Jonas Amaya

Biography

I grew up in San Francisco, where I am currently pursuing my Master of Arts in Philosophy at San Francisco State University, focusing on issues in the philosophy of mind, metaphysics, and epistemology. I recently completed my BA in Philosophy at UC Santa Cruz.

My interest in the mind naturally drew me to education. Throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, I have served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant in the Department of Philosophy at SFSU, a chess instructor at various local elementary schools, a fencing instructor at the Golden Gate Fencing Center, and a private piano teacher.

At AJ Tutoring, my focus is on K-8 academics and SAT test prep. My diverse coaching background has taught me one universal truth across all disciplines: with the right habits, every student is capable of improvement and excellence! My tutoring philosophy emphasizes the connection between habits and outcomes. I love helping students identify whether a current habit is helping or hurting them, and discovering new, structured routines that build lasting subject mastery, work ethic, and confidence. It is always rewarding to help a student shift from feeling overwhelmed to feeling fully empowered.

Outside of education and my academic research, I value quality time with my family. To stay active and balanced, I enjoy calisthenics and strength training, and I am an avid fan of the Bay Area’s live music scene.