Award-Winning Tutors from Duke University

I have a life-long love of learning, which I Iove to share with others. I have a B.A. in Psychology from the University of South Florida, and two master's degrees in religion from Duke University. I have thirteen years of full-time teaching experience. I can provide tutoring in English, Reading, History, Geography, Government and Politics, and Religious Studies. On the elementary and middle school levels, I can also provide tutoring in Math and Science. I believe that all students have the potential to learn, and I am excited to play a role in helping students achieve their learning potential.

I am committed to each and every one of my tutees! I will teach to the best of my abilities; I will make learning fun, but efficient!

I've been teaching throughout high school. I used to volunteer every Sunday at my local temple as a teacher's assistant for the coding class. I also taught summer camp at a coding school for 3 weeks every year. I really enjoy working with students 1-on-1 to help them understand material to the fullest and love learning. I am experienced in math, biology, chemistry, English, French, and standardized testing. I look forward to working with you!

I am a graduate of Duke University( undergrad) where I majored in Philosophy and minored in Theater Studies. During my summers in college, I worked with EducationUSA Nairobi, an advising center for Kenyan students who wish to pursue higher education in the US. When I worked for them, I tutored high school graduates on SAT stuff and also helped them write better personal statements. After graduating from Duke last year, I started tutoring high school students in my neighborhood. I mainly taught math subjects such as Pre-Algebra, Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Trigonometry, Geometry, Basic Math and Problem Solving but I'm well versed in Reading and Writing subjects as well. I'm vastly experienced and very patient with all my students. In my free time I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking etc.

I am a rising junior at Duke University pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy Studies. Over the course of my studies, I have developed an extreme interest in education policy. I’ve had the great opportunity to work with the BOOST program at Duke University to use science and technology to inspire economically challenged and underrepresented students in Durham’s public schools. Although I am capable of tutoring a wide variety of subjects, I am most passionate about English and writing. In addition to my major, I’m pursuing minors in English and History, for I consider the arts and humanities to be a crucial part of a holistic and fun education. I’m a kind and easygoing person who relates well to others. In addition to being a tutor for students, I plan on being a mentor; I plan on being someone that students can turn to for advice on admissions, college life, and more. At Duke, I’m an active member of many organizations, including social life, a cappella, and political clubs. In my free time, I enjoy reading, exercising, cooking, singing, and spending time with friends.

Besides my mother, my daughters and my late wife, I consider my best teachers (the greatest influences in my life) to have come from Bunny Land A-Cat-A-Me, Johnston Middle School, Bellaire High, Duke University, Stanford Law School and the Vancouver Film School. They pushed, inspired and taught me in richly different ways. They lead me to find joy in knowledge and fluency, in the process fanning a non-stop yearning to learn and to share.I have tutored Advanced Placement students, executives changing careers, and those who believe they can do better academically or on achievement tests. I have instructed lawyers on contemporary legal issues, taught middle and high school students how to craft screenplays, and coached law students in mock trial competitions and middle school basketball teams. I enjoy working with students on French, writing skills, essay editing, American History, LSAT prep, middle school math, geography, government and organizational skills.I treat each student individually, and tailor our sessions to his or her learning styles, and aspirations (and of course, those of their parents). If, as a team, we can achieve the goals we set, and enhance the student's enjoyment and mastery of their unique learning process, I will have done my job.

I'm a recent college graduate (and future medical student) who's excited to meet you and help you reach your learning goals.I first became interested in tutoring when I struggled my freshman year at Duke University. Previously unchallenged, I had to work hard to teach myself difficult topics and relied heavily on the free tutoring available at my school to make it through.After that year, I worked in South Carolina at a nonprofit where I designed and taught curriculum for kids ages 5-18 years old and learned a lot about what it takes to be a teacher/tutor. I built and evaluated Reading and Math curricula and helped students develop confidence in a range of subjects from Math to Writing composition.I loved the experience and returned to Duke, where as soon as I finished my science requirements, I applied to be a peer tutor. From there, I gained three years of experience tutoring Organic Chemistry, Physics, and other science topics and proofreading others' essays on the side.I love building others' confidence and helping people master subjects that have given them trouble. I've been there, and I know that having a good tutor to guide you through can make a world of difference.

