Biography

I’ve always had a love for teaching, which started early when I pretended to be a teacher, helping my grandmother learn Spanish. Born and raised in El Centro, CA, I later moved to San Diego, where I earned dual degrees in Physiology & Neuroscience and Language Studies—French from the University of California, San Diego. Throughout my life, I’ve been driven by a passion for learning and a desire to share that knowledge, especially with students from underserved communities.

During my time at UCSD, I developed an interest in neurolinguistics, biology, and computer science. These subjects inspired me to pursue a Full-Stack Web Development certificate, which has helped me integrate technology into my teaching. I also worked as a medical interpreter, which gave me the opportunity to help bridge communication gaps in healthcare settings, and I have volunteered with organizations like the Flying Samaritans, providing essential medical care to communities in Ensenada, Mexico.

Tutoring has always been a way for me to test my own knowledge and pass on what I’ve learned. I’ve tutored with AVID for over two and a half years, mentored with SENDforC for two years, and offered my tutoring services through MAPS Club and HPREP. I also enjoy working with students preparing for standardized tests like the SAT and ACT, focusing on science, French, Spanish, and Biology. My teaching approach revolves around scaffolding and asking lots of questions to keep students engaged and actively participating in their own learning process. I find that guiding students to work through problems themselves, rather than simply providing answers, helps them gain a deeper understanding of the material.

What excites me most about tutoring is witnessing those “eureka” moments when everything clicks for my students. I believe that building rapport is key to fostering a productive learning environment, and I strive to create tailored sessions that meet each student’s unique needs. Outside of tutoring, I enjoy programming, learning the guitar, and practicing Judo and Taekwondo. I’m thrilled to bring my diverse experiences and enthusiasm for learning to AJ Tutoring, where I look forward to helping students achieve their academic goals.