Biography

I have always enjoyed mathematics and the sciences, and I was fortunate to have wonderful educational experiences in high school and at university, especially due to several teachers who were inspirational in their approach to the material. I decided to return to the education sector to pass on some of this inspiration and, in a small way, help address the demand for STEM education.

I was born and raised in Palo Alto, and I attended Stanford University, double-majored in mathematics and music, and earned a master’s degree in engineering (computer music). I also earned a doctorate in financial economics at Yale University.

I enjoy learning and helping others to learn to learn. I have been an adjunct professor in finance at the College of Business, San José State University. Highlights of this experience were seeing students develop a working understanding of ideas and hearing from them that my classes contributed to their success. One group of my students participated in and won an intercollegiate business challenge using skills taught in my classes, and I received a university-wide outstanding undergraduate instructor award from the students. I have also taught finance courses at Cal State University, Hayward.

The study of math in high school can provide a student with a foundation that extends well beyond the theorems and formulae presented in class. Math relies on basic principles of logic, abstract thinking, and critical thinking. These skills, in addition to the math itself, are important across many areas of study and careers, especially in STEM-related fields.

I started tutoring when I was asked by friends to tutor their children in math and science courses. Through these experiences and successes, I developed my tutoring goals: to help the student develop a focus on truly understanding the material; develop the ability to self-assess their understanding and progress; appreciate and recognize their own successes; enjoy learning the material and the learning process; develop skills to communicate their understanding of the material; and develop good and efficient learning practices and test taking habits. I believe when a student recognizes their improvement as direct result of their own efficiently applied effort, learning becomes easier and can even be fun!

A few interests that occupy my time are performing choral music, analyzing music, attending Stanford sports events, and doing volunteer work.