Hi everyone, my name is Jason! I have been a tutor or in teaching for the past six years, beginning as a tutor for elementary school students in mathematics and eventually teaching science enrichment and after school programs in high school. After finishing college, I became an adjunct lecturer where I taught introductory college biology, and found a passion for teaching the sciences. Finding the right support and mentorship can be the key to unlocking success, and I hope to do so for you all!

I am a 7-12 certified middle school History teacher. I also am on the premedical track. I have a major in History and minors in Biology/Chemistry from Duke University.I love teaching and firmly believe in the potential of every student. I utilize an uplifting teaching model that empowers students to not only learn the material, but be confident in their knowledge.I have over 8 years of teaching and tutoring experience in a variety of subjects. I have served as a mentor for the Durham Children's initiative, working to build an educational pipeline to college for underserved students. I currently tutor Chemistry, General Science, Math, English, History, and test prep.

I am a graduate of Duke University with a degree in Health Policy and Education Policy. While at Duke University I was a student athlete, participated in the leadership of several clubs and service groups; as well as, working as a Math and Reading tutor. After graduation I spent a year pursing a business venture allotted to me through the Elevator Pitch Competition, my senior year of college, which I won in my category - Non-Profits. After that year, I joined the Teach for America Fellowship, where I fell in love with teaching. The Teach for America Fellowship is 2 years; however, after my first year due to the recognition and growth in my classroom I was invited to start a school. I spent 2 years at that school prior to getting married and moving to California, a few months ago, with my amazing, aerospace loving, husband.Moving out here I knew I didn't want to go back into the classroom, but I wanted to find ways to support teachers and students, as they work toward reaching their goals. I decided to jump back into tutoring. Tutoring allows me to work with students whose needs aren't being met fully in the classroom and the supplement the handwork that each teacher puts into the education plans of their students. I have been tutoring all types of students from Special Needs to Gifted for 9 years. I have a ton of strategies for a variety of subjects and have seen my students grow leaps and bounds in confidence, skill, and ability.I love the challenge of uncovering a child's weaknesses, creating the opportunity for them to discover what they are capable of, and the excitement of seeing their faces light up once they realize, they can do it. Nothing brings me more joy then seeing children walk in the fullness of their potential.

I have dedicated a significant amount of time teaching all sorts of subjects ranging from tennis to ACT to dance to finance. I currently work for Kaplan teaching ACT, SAT, and MCAT. I have worked as a teaching assistant for computer science and even have taught finance to high school students. I love teaching because I believe I can connect well with the students. I am able to create short-cuts, tricks, and other useful methods that students love because I, myself, am a student. Therefore, I can relate well with all my students. Since my experiences range far and wide, I am confident that I can provide the best services as a tutor in my subject areas.Besides tutoring, I love to dance, play tennis, draw, and just have fun in general. I think of myself as the jokester of my friends group, so I'll always try to put a smile on your face!

I graduated from Princeton University in May 2015 with my Bachelor's in Biology. In May 2016, I graduated from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University with a Masters in management Studies. My education background is extremely diverse and promotes strong critical thinking and problem solving skills in various contexts.I began tutoring while a student at Princeton University. There, I tutored underclassmen while on campus as well as high school and middle school students from my hometown. I thoroughly enjoy tutoring individuals of all ages.At Princeton, I took two math courses, four Spanish courses, and a variety of science courses.My Masters degree program was all-encompassing and included courses on accounting, financial analysis, and corporate strategy.

