What might you do in a typical first session with a student?

Let the student guide me through their thoughts and ideas regarding the current subject and problems. Only then could I understand where a student has an error in thinking or understanding.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Mathematics is a logical subject founded upon rules. If a student first understands the rules then they will have tools by which to think.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Understand that mathematics is hard and complicated. Every other science-based subject is derived from math. With that in mind, know that every new math concept learned is another tool that can be used in a science-based subject.