Mahir

My past experience

Taught PhD students advanced chemistry laboratory techniques at university as part of my PhD. For example, I guided a PhD student step by step to understand how to use the advanced electrochemical nanopipette method, SECCM. I also explained how to use the ElectraSyn 2.0 to synthesise materials with electrochemistry, using very precise details and instructions. I ensured a highly constructive experience. She learned how to use both the SECCM and ElectraSyn 2.0 as a result.

Volunteered to help students near Sheffield with mole calculations for A level chemistry at a college, explaining in a simple manner, using chemical equations and stoichiometry. This involved patience and trying to explain in terms of single molecules instead of using the more abstract term ‘mole’, so that the concept could be grasped more simply. The students enjoyed the session and were much more adept at mole calculations at the end, often a problem topic for many students.

Taught a class in writing CVs as a volunteer in Derby: I was able to thoroughly and simply explain how CVs should be written and had excellent feedback from the teacher. I ensured good engagement by selling the fact that CVs can be enjoyable to write through understanding that it is an opportunity to sell one’s skills and achievements, using the ‘STAR’ structure and getting students to write multiple STAR structures on whiteboards. I engaged positively with students and made sure everyone was happy, ensuring everyone was contributing constructive ideas towards CV writing.

Helped at a secondary school in Sheffield with Maths classes, guiding students step by step through problems such as teaching directions such as ‘NSEW’, for example using the mnemonic ‘never eat shredded wheat’ to make it easier to remember such directions. I built an excellent rapport with students and I had a very constructive and enjoyable session, and students were able to overcome difficult concepts.

Did virtual job interviews in Derbyshire, doing pretend interviews with students and guiding them how to give the best possible answers to ensure excellent interview answers. I brought the concept down to earth by explaining how jobs involve skills and why it is important to demonstrate how you achieved your skills in an interview. I used the example of the England goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, who uses his excellent motivation and focus to save difficult shots, and him gaining those skills through intense practice and training. The interview practice was highly fruitful for all students.