I am a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley and Duke University. I received my Bachelor's degree in History and my Master's degree in Religious Studies. Since graduation I have tutored students in American History and Biblical Hebrew, which were exceedingly rewarding experiences. I am especially passionate in helping students learn to think critically, and enjoy the process of learning. While I tutor a variety of subjects, I am most enthusiastic about tutoring in History and Writing because these subjects utilize skills that students will use and cultivate throughout their lives and are applicable for many careers. I would describe my teaching philosophy as hands on and project-based learning. I strive to include fun and relevant videos, songs, and activities into my curriculum to ensure the engagement of my students. Outside of academia I like painting, baking, hiking, photography, and having game nights with friends.

I received my B.S. in Biology from Rhodes College, my M.S. in Biology from Alabama in Birmingham, and a PhD in Anatomy and Physiology from Duke University. My teaching over the last few years has focused on Histology (MicroAnatomy) and Physiology. Teaching modern histology and physiology requires a strong understanding of cell and molecular biology, and I incorporate these areas into my current teaching. I have also taught Genetics, Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, and Introductory Biology. During my 25 years at the University of Puget Sound, I continually served on our Health Professions Advising Committee, and was chair of this committee for three years. We advised students in all aspects of their applications for professional schools in diverse areas of health care professions, such as medical and dental school, among other professional health-related graduate programs. As chair of the committee I was solely responsible for writing committee letters for all of our students who applied through our committee. As a science educator, I serve my students, and do my utmost to provide them with a modern education in biology. I sincerely love teaching, which for me includes preparation through literature research, and organization and delivery of the best information. I enjoy all aspects of teaching, but most especially the reward of seeing my students learn, and secondarily, my learning of my field and pedagogy, through my efforts as a teacher.

I am a current student at Duke University School of Medicine pursuing my MHS degree in Physician Assistant studies. I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Respiratory Care with which I practiced as a Respiratory Therapist with focus in Adult critical Care. I have several certifications and I am a certified clinical simulations instructor. While I tutor a broad range of courses, I am passionate about Algebra, biology, anatomy & physiology, Medical terminology, medicine, ACLS, BLS,NRP, Respiratory board exams prep and pharmacology.Assisting students through tutoring is a desire of mine. I believe that every student has what it takes to excel academically if given the right resources and attention they deserve.

I am a sophomore at Duke University studying computer science and physics. Academically, I am drawn towards disciplines that employ logical problem-solving. I enjoy working with others to discover new intuitive ways of understanding problems.

I am a rising senior at Duke University who is Pre Med and majoring in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies. I was born and raised in Miami FL and went to public school until college (Sunset Elementary, GW Carver Middle and Coral Reef Senior High for those from Miami). I decided to start tutoring because I would not be on this path had I not had good teachers supporting me along the way. For that reason I want to be able to help others achieve their goals without academics being a huge hurdle.I have a broad set of interests but, most of them tend to be on the geekier side. For instance, I love playing video games, Dungeons and Dragons and board games with my friends. I also play tennis and soccer regularly and played soccer with an intramural team last year. Otherwise, I love to read for fun, in addition to the occasional academic article on American or Japanese culture.When I tutor I am always energetic, passionate and try to get my students as excited as I am. I am capable in a variety of fields but in particular l am very interested in language and culture. I am a native Spanish speaker and I have been studying Japanese since I entered college. I hope to be open and easily accessible for all of my students needs whether it be an extra session or a question that I can answer over text.

I am a recent graduate of Duke University, where I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 2014. I am primarily a math tutor but I also enjoy teaching chemistry and physics. Math was always my favorite subject in high school and I continued my love of math at Duke. I have also been a middle school and high school tutor throughout my time at Duke through the Program in Education. One of my crowning achievements at Duke was winning the DT Stallings Award, which is awarded to a Duke senior who has shown sustained and dedicated service to tutoring local school children. When I am tutoring a student, I prefer a very hands-on approach. I love working out problems with my students after working through an example problem completely. By working problems out with my students, I am able to help them if and when they get stuck. I hope to convey to every student the ability to think logically and persevere when things seem difficult.Outside of math and tutoring, I am a huge sports fan and novel reader. Since I graduated from Duke, I have a fierce love for all things Blue Devils and I really enjoyed watching Duke Basketball in Cameron Indoor Stadium. One of my favorite things to do is to read a novel while listening to my iPod.

