Desiree

Certified Tutor

I have always been passionate about helping students because I believe that education has the power to shape lives and open doors to countless opportunities. My diverse career path, from structural engineering to product design, has shown me how the principles of problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking are not confined to any single field. I am excited to bring these skills into my tutoring work, helping students not only master academic concepts but also develop the confidence and curiosity to tackle challenges both inside and outside the classroom.

I hold a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Cornell University and a master's degree in civil engineering from Columbia University. After completing my education, I worked as a structural engineer for several years, designing the infrastructure of low to mid-rise buildings. While this experience honed my technical problem-solving skills, I found myself drawn to a more creative, hands-on role, which led me to transition into product design. Over the past few years as a product designer, I've learned how to merge user-centered design principles with engineering to create innovative solutions. This combination of analytical thinking and creativity is something I aim to bring into my tutoring sessions, helping students find both structure and creative freedom in their learning.

I enjoy working with students in math, particularly in algebra, geometry, and problem-solving. I enjoy breaking down complex concepts into manageable, understandable steps, much like I did as an engineer when tackling difficult design problems. What I love most about tutoring math is that there's always a clear, logical solution but the path to get there can be unique for each student. This problem-solving process is something I enjoy guiding students through, and I'm always thrilled when they experience those "aha!" moments when everything clicks.

My teaching philosophy centers around a student-driven approach. I believe that every student can succeed when they are given the right tools, support, and encouragement. As a tutor, I aim to create an environment where students feel safe to ask questions, explore ideas, and embrace mistakes as part of the learning process. I believe that learning should be an interactive, engaging experience that encourages critical thinking and curiosity. Whether through step-by-step problem-solving or creative hands-on activities, I work to make each session not just informative, but enjoyable and empowering.

In terms of my tutoring style, I strive to be both patient and adaptable, meeting each student where they are. I understand that everyone learns differently, and I am committed to adjusting my methods to fit each student's unique needs and learning style. Whether I'm using visual aids, real-world examples, or interactive exercises, my goal is to help students not only understand the material but also feel confident in their ability to apply it on their own.

Outside of tutoring, I have a variety of interests that allow me to bring a well-rounded perspective to my work. I love reading to expand my knowledge and stay intellectually curious, and I'm passionate about baking, drawing, and painting, which allow me to explore my creative side. I also enjoy traveling, as it gives me the opportunity to experience new cultures and perspectives, and interior design, which taps into my sense of aesthetics and space. These hobbies help me stay inspired, creative, and connected to different ways of thinking, qualities that I believe are important in both design and teaching.

Ultimately, I'm motivated by the opportunity to help students build their confidence and foster a lifelong love of learning. By combining my engineering background, design experience, and passion for teaching, I hope to inspire students to see learning as both a challenge and an adventure. I look forward to helping students unlock their potential and achieve their goals, whatever they may be.