Evan Drake

Biography

I was born and raised in Cupertino, California, and graduated from California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo with a degree in Physics and minors in Mathematics and Astronomy. My academic journey taught me to embrace curiosity and resilience, lessons I now apply as an educator. Whether it was grappling with advanced theoretical concepts or tackling complex problem-solving tasks, my time at Cal Poly SLO gave me a deep appreciation for the value of persistence and creative thinking.

After college, I worked for over three years as a software engineer, specializing in computer vision applications. My role involved developing innovative solutions in microscopy for material and life sciences, a field that combined my technical expertise with my passion for research. While I enjoyed the intellectual challenges of engineering, I felt drawn to make a more direct impact in people’s lives, leading me to spend two years in the Philippines working with a non-profit organization at a university. There, I tutored students in Math, Science, and English and launched an annual introductory programming class to spark interest in coding. These experiences reinforced my love for teaching and my belief in the transformative power of education.

My interest in tutoring stems from a desire to empower students and help them achieve their goals by making learning accessible and enjoyable. I enjoy breaking down intimidating concepts into manageable steps and helping students discover the “aha!” moments that boost their confidence. I also understand the challenges of balancing academics with life’s demands, so I strive to create a supportive, encouraging environment where students feel empowered to succeed.

Over the years, I’ve gained a diverse range of teaching experiences, from tutoring elementary to university students in various subjects. Through these roles, I’ve learned to tailor my approach to each student’s unique needs, whether it’s building foundational skills, developing study strategies, or tackling advanced coursework. My philosophy is rooted in patience, adaptability, and fostering a genuine love for learning.

In my free time, I enjoy staying up to date on the latest developments in artificial intelligence, playing board games with friends, and binge-watching shows on Netflix. If I’m not doing any of those things, I’m probably getting a triple bogey at a local disc golf course.