Appreciation for Tom Silldorff, the Acclaimed Organs Chemistry Expert: Discussions on Anxiety, Setbacks, and the Aesthetics of Organic Chemistry - Part 1
In the second part of our interview series on student life at Princeton, we speak with Tom Silldorff, a graduating senior, Organic Chemistry (ORGO) Teaching Assistant, research assistant at the Sorenson Lab, and Residential College Advisor at New College West (NCW).
Tom shares his insights from tutoring ORGO students, providing valuable advice for those who find the course challenging. Here are the key takeaways from his approach:
Key Takeaways from Tutoring Organic Chemistry Students:
- Conceptual Understanding Over Memorization Tom emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying concepts rather than rote memorization. With a deep understanding, problem-solving becomes more intuitive.
- Active Learning and Practice Consistent practice through problem-solving is vital. Working through problems, drawing mechanisms, and self-testing help reinforce learning.
- Breaking Down Complex Problems Tom advises breaking problems into smaller, manageable steps. Focusing on the flow of electrons and the logic behind each step can help avoid confusion.
- Utilizing Office Hours and Peer Support Seeking help early is crucial. Discussing difficulties with professors during office hours, study groups, or tutoring can help clarify misunderstandings.
- Managing Time and Avoiding Cramming Organic Chemistry demands steady study over time. Spaced repetition helps with retention and reduces anxiety around exams.
How Students Struggling with Academic Pressure in Organic Chemistry Can Make the Best of Their Experience:
- Shift Perspective to a Growth Mindset Rather than fearing failure, see challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Struggling is natural and part of mastering a difficult subject.
- Develop a Structured Study Schedule Break study sessions into focused, manageable blocks. Consistent daily study reduces pressure and allows for continual progress.
- Focus on Understanding, Not Just Grades Prioritize learning over perfection. Celebrate small wins and conceptual breakthroughs to stay motivated.
- Practice Self-Care and Stress Management Balance studies with adequate sleep, exercise, and relaxation techniques to maintain mental health.
- Seek Support and Use Available Resources Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Utilize tutoring services, study groups, and mental health resources to build a support network.
- Reflect on Mistakes and Adjust Strategies Review tests and problem sets to identify where you struggled. Tailor your study approach accordingly, focusing on weak spots.
By integrating these approaches, students can transform their Organic Chemistry experience from a source of overwhelming pressure into a challenging but rewarding journey of intellectual growth.
Tom's motivation for teaching Organic Chemistry comes from his ability to help students with their mindset and approach to the class. The Princeton Perspectives Project (PPP) is collaborating with an unspecified entity to explore the concept of "effortless perfection" in the context of the research process and learning a new subject.
During exam weeks, Tom hosts tutoring sessions for upwards of 50 hours per week in the Choi Dining Hall (Yeh/NCW). He encourages students to remember that the professors running Organic Chemistry want to see them succeed and have a progressive grading policy.
This article is part of a seasonal series on "Effortless Perfection" at Princeton.
In the realm of education-and-self-development, Tom recommends independent work through consistent practice and active learning, particularly in online-education platforms, as a method to master difficult subjects like Organic Chemistry. Furthermore, Tom's insights posit self-care, stress management, and seeking support as essential elements in promoting a healthy and fruitful learning environment.
