Our Tutors

Robert R

Teaching Style

I’ve always been interested in the application of math and science to the solution of real world problems. This led me to a very satisfying career in engineering. Therefore my approach to teaching is very application oriented. I like to relate the subject to problems that the students will encounter in real life situations. I've generally only worked with older students; high school or college age or older mature adults who have returned to school to get advance training or learn a new trade.

Experience Summary

I’ve always been interested in math and science; especially in their application to solving real world problems. This led me to a very satisfying career in engineering. I have a BS in electrical engineering from General Motors Institute (now Kettering University) and an MS in electrical engineering from Marquette University. I am a registered professional engineer in Illinois. I have over 30 years of experience in the application, development, and sales/field support of electrical/electronic controls for industrial, aerospace, and automotive applications. I’m currently doing consulting work at Hamilton-Sundstrand, Delta Power Company, and MTE Hydraulics in Rockford. I also have college teaching and industrial training experience. I have taught several courses at Rock Valley College in Electronic Technology, mathematics, and in the Continuing Education area. I’ve done industrial technical training for Sundstrand, Barber Colman, and others. I’ve also taught math courses at Rasmussen College and Ellis College (online course). I’ve also been certified as an adjunct instructor for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for math and physics courses. I've tutored my own sons in home study programs. I'm currently tutoring a home schooled student in math using Saxon Math. I hope to do more teaching/tutoring in the future as I transition into retirement.

Joon J

Teaching Style

I am a huge proponent of the dialectic and Socratic methods of teaching, while recognizing the need for the didactic to learn the basic methods of academics. My own experience, as well as my background in Psychology, helps me recognize that learning must be relevant, interesting, and conducted in a highly accepting and supportive environment. I am keenly aware of the sense of inadequacy of students who come to tutoring services (I have been one myself in the past) and make special care to make all my students feel that improvement is possible for anyone. The knowledge and strategies that high performers utilize are not exclusive; anyone can learn with patience and the right tutor!

Experience Summary

I am a current teacher for the Princeton Review for the SAT (soon also for the GRE and GMAT), as well as a former tutor for Huntington Learning Center (SAT). A score of 1400 on the SAT allows me the credibility to teach, while a self-awareness allows me to understand the mechanisms and strategies that have allowed me this success. As a recipient of two bachelor degrees, in Biochemistry and Psychology, I am uniquely positioned to help students on a variety of subjects. My curriculum included Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physics, Math, and a litany of Psychology courses, including the Psychology of Learning.

Amanda A

Teaching Style

I love sharing my love for mathematics with others. I find that my enthusiasm for the subject and for learning is contagious and helps me inspire my students to do their best. I believe that anyone can be successful at mathematics, and focus on showing concepts and ideas in several different ways to accommodate different learning styles. I focus on teaching problem solving and showing students the relevance of mathematics in their lives.

Experience Summary

I have a Bachelors and Masters in Mathematics. I have been tutoring students in Mathematics since early in my college career. I have been teaching at the community college and university level for the past 4 years. During this time I have taught college level and high school level math as well as Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers. This experience has familiarized me with all of the current models, standards and principles of Mathematics education at every level.

Jim J

Teaching Style

Educational goals are comprised of two major types: short term - typically course oriented and long term - typically life oriented. I believe that everyone can learn almost any subject matter if it is presented in a meaningful manner - conceptual and tangible. I utilize my broad-based educational and life experiences to identify and then address a person's learning opportunities so that they not only succeed in the short term goals but also incorporate their new knowledge in a manner supporting their goals of life long education. Education and the ability to think is a gift - I am committed to supporting a person's efforts to receive this gift.

Experience Summary

I am a graduate of the University of California, Irvine. I originally studied Chemistry and Biological Sciences for the first 3 years maintaining a high GPA. I became allergic to many base reagents used in synthesis that precluded me from completing this educational path. I completed my education in business receiving degrees in economics and business administration. I went to work with a global consulting firm implementing financial systems. Since college I have continued to tutor mathematics, chemistry, biological science and physics. I have tutored for over 20 years intermittently. Many of my students completed their educations at universities including the University of California, Notre Dame, Syracuse, CSULB, etc.

Lori L

Teaching Style

I believe that students are wary of mathematics and statistics because they appear clinic and distant, with little to do with the “real” world. To educate I try to create dynamic and above all relevant “uses” for the lessons. My experiences have exposed me to different teaching styles and class formats and allowed me to develop a teaching philosophy that encompasses the best of all these methods. My philosophy is best described with reference to six primary concepts: 1. Knowledge conveyed in a relevant context 2. Interaction with each student and the material 3. Passion for teaching and the subject 4. Adaptability 5. Creativity in teaching methods and 6. Respect between the student and the teacher All students seek knowledge; it’s the teacher’s role to facilitate learning and guide them along the path. A successful lesson is one in which the student comes out seeing the world a little differently.

Experience Summary

During my education and career, the teaching of others has featured prominently in my personal goals and life objectives. While attending high school, I tutored fellow students professionally in subjects ranging from basic algebra to complex calculus. My undergraduate degree was in the field of Mathematics and Statistics with an additional biological statistics certificate and at present I am completing my Masters of Science in statistics. My understandings of these fields lead to my recruit by a number of professors and researchers to provide assistance and advisement on statistical analysis of their projects. In addition to assisting my professors, I was also selected to be a Graduate Teaching Assistant, and was also selected to conduct "stand alone" courses. I have a strong passion for these subjects and I believe my years of teaching experience have given me the insight, patience and ability to convey the complex world of mathematics and statistics to my students.

Ashley A

Teaching Style

First and foremost, I believe it is important to establish a trusting relationship with those you teach. Throughout my experiences in the field of education, I have found the most fruitful of those relationships to be those in which I was able to work with a student or group of students regularly over an extended period of time to develop a routine and a strong relationship in which great amounts of learning and understanding could be accomplished. Although many people experience obstacles in learning Mathematics, I believe that by presenting multiple ways to approach a problem, every student can find a method that works for them. Every student should be allowed the resources and opportunity to realize that they CAN achieve their goals. I am here to help students who have had difficulty with Math in the past to succeed, and feel confident in both their abilities in Math, and in life.

Experience Summary

As a student, I was always committed to learning and to achieving my goals. As a teacher and tutor, I strive to help others share the same love for learning and for understanding as I do. Now, I help others set goals, and work toward achieving them. I have worked with all ages, all ability levels, and various sized groups and have enjoyed each and every experience. In the past, I have primarily tutored in the subject of Mathematics, but am also trained by the Literacy Council to tutor reading and writing, and have enjoyed volunteering with that organization as well. I believe that I can help anyone enjoy and understand math, and help them feel better about themselves for it.

Ellen E

Teaching Style

I prefer to focus on a child's strengths, even while teaching a subject that may be considered the child's weakest. I believe finding and integrating strengths promotes learning because it creates positive attitudes and a more productive learning environment. While understanding certain systems or theories is necessary, