I love an academic challenge, and I am enthusiastic about education and working with students to help them accomplish their academic goals. I was born and raised in San Jose and graduated from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., where I received my B.A. in sociology with minors in Spanish and theology. I then received my M.T.S. from Harvard University, concentrating on religion, ethics, and politics. 

In each of my academic experiences, I explored creative ways to approach new or difficult concepts, learning from examples both inside and outside of the classroom. As such, I enjoy helping my students channel their creative energies, finding the strategies and techniques that work best for them. I have learned that being well organized and well prepared are fundamental aspects of academic success.

I have enjoyed working as a teaching assistant both in the United States and abroad, as well as working as an academic tutor through my undergraduate university. I have taught large classes, led small discussion groups, and worked 1-on-1 with students. I believe in educating from a growth mindset approach, which encourages creativity, hard work, and perseverance when learning. I see this approach embodied in something my favorite teacher used to say: her favorite word in the English language was “yet” because it opened up space for possibility. For example, “I don’t understand this concept yet, but I can, and I will.” No subject, topic, or concept is too difficult to learn or understand with the right amount of effort and support.

I enjoy working 1-on-1 with students, as I am able to learn more of their strengths and their areas for growth in order to tailor each lesson to their individual needs. I greatly enjoy working with K-8 students on a number of subjects, including mathematics and English Language Arts enrichment. Elementary and middle school is a wonderful time to get excited about school and learning, and I love creating environments for my students to be curious and grapple with topics they may not understand yet but soon will. I also love helping students hone their study skills. Additionally, as an AP Scholar with Distinction, I enjoy working with students at the AP level in Spanish. In addition to getting a high score on the AP test, my goal is to help students feel comfortable speaking, reading, and writing in Spanish.

Outside of the office, I delight in roaming the aisles of bookstores, listening to podcasts, watching sports of all kinds, and enjoying all things tea and chocolate!