In the quest for excellence in education, parents seeking top-tier opportunities for their children turn to dedicated professionals. Dr. Georgiana Popovici, with a Ph.D. in Mathematics and a research background, has been at the forefront of this educational endeavor for over 20 years. At her center, students prepare for international exams like A-Level, SAT, GMAT, and the IB, engaging in hundreds of hours of mathematical learning.
Dr. Popovici, what does excellence in mathematics mean to you, and how do you bring students closer to this subject?
Excellence in mathematics is about making the subject accessible and engaging. My approach combines patience, a love for the subject, and innovative teaching methods to make mathematics appealing and understandable.
With your extensive experience, what strategies do you employ to motivate students and achieve high performance?
Curiosity about the world is inherent in every student. By relating mathematics to real-life scenarios and encouraging exploration, I aim to demystify the subject. Building confidence through patience and passion, and incorporating play into learning, are key to engaging students with mathematics deeply.
What motivated you to establish the Excellence in Education Centre for international exams preparation?
Recognizing a gap in the educational system, I founded the center in 2019 to provide a structured and supportive environment for students. The goal is to bridge knowledge gaps and prepare students thoroughly for international exams, moving away from informal tutoring to a more professional and recognized approach.
Can you explain the differences between the international exams you prepare students for?
The SAT, A-level, and GMAT exams are essential for students aiming to study abroad, each with its focus. The SAT assesses academic abilities for U.S. and Italian university admissions. The A-level, prevalent in the UK, involves written exams in selected subjects. The GMAT is tailored for business studies admissions, testing verbal, mathematical, and analytical skills.
How do you perceive the future of Romanian students studying abroad? Are they reaching their full potential?
There has always been a strong pool of talented students in Romania. Through dedicated preparation, I’ve seen students achieve remarkable results, such as securing the highest A-level score globally. My work focuses on unlocking their potential, emphasizing critical thinking and a deep understanding of mathematics and statistics.
You advocate for formal recognition of tutoring through fiscal receipts. Why is this important?
Promoting transparency and professionalism in education is crucial. By formalizing tutoring, we uphold the integrity of the teaching profession and ensure a structured approach to learning. This also reflects my commitment to doing things correctly and with discipline.
How do you incorporate real-life examples into your teaching, and why is this approach effective?
Using everyday examples is essential for making mathematics relatable. From simple calculations in daily shopping to understanding geometric principles in design and architecture, these examples help students see the relevance of mathematics in their lives. Celebrating Pi Day with π-shaped cakes and contests is just one way we make learning fun and memorable.
What are your future aspirations in the field of mathematics and education?
My dream is to open a private school in a rural area of Romania, bringing quality education to students in less accessible regions and fostering a closer connection with nature. Meanwhile, I continue to passionately teach in Bucharest, helping students achieve their aspirations and maximize their potential.
Dr. Georgiana Popovici’s commitment to excellence in mathematics education highlights the importance of passion, innovation, and dedication in teaching. By fostering a deep love and understanding of the subject, she prepares students not just for exams, but for a future where mathematics plays a vital role in their lives and careers.