As a Bay Area native, I absolutely loved growing up in a diverse area with so many opportunities. I attended Boise State University in Idaho and received my bachelor’s in mathematics with a secondary education emphasis through the IDoTeach program, an inquiry-based STEM teacher preparation program. I had the opportunity to work as a tutor at my college’s Math Learning Center, and after graduation I moved back to the Bay Area to begin my career teaching 6th, 7th, and 8th grade math. 

My favorite thing about teaching is being able to see the difference I am making when students demonstrate progress, develop more positive mindsets, and become more confident. I like to share with my students that in middle school I was actually taken out of advanced math in the middle of a school year because I was not doing well enough. Then, by developing better habits and practices through high school, I went on to complete an entire mathematics degree. I think that really shows how much we can continue to grow and change!

One of the advantages of 1-on-1 tutoring is that I can explain concepts and ideas in different ways until I find the one that makes sense for the student. I always look forward to finding and demonstrating effective study habits and building the skills students will need to succeed throughout their studies. 

At AJ Tutoring, I specialize in preparing students for the SAT and ACT. I enjoy helping students break down questions to understand the underlying skills being tested, develop critical reasoning skills, and understand the expectations of the test. Even in the reading and language sections, the test is following a set of rules, and the right approach can help students succeed.

When not working with fantastic students, I love being outdoors. I enjoy camping, hiking, and exploring the National Parks.