My affinity for language studies has presented many opportunities that have carried me across the globe. At seventeen years old, I was one of twelve students awarded a nation-wide scholarship to study Persian in Tajikistan. At twenty, I spent eight months in Ecuador perfecting my Spanish and studying volcanoes. This passion for language flowered into a BA in Spanish and Chemistry (with a focus in biochemistry) at Willamette University.
While my education in world languages has broadened my understanding of the world on a macroscopic level, my studies in chemistry have granted me access to the sub-microscopic world of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Chemistry is a field in which the most successful people – the Nobel Laureates and cancer researchers – are the ones who never stop asking questions. The same is true for students in introductory chemistry classes. By repeatedly asking the question “why?”, I work with students to reinforce their knowledge of fundamental principles while making broader connections between them.
As a student who excelled in science, math, reading, and writing, I was frequently asked throughout high school and college to explain complex topics to my peers. As a student with a learning disability, I developed techniques to help myself study more effectively. Through these personal experiences, I have learned to cultivate the unique abilities of my students to help them succeed in an academic environment and effectively prepare for standardized tests. I find that the 1-on-1 tutoring atmosphere at AJ is ideal for tailoring each lesson to fit the individual learning style of my student.
In my spare time I enjoy hiking, reading, and cooking. I also enjoy playing the cello, doing puzzles, and visiting new places!