Alice Lieu

Ever since I can remember, I’ve been an avid reader and lover of both literature and writing. I went to Yale University where I earned my bachelor’s degree in English. While there, I bridged my academic interests and my family history to conduct literature research on Asian American immigrant experiences. In addition to working at AJ, I  also work as a case manager and counselor at an Asian community mental health center.

In my research, mental health, and tutoring work I find purpose in learning. I know that it was the the joyful vibrance of my mentors who modeled the importance of learning for learning’s sake. I try to do the same for my students.

As a first-generation college student who grew up in the Bay Area, I’m familiar with both the stress and value of education in a competitive environment. After pursuing a rigorous academic schedule in high school and scoring well on the SAT, my accomplishments opened doors I never knew existed. Early on, I realized I wanted to help others do the same, but with more confidence and support than I had.

My interest in tutoring and teaching started in high school. I tutored middle school students in various subjects and supported my peers in AP English as a TA for my teacher. During my time at Yale, I volunteered in a teaching program for middle school and high school students where I created a class to introduce them to war literature. I value tutoring and teaching as opportunities to help students turn pressure into fuel for growth; I provide both reassurance and challenges for them to go beyond what they think they can achieve.

I bring a mindful approach to supporting students by building their learning and testing skills, whether in their academic coursework or for the SAT. I’m especially keen on helping students excel in standardized testing without the unnecessary anxiety often present in our culture. AJ Tutoring’s one on one teaching space allows me to learn the unique ways each student thinks, so I can personalize my teaching style to connect with, and bring out the best, in them. I help students not only realize their academic potential but also experience the bigger picture of learning: it brings a plethora of freedoms later in life.

When I’m in the mood to relax, I enjoy spending time with my partner and our two cats. I also value practicing meditation and yoga, as well as watching films and T.V shows. When I need to give my eyes a break from the charming allure of screens, I like to take long walks in nature.