I have a PhD in Political Science from Victoria University in Wellington, New Zealand. Can teach at Undergraduate or Postgraduate level in political science or international relations. Am based in Wel

Learn more about Micheal

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

  I have always been passionate about political science and international relations. Comparative politics is something I developed an interest in when I started at Victoria University in Wellington in 2005. Throughout my undergraduate and post graduate studies I taught at Victoria University. I absolutely loved working with students to help them achieve their goals. I have always had good mentors throughout my academic career and I am passionate about helping others to achieve their goals.

• 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 political science and international relations. These topics are so integral to our day to day lives. Everything we do involves a political decision. The roads we drive on here given approval by politicians and our ability to freely move globally is decided by governments.
  I tend to focus on comparative politics and international relations and have a real passion to help students to articulate their thoughts and ideas in a structured manner.

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

  I have had many role models throughout my academic career. My PhD supervisor Dr Jon Johansson was one such teacher who has always inspired me to think broadly and challenge the status quo. Jon has been hugely influential and on this journey has become a good mate.

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

  There are many, including being patient and organised. Responding to the students need in a timely manner and having the ability to ask the right questions to get the student to think and formulate their ideas in a structured manner is very important.

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

  I went to University originally to become a History and Geography Teacher. However I attended a first year political science lecturer by Jon Johansson (my mentor mentioned above) and my eyes were opened to the idea of political science and my career trajectory changed in an instance. That's the power of good teachers.

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

  I completed my Masters and PhD while working full time. This was a real challenge and the best way to overcome this is to be highly organised.

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

  My passion is people. I love helping people to reach their goals. I enjoy mentoring others to help them be their best.

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

  My passion and focus on supporting students by asking them the right questions to help them be there very best!