Siddhi Surawkar

Where do you attend school, and what what are you studying?

Johns Hopkins University (Public Health & Natural Sciences). I conduct public health research, volunteer with the Science Olympiad, and write for the undergraduate medical journal, among other volunteer and research positions. I was a national medalist in debate, 7x State Medalist for Science Olympiad, and medalist in Speech competitions in high school. I also am a 2024 National Merit Scholarship Recipient.

What have your teaching opportunities been outside of Fairfax Collegiate?

I have coached speech, debate and Science Olympiad competitors for several years. I also have tutored science and English for K-12 students as well as been a teaching assistant for college courses. I also have run workshops for K-12 students in several health-related subjects. Additionally, I teach neuroscience, brain health, and about dementia to K-12 students, including leading dissections and activities.

What sort of experience have you had in the subject you’ll be teaching this summer?

I have completed neuroscience, anatomy, and biology courses at Johns Hopkins University. I also conduct medical and public health research and am on the Executive Board for the Hippocrates Medical Review. I also have completed college calculus and linear algebra courses and have a strong background in math competitions. I was a national debate medalist and competed and captained several speech and debate styles.

What excites you about teaching and working with students?

I want to help others explore new subjects in a safe environment that allows them to make mistakes and take risks so that they can open doors they might not have previously even noticed. I aim to make the subjects I teach engaging and directly applicable to the students so that the learning becomes something they want to do. I hope to build a welcoming community in the classroom that can provide both encouragement and helpful feedback.

Outside of work, what are some hobbies you enjoy?

I love hiking and reading. I also love trying new activities and restaurants in my hometown and college city (especially if the place has boba).