BAs in art history and anthropology from Brown University.MPA (public admin) from Troy State University (while running an overseas program for NATO personnel).PhD in botany from Duke University.Gemology credentials from GIA.I write fiction and am interested in a MFA or MS in publishing. Always a student!I have tutored classroom (college) and online (HS) courses in math (e.g. algebra), botany, biology, physical, environmental, and life science.I also have experience with remedial English and ESL. In addition to science, I would like to tutor writing and English courses.Although I am progress driven, I also have a sense of humor. I love to laugh.I am interested in reading, writing, gems and minerals, nature, travel, and hiking. I love animals.

Hey, my name is Nitin Nagarajan, and I am a rising senior studying biomedical engineering. Orginially from Gadsden, AL, I excelled in many AP classes and the ACT and PSAT in high school. I only took the ACT once and received a 35 in my sophomore year, and became a National Merit Finalist the following year. I also have gotten 5s in APUSH, English Lit and Lang, and have high scores in a number of other AP courses. In college, I have taken several STEM classes, and are quite comfortable with a wide variety of topics.

I am a graduate of Duke University. I received my Doctorate in Nursing Practice, Executive Leadership. I am also a graduate of George Washington University where I received my Masters of Science in Nursing with a focus on Health Care Quality. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Arts in Biology from DeSales University with a minor in psychology. Additionally, I have certifications as a Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality, Certified Professional in Patient Safety, and Six Sigma Green Belt. I am a professional mentor at my organization for beginner nurses looking to advance their career and also provide academic guest lectures at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing. I have been blessed with many wonderful mentors and teachers in my academic journey and will always strive to enhance others academic or professional journey as well. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two children, hiking, Philadelphia 76ers, gardening, and reading Harry Potter.

I am a registered nurse that earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Duke University School of Nursing and a Bachelor of Arts in Healthcare Studies from the University of Richmond. As a dedicated tutor with experience supporting students from Duke University School of Nursing and serving as a teaching assistant in microbiology, I am passionate about making education in the biological and medical sciences both accessible and enjoyable. I specialize in tutoring a range of subjects including Biology/AP Biology, Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, Medical Terminology, and Nursing School courses such as Fundamentals, Pathophysiology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Maternity Nursing, and Pediatric Nursing. I also provide preparation for standardized exams like the NCLEX and TEAS. My favorite subjects to teach are the biological and medical sciences, as I find the human body to be an endlessly fascinating puzzle - one that is both complex and rewarding to explore. I strive to create a warm, engaging, and inclusive learning environment where students feel supported and empowered. I believe that education should never be a source of frustration or negative emotions; instead, it should be an opportunity for growth, confidence, and curiosity. In my sessions, I use concise, easy-to-follow reviews, practice questions, critical thinking exercises, and the teach-back method to ensure deep understanding and long-term retention. I also emphasize real-world applications of the material, helping students make meaningful connections that stick. Outside of tutoring, I enjoy arts and crafts, reading mystery novels, playing the flute, and spending quality time with my cat, Lilo. I look forward to helping you reach your academic goals with confidence and clarity

I am a rising senior at Duke University. I major in Computer Science and am also getting a minor in Physics. I have had experience tutoring/teaching as a teaching assistant for three classes: Intro to Databases, Electricity and Magnetism (for engineers), and Computer Network Architecture. I have had industry experience in software development as an intern for IBM and a cybersecurity analyst for TIAA. Outside of school/work, I play the piano and train with the Duke Taekwondo Club. I have a strong background in computer science, physics, and math, but I love learning about and helping students with a wide variety of subjects!

