lessons based on their goals, challenges, and preferred learning styles. For visual learners, I use diagrams and colour-coded notes. For others, I integrate discussions, analogies, or step-by-step breakdowns.
I also provide curated resources—unit summaries, practice questions, and personalised feedback—and offer support outside of sessions. By keeping lessons interactive and adaptive, I make sure students stay engaged and can apply what they’ve learned with confidence.
4. Can you share a story about a student you helped to overcome challenges or achieve a significant goal? What was the outcome, and how did you support them?
I once worked with a Year 12 student who was struggling with VCE Psychology and had lost a lot of confidence. They were scoring low on practice exams and felt overwhelmed by the content. Together, we broke down each topic into manageable parts, created a clear revision schedule, and focused on exam technique—especially how to interpret and answer high-mark questions.
Over time, their scores steadily improved, and they ended up achieving a study score they were proud of. Beyond the academic results, the most rewarding part was seeing them believe in their ability again.
5. What advice do you have for students who are struggling to stay motivated or overcome academic challenges?
Firstly, know that it’s okay to feel stuck—progress isn’t always linear. My biggest piece of advice is to focus on consistency over perfection. Small, steady efforts every day build momentum.
Secondly, break your goals into smaller, achievable tasks, and celebrate each win along the way. If you’re struggling, ask for help—it’s a strength, not a weakness. The right support can make a huge difference in turning frustration into progress!
6. What can families expect from you if they engage you as their tutor?
Families can expect a tutor who is dedicated, approachable, and highly invested in their child’s academic success. I offer structured yet flexible lessons that align with the student’s curriculum, combined with tailored resources and actionable feedback.
I’m also available to support students outside of lesson hours for quick questions or check-ins. My goal is to not just help students succeed in their subjects, but to build their confidence and independent learning skills as well.
Looking for a dedicated tutor like Shanza?
Shanza is ready to help students thrive in Sociology, Psychology, and beyond with personalised support, engaging lessons, and a genuine passion for teaching.
🔎 Check out her profile on Learnmate and book a session today! (Subject to availability.)
Or browse more expert tutors on Learnmate to find the perfect match for your learning needs.
