University of Manchester BDS Student Offering Dentistry Interview Preparation (MMI & Panel) Online and In-Person.

Find out more about Sufyan

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

  I developed my interest in dentistry during sixth form while studying my A-levels. My interest in private tutoring grew while I was preparing for the dental school application process myself. I saw first-hand how valuable one-to-one support could be and how much a good tutor could improve my confidence, preparation and performance. That experience made me want to provide the same support to other applicants.
  
  At the same time, I felt there were still gaps in the way some tutoring was delivered. Feedback could sometimes be too general or vague. I believe I can offer a more direct, specific and personalised approach, adapting my guidance closely to each student’s individual strengths, weaknesses and circumstances.

• 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 students how to improve their UCAT performance and prepare effectively for dentistry interviews. A major focus of my teaching is deliberate practice, because consistent, targeted practice is usually the most effective way to improve.
  
  I also place strong emphasis on helping students understand exactly where they are performing well and where they are making mistakes. By making feedback specific rather than vague, students can focus their time on the areas that will make the greatest difference and improve more efficiently.

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

  One of my role models is Elon Musk because of his emphasis on hard work and first-principles thinking. I applied this mindset when preparing for my own UCAT and dentistry interviews by focusing on the end goal, identifying what was actually required to succeed, and then working backwards to improve each specific weakness. I now use the same approach with my students by focusing on the outcome they want, identifying the most important steps needed to reach it, and helping them improve as efficiently as possible.
  
  I also believe empathy is essential in tutoring, and in that respect my mother is an important role model. She has shown me how to be firm and honest while still being encouraging, supportive and motivating. I try to bring that same balance into my teaching.

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

  A good tutor must first be empathetic and take the time to understand the student’s exact situation. This means identifying their specific strengths, weaknesses, obstacles and goals without making assumptions. Tutoring should be the opposite of a one-size-fits-all approach; it should be adapted as closely as possible to the individual student.
  
  A good tutor must also be able to explain ideas clearly. Even strong advice is useless if the student cannot understand it or apply it.
  
  Finally, I believe charisma and encouragement are important. When students feel more confident and positive about tackling a challenge, they are more likely to practise consistently, work hard and make meaningful improvement.

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

  When I first applied to dental school, I achieved an average UCAT score and was unsuccessful in my interviews. I decided to try again, changed the way I prepared, achieved an excellent UCAT score and received offers from every interview I attended.
  
  That experience taught me that improvement is not simply about working harder, but about identifying exactly what is going wrong and changing your approach. I now use what I learned to help students avoid the mistakes I made and focus on the changes that make the greatest difference.

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

  One of the main challenges of dental school is balancing the workload with your personal life. There is a large amount of content to learn and work to complete, which can mean sacrificing time with friends and having less free time than others. This can be difficult, but it has taught me the importance of discipline, organisation and using my time effectively.

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

  I am passionate about learning and continually finding better ways to improve. I enjoy reading books and researching new ideas, techniques and practical tips online, particularly those related to performance, learning and personal development. This curiosity also helps me improve my tutoring and discover better ways to support students. Outside of studying and teaching, I am passionate about playing football, which has taught me the importance of discipline, consistency and teamwork.

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

  What makes me a Superprof is the care I take to understand each student as an individual. I consider where they are currently, what they want to achieve, the obstacles they face, and the specific areas in which they need support. I then tailor my approach around those factors rather than using the same method for everyone.
  
  I also place great importance on building rapport and creating a genuine human connection. This makes tutoring more enjoyable, comfortable and effective for both the student and me. I am honest and firm when necessary, but always constructive, encouraging and motivating. My aim is to help students feel supported while still giving them the clear and specific guidance they need to improve.