I am a current graduate student at Duke University in the Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, and I am a graduate of Assumption College with a Bachelor of Arts in Biotechnology and a minor in Chemistry. I was a tutor for the past three years at Assumption College. Working with students one-on-one and leading large group reviews has developed my ability to explain complex material to students in a simple and understandable manner. I have always enjoyed explaining material to others, and I find it satisfying when the students finally understand the concepts. I learned that in science it is crucial to be able to articulate concepts to people of diverse backgrounds. I also believe that it is essential to pass my knowledge and passion to others so they can make their own contribution to the scientific community. In my spare time I enjoy being active. I usually swim, run, and attend boxing classes.

I am a professional tutor specializing in academic writing and verbal/writing SAT and PSAT prep. I graduated in 2014 from Duke University with a degree in Cultural Anthropology and Theater Studies. My past tutoring experiences include a year with the Duke Athletics Department tutoring undergraduate athletes in anthropology, critical reading, and college-level writing. I have tutored with America Reads/America Counts (ARAC) and co-founded a tutoring program that continues to serve the language education needs of refugee youth in Durham, NC. I’m passionate about not only teaching students the material they need to be successful, but also how to think critically and independently.I start my tutoring sessions with a simple and individualized evaluation—sometimes I will look over students’ past work or practice tests to supplement a discussion about goals for our time together. Once we move on to subject material, my approach is to start with what students already know. When we’re faced with a seemingly impossible essay prompt or test question, we always have piece of knowledge that can help. I help students learn how to use their existing bodies of knowledge to find a way to a solution. We then work on building a toolbox of techniques they can use to handle the kinds of questions and tasks that are particularly challenging for them.I have two big picture goals for my students. First, I want them to leave my sessions feeling heard. I want to address my students’ most pressing questions and concerns, so I strive to create an environment where they’re comfortable articulating them. Second, I want them to walk into their tests or classrooms feeling confident. Even if they won’t know every answer, they'll have strategies and some tricks up their sleeves that will allow them to reach their personal education goals.

I am earning dual Bachelors of Science from Duke University and Duke Kunshan University (located in Kunshan, Jiangsu, China) in Behavioral Science-- intended to graduate in 2023. As a former Varsity Tutors student myself, I can confidently say that our services not only allow students to be proud of what they can achieve (for myself it was an SAT score and college admissions essays) but also who they are. Tutoring had a huge impact on my confidence in the classroom and other academic settings (i.e. testing, presentations, etc.) My greatest wish is to pay it forward.I am a passionate learner of developmental and abnormal psychology, with aspirations to become a clinical child psychologist in the future. I have years of volunteer and work experience as a camp counselor, lifeguard, science fair leader, babysitter, tutor, seminar leader, and child caretaker. I love to aid in the process of learning, my approach always being patient and enthusiastic.

I would like to begin our work together going over homework problems that cause you difficulty. Togetherwe will determine your level of understanding and then build on that, uncovering any innate-but-hiddenknowledge and skills that you have. In my time as a tenured Associate Professor at Stetson University, Iwas available during 6 weekly office hours, and often more than that when necessary (I never turned astudent away). As a graduate student at Columbia University, my tutoring most often involved pre-medicalstudents who wanted to deepen and polish their chemistry skills. I love this type of one-on-one work withpre-health students because Organic Chemistry is typically the most difficult of the four pre-healthcourses; I count it as an honor to instruct future professional chemists, doctors, veterinarians, physicianassociates, and the like, and to prepare them for an intense exposure to biochemistry and other coursesin their respective professional schools. This is not to say that I only enjoy working with pre-healthstudents; I am happy to work with anyone who needs special help in organic chemistry.

