Don't Just Hire Any Tutor: Here's What Gen Z Needs to Know

What to Look For in a Tutor (When You Just Want Help, Not Drama)

Okay, real talk. You’re drowning in schoolwork, your study apps are doing nothing, and ChatGPT can only get you so far. It’s time to bring in a tutor. But before you text that random person from a flyer or hit “book now” on some sketchy website, you need to know what actually makes a tutor worth your time.

Spoiler: it’s not just about how good they are at math or how many degrees they flex on their bio.

Here’s what to look for in a tutor who won’t leave you ghosted before midterms or make you feel dumb for asking questions. Because you deserve better.

1. Reliability > Genius

You could hire the smartest person in your class, but if they flake on sessions or always reschedule last minute, you’re going to be even more stressed. A great tutor isn’t just knowledgeable—they’re consistent.

Look for someone who:

• Shows up on time (and isn’t always “running 10 mins late”)
• Keeps track of your progress
• Doesn’t disappear the week before finals

You’re hiring help, not adding chaos. Reliability is non-negotiable.

2. You Should Actually Like Being Around Them

Your tutor doesn’t have to be your BFF, but you should at least vibe with them. If they’re condescending, super awkward, or just make you feel worse about yourself? That’s a red flag.

You want someone who:

• Explains stuff in a way that makes sense to you
• Doesn’t make you feel judged when you don’t get something
• Matches your energy (laid-back? high-energy? quiet but focused?)

This is especially true for Gen Z. We’ve grown up in a world where connection matters. A tutor who gets that will make studying feel way less painful.

3. Passion for Teaching, Not Just Knowing Stuff

Being smart ≠ being a good teacher.

Look for someone who clearly loves helping people learn. They’re patient. They’re pumped when you finally understand something. They’re not just showing off—they want you to grow.

Ask yourself:

• Do they get frustrated easily?
• Do they talk more than they listen?
• Are they just doing this for extra cash, or do they actually enjoy teaching?

If they treat tutoring like a chore, you’ll feel it. And you’ll dread your sessions.

4. Transparency with Pricing (Because No One Likes Awkward Money Talks)

It’s normal to not know what a “fair” price is at first. But don’t just go for the cheapest option—or the priciest. A good tutor will be up front about what they charge and what that includes.

Before you commit:

• Know their rate per hour and how long sessions are
• Ask about cancelation policies
• Get clear on what kind of prep or follow-up help they offer (do they send notes? offer mini refreshers between sessions?)

Paying a fair rate shows respect both ways. You’re more likely to get consistency and effort from someone who feels valued—not someone who’s counting down the minutes till your hour is up.

5. They Meet You Where You're At. Not Where They Think You Should Be.

A great tutor doesn’t assume you know stuff—or shame you when you don’t. They tailor everything to your learning style, your pace, and your actual goals.

Whether you're cramming for finals, trying to pass a class, or just brushing up before college apps, they should be on your team, not making you feel behind.

Signs they’re a good fit:

• They check in with how you're feeling about the material
• They offer different ways to explain things if you’re not getting it
• They build confidence, not pressure

6. They Make Studying Less Miserable

Let’s be real, no one wakes up excited for a tutoring session. But the right tutor makes it... not suck.

They might throw in some humor. They might remember your favorite TV show and use it in examples. They might text you quick tips before your test.

When studying feels less like punishment and more like progress, you’re more likely to stick with it—and that’s where the magic happens.

Pick Someone Who Makes You Feel Capable

Choosing a tutor is personal. It’s not about hiring the most impressive person on paper. It’s about finding someone who helps you actually believe in your ability to learn.

So before you spend money, check in with yourself. Do you feel supported? Understood? A little more confident than you did before?

That’s the tutor you want.

Stay sharp and stress-free with more learning hacks and Gen Z insights at Woke Waves Magazine.

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