Maria Alcazar
BS, Oregon State University
With a deep understanding of both foundational and advanced mathematical concepts, Maria is skilled at simplifying complex problems and making them accessible to students. She tailors her tutoring approach to meet the unique needs of each student, helping them build confidence and improve their skills. Whether working through fundamental concepts or preparing for more advanced topics, Maria is dedicated to providing clear and patient guidance to support student success.
Maria’s Study Tip: “Break complex problems into smaller steps, and don’t skip showing your work! This not only helps catch mistakes, but also strengthens your understanding of key concepts over time.”
Alina Tudorica
BA/PhD, University of Bucharest
PhD, State University of New York - Stony Brook
Alina combines her deep knowledge of the sciences with her extensive experience in education to offer top-notch test preparation and subject tutoring. With her unique background in both research and instruction, she can translate complex concepts into clear, test-ready knowledge. Alina’s methodical and patient approach builds a strong foundation, empowering them to approach tests like the SAT and ACT with confidence and poise.
Alina’s Study Tip: “Regularly practice under real test conditions and focus on your weakest areas. This targeted approach builds skills and confidence for test day.”
Alisa Chung
BS, University of British Columbia
Alisa brings a compassionate and patient approach to tutoring. With extensive experience as a peer mentor and undergraduate teaching assistant, she excels in creating affirming learning environments tailored to neurodiverse students. Alisa’s academic background and dedication to inclusive education make her an invaluable asset to students striving to understand complex mathematical and scientific concepts.
Alisa’s Study Tip: “When in doubt, write it out – on a physical sheet of paper with a pencil! It's remarkable how much clearer things can become that way.”
Ben Lewton
BS, University of Cincinnati
Ben's teaching style emphasizes grounding abstract subjects through students' everyday experiences. Holding degrees in Physics and Astrophysics, his fascination with cutting-edge science hasn't kept him from staying down to earth. Ben values math for its ability to connect diverse topics, and he believes these connections enable students to interpret this fascinating “language of the universe” for themselves.
Ben’s Study Tip: “Try to find math in everyday life, whether it's geometry in your furniture or the kinetic friction under your feet. Learning needs context - combine your lessons with something you can see, hear, or feel!”
Chris Pratt
BS, University of Florida
With over a decade of experience tutoring and a wide range of mathematics coursework under his belt, Chris prides himself in helping students bridge the gap between rote memorization and authentic mastery. He believes that to be most effective, instruction must not only unpack the topic at hand but also the larger conceptual framework that undergirds it. Using a tailored approach unique to each student, Chris aims to build complex connections and a deep understanding of every subject.
Chris’s Study Tip: “Practice a little bit every day, even if it's just opening your book and reading one page. A single step is a move in the right direction – with enough steps, you'll complete any journey.”
Daniel Wallace
BA/BS, University of California - Davis
PhD, Portland State University (in-progress)
Daniel is driven to help individuals develop both their character and their cognition through careful engagement with math. He provides a supportive environment where students can attempt new ways of thinking, discover strength in self-reflection, and apply their skills to novel problems. Because even the most gifted students struggle at some point in advanced coursework, Daniel believes what matters is determination to be the best possible version of oneself.
Daniel’s Study Tip: “For word problems, write down all the relevant information given in a clearer, more concise form. This makes it easier to discern relationships between concepts and determine how to use what you know to answer the question."
Dani Goldstein
BS, Davidson College
Dani harnesses their passion for puzzles and focused learning in their role as a versatile tutor. With a robust academic background and diverse teaching experiences (incl. a stint in China), Dani brings a wealth of knowledge and adaptable teaching strategies to their students. And as an AP Scholar with Distinction, they excel in higher-level coursework, leveraging their expertise to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for mathematical challenges.
Dani’s Study Tip: "Begin every study session or exam hydrated, rested, and well-fed to optimize your performance. A walk in nature, a good night's sleep, and staying hydrated can remarkably boost your focus and energy levels."
Fernando Granizo
BS/MS, University of California – San Diego
Fernando is a passionate tutor with a strong foundation in STEM, holding degrees in Chemical Engineering. He specializes in breaking down complex concepts into digestible lessons, and has consistently helped students achieve academic success, whether they were struggling with the fundamentals or advancing through rigorous AP courses.
Fernando’s Study Tip: "Approach your math and science classes with equal doses of curiosity and patience. Be prepared to analyze the solution process, not just the final answer."
Jadon Schmitt
BS, University of Oregon
Jadon brings both extensive experience and a record of exceptional academic achievement to test prep, boasting near-perfect scores on PSAT, ACT, and GRE. With degrees in mathematics and economics, he combines rigorous analytical skills with a thorough understanding of test-taking strategies. Jadon brings warmth, patience, and a passion for the material to his tutoring sessions, ensuring that each student feels supported and motivated to exceed even their highest expectations.
Study Tip: “On the verbal portions of standardized exams, aim to not only understand why the correct answer is correct, but also why the other options are incorrect.”
Jameson Boslough
BA, University of Montana
MEd, University of Montana
Jameson is a versatile and experienced educator, having coached both kindergarteners on skis and environmental science majors on the Missouri River. His work with diverse learners enables him to tailor his approach to each student’s needs and aspirations. Jameson’s goal is to kindle the sparks of motivation that drive success, improve thinking, and cultivate a passion for learning.
Jameson’s Study Tip: “Take a step back and consider your big-picture goals for a class, test, or semester, then list out key steps needed to meet them (the how) and the core reasons these goals matter (the why). A clear vision and tangible roadmap make all the difference!”
Jon Richards
BS/BA, Metropolitan State University of Denver
Jon's affinities for math, science, language, and test strategy enable him to offer comprehensive guidance across a variety of subjects. By emphasizing the larger conceptual framework of each subject, he ensures that students grasp more than just facts – they develop the critical thinking skills necessary to connect and apply complex ideas and grow their ability to become autonomous learners.
Jon’s Study Tip: “Enhance test performance with active recall: rather than consulting your notes while solving a practice problem, try to retrieve key concepts from memory first. Even if your recall is inaccurate or partial, you're reinforcing your understanding and memory reserves for test day.”
Nina Brim
BA, Macalester College
Bringing a Bachelor's in Mathematics and over 5 years of tutoring experience, Nina is eager to share her love of math with students. Nina strives to make math a bit less daunting by cultivating a comfortable environment where students can learn, challenge themselves, and have fun solving problems. In addition to private tutoring, Nina is engaged in enriching minds in the math department at Portland Community College.
Nina’s Study Tip: “A lot of success in math comes from understanding how to use the tools in your toolkit. Before working on a problems in a specific area, it's helpful to review key concepts and formulas so that you're ready to apply them.”
Ona Underwood
BA, Princeton University
An Ivy League graduate with over eight years of tutoring and teaching experience – including five years specifically tutoring for the SAT – Ona is passionate about working with young people to build the confidence and skills required to accomplish their goals. She uses curiosity and creativity to meet students where they’re at and adapt to their unique learning styles.
Ona’s Study Tip: “When you're not sure how to approach a challenging problem, start by identifying what you do know. You might be surprised at how far you can get when you believe in yourself and troubleshoot with the tools at hand!”