An appreciation of education is a prerequisite for any great tutor, and I believe that I have this appreciation. As a student at Duke University, I recognize that it is my teachers and tutors who played vital roles in my academic achievement. I would love to have the opportunity to help other students the same way my teachers and tutors did for me.One of my strengths that contributes to my success as a tutor is my ability to work with all kinds of people. Growing up in Portland, Oregon and going to college in Durham, North Carolina, I have not only been exposed to a diversity of people, but I have also had the chance to work as part of a team in many different settings. From helping my peers with problem sets in my biochemistry class to conducting spelling and geography bees as a volunteer with the North South Foundation, I have had many opportunities to work with others in an academic setting.Perhaps it is these previous experiences that most significantly contribute to my ability to be an effective tutor. I currently volunteer as a tutor with America Reads & Counts in Durham (ARAC), and through this program, I work with students in the Durham community to help them get the most out of their education. I usually help my students with their homework, and my experience as a tutor with ARAC has taught me valuable lessons about communication and empathy that I believe have shaped my ability to be a successful tutor.

I graduated from Duke University with a BS in Economics and a BA in Linguistics. I was also on the Duke Dance Team, studied abroad in Madrid, Spain, speak Spanish and Chinese, and have worked on a couple start-ups. I will be starting a job in August in finance in New York and have worked as a tutor for 6 years, both privately and with America Reads and Counts. I love working with motivated students and always see great improvement. I am especially strong with SAT and PSAT test prep tutoring. I am excited to work with students in NYC!

I graduated Cum Laude from Duke University with a B.A. in Philosophy and a minor in Political Science. I'm currently working towards a J.D. at Columbia Law School. Before joining Varsity Tutors, I tutored the LSAT for a private company, both as a classroom teacher and in one-on-one tutorials. Building off that experience, I will be working for Varsity Tutors, helping people prepare for the LSAT as well as the SAT and the ACT. I have really enjoyed my experience assisting students in test preparation. In my experience, students first approach tests in an ad hoc fashion, and often with a fair bit of trepidation and hesitancy. I find it tremendously satisfying to help students conquer those initial hurdles and gain a feeling of mastery and confidence. I am patient, and I encourage my students to be patient as well. I also help students faceand in so doing, conquertheir fear of failure. We practice not fearing mistakes, but seeing them as opportunities to learn, hone skills, and grow more confident. One of my strongest attributes as a tutor is my ability to break down complex ideas into clear and accessible language. There is nothing more gratifying than working through a difficult concept with a student and know they truly understand it and can put it into practice. In my free time I enjoy reading. Some of my favorite authors are George R. R. Martin (the author A Game of Thrones) and Junot Diaz. I also enjoy spending time with friends, often playing competitive board games, such as The Settlers of Catan.

I am rising junior at Duke University studying biomedical engineering and mathematics. Since junior year of high school I have really enjoyed tutoring students. I have been fortunate to tutor students of many ages, ranging from freshman in high school to juniors in college. I am most passionate about mathematics, engineering, and anything STEM essentially. I really believe that the reason students don't like these subjects is because they have had a rough initial experience studying these topics. I believe that with the right guidance and tutoring, everyone can appreciate STEM and understand why it is so crucial in our daily lives. In my free time, I love to run, play basketball, and watch movies.

I have tutored many people in the past - from elementary school kids to Duke University athletes. I really enjoy the challenge of helping students understand material that was previously foreign to them. I am highly dedicated, make my own lessons and try to make learning as fun as possible.

I have always been passionate about tutoring students to help them succeed! I have over five years of tutoring experience in ACT prep, SAT prep, Economics, English, US History, etc.I am currently a senior at Duke University studying Public Policy and Economics. I will be entering the field of management consulting upon graduation.

I am a third-year college student enrolled in a rigorous international program and I will graduate with two bachelor's degrees in 2023. One degree will be from Duke University and one will be from Duke Kunshan University in Kunshan, China. I received a full-tuition scholarship to attend Duke Kunshan University. I spent my freshman year studying in China, and I now live and study on Duke's campus in Durham, North Carolina. I have always been a strong student, with a current 3.94 GPA in college. I earned a 1510 on my SAT and am great at SAT tutoring as well as editing college application essays. I am also proficient in Spanish as a second language, and have experience tutoring Spanish language learners as well as Spanish-speaking English language learners. I have more than 3 years of tutoring experience working with children ages 7 up to adults. As a tutor, I consider myself knowledgable, motivated, and patient.

