Amber Kahklen

Biography

Growing up in Juneau, Alaska, I developed a love for science, math, and problem-solving through my high school STEM classes and involvement in robotics. I also worked as a camp counselor at robotics and fine arts camps, where I discovered how much I enjoyed helping children learn new skills and overcome challenges. One of my favorite parts was seeing their excitement when they finally solved a difficult problem on their own. Although I enjoyed STEM subjects, math didn’t always come easily to me. AP Calculus BC was one of the most challenging classes I took in high school, and that experience helped me understand how frustrating and intimidating a difficult subject can feel.

My interest in STEM led me to Arizona State University, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in Computer Systems Engineering, followed by a master’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Oregon State University. Throughout college, I developed new approaches to learning that helped me tackle challenging subjects, including the calculus concepts I had once struggled with. During graduate school, some of my most valuable learning experiences came from study groups, where my classmates and I explored different ways to approach problems and explained difficult concepts to one another. I also completed several IT internships, where I discovered that my favorite part of technical problem-solving was working directly with people. Finding a solution was rewarding, but helping someone understand a problem well enough to solve it independently was even more fulfilling.

These experiences have shaped my approach to tutoring. I believe building confidence starts with understanding how each student thinks and learns, recognizing what they already know, and helping them build on that foundation. I encourage students to explain their reasoning and ask questions so I can identify where they may be struggling and adapt my approach to their individual needs. My goal is to create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable working through challenges and celebrating the small victories that lead to deeper understanding.

I’m especially excited to tutor precalculus and calculus because of the connections these subjects have to so many other fields and real-world applications. Having experienced firsthand how challenging calculus can be, I hope to make it feel less intimidating while helping students discover just how interesting and useful it can be.

Outside of tutoring, I enjoy reading science fiction and fantasy, exploring new crafts and creative projects, and playing video games.