Biography

I grew up in San Jose and went to Seattle University for college, where I completed degrees in philosophy and computer science. I learned a lot from both disciplines—philosophy made me a stronger reader and writer, and computer science helped me find my love for math. While I always loved writing essays, I never thought of myself as a math person until college, when I started studying applied versions of the subject, like physics and logic. I enjoy helping my students experience that same shift in attitude in any subject, that lightbulb moment of “Hey, I’m actually pretty good at this!”

Previously, I’ve taught science labs at The Tech Interactive in downtown San Jose to kids of all ages, been a teaching assistant for middle school computer science with the Silicon Valley Education Foundation, and worked as a lead instructor with Camp Galileo, teaching art, robotics, and woodworking. I also currently volunteer with the San Jose Public Library, tutoring technology help. My varied experiences have left me with a wealth of creative ideas for how to make learning fun, and I love incorporating them into my work with students.

My goal as a teacher is to empower students. I want them to feel capable and confident tackling challenges that come their way. I also want students to learn not just which equation to use, but also how to be resilient and curious learners. I love tailoring sessions to students’ interests, and I see our work together as collaborative. Ultimately, I came to tutoring because building individual relationships is important to me; tutoring allows me to engage with each student as a whole person.

My hobbies include making zines, writing essays, and drawing my friends and family.