I graduated from Duke with double majors in Biology and Spanish and a minor in Chemistry. I have extensive experience working with children of all ages, in both childcare and tutoring. In high school, I launched a book club in a local elementary school, where I helped tutor elementary school students in reading comprehension. I also tutored a middle school student in Spanish and helped improve his knowledge of vocabulary and grammar. Since coming to college, I've continued to help elementary school students with reading, writing, and math.

I am a doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology at Duke University. My job requires excellent mathematics, analytic, and writing skills, which are also my favorite subjects to teach. I have experience teaching kids in elementary, middle, and high school, as well as college-aged students. My particular expertise is in managing attention and assisting with executive functioning (e.g., time management and planning).

I'm a graduate of Duke University where I received a JD and an MA in History. I received my undergraduate degree from Emory University also in History. My legal experience includes working as a summer law clerk for two appellate judges and as a summer associate at a large law firm in New York City. In college and in law school I tutored for a variety of subjects and enjoy working with students one-on-one to tackle and master difficult concepts. In my spare time, I enjoy taking in all that New York has to offer including biking in the park, cooking, and golfing.

When I began college, I remember struggling with tests and with time management. Being a premedical student from the very beginning meant that I was forced to learn very quickly how to overcome these challenges. My attempts to become a successful student were filled with perseverance, which became the theme of my professional endeavors. After working extremely hard to be accepted into my top choice medical school at Duke University, I again found myself in a situation where I felt under prepared and lost. Through much work and research about study skills, proper test preparation, and test taking strategies, I eventually have reached a level where I am comfortable assessing my own test readiness and how to best strengthen my academic weaknesses. I believe that through my own personal experiences, I have become a stronger life-long learner and I plan to use these skills throughout my career as I plan to stay in academic medicine to further the field of medical education.

I have been very fortunate when it comes to learning because I have always found it enjoyable. Not just academic learning but new experiences in general. Growing up I loved school, but it was not until I got to college that I realized how truly lucky I had been in my previous years to have had my dad as my personal tutor. Any time I had a question he was able to help me. I had taken his presence for granted and it was not until I was in college that I realized how good I had it back home. When I got to college I was of the mindset that I knew how to study and that school was the one thing that I did well. It was a severe wake-up call after my first organic chemistry midterm to realize that I needed help studying. My study techniques were not working for me anymore. I sought out my school's tutoring service and it was the single best decision I made during my academic career. Learning from my peers was very eye opening. I realized that we do not all learn the same way and I found that the way in which my professor would explain a concept was not always how it made sense to me. This did not mean I was not going to understand it just meant I needed to find a new perspective. All it would take was a different analogy or a different example problem for said concept to click with me. It was then that I realized that I wanted to be the person that helped someone else understand. I wanted to be someone's resource so that they could continue to pursue their academic goals with the best outcome possible because learning does not follow a strict formula, it is not linear, and I think that schools do not always do a good job of translating that to students.I think I will be a great tutor because I have been on both sides of the coin. I know what it takes to be a good tutor and have had success with my students in the past. I have learned that teaching effectively only happens when the instructor takes the time to learn how the tutee learns, whether it be visually or by hearing it said to them or even by writing it down. All of which are valid forms of understanding and processing information, but are not always the way that the material is taught in class. Tutoring gives me the opportunity to personalize the teaching so that it fits the individual's needs leading to more efficient and effective learning. I plan to develop my student's entire approach to problem solving. This way what they learn has multiple applications and is not subject specific. I will construct a personalized algorithm that they can apply to studying as well as daily homework problems. I believe that effective learning can be taught and developed and with hard work and discipline it can become second nature.

I am currently an undergraduate student at Duke University. I plan on pursuing a B.S. in statistical science with a minor in music. During my time in high school, I taught saxophone to middle school students. I would be happy to tutor various math subjects such as SAT Math, calculus I (AP Calculus AB), algebra, and pre-algebra. I would also be happy to teach saxophone and music theory and work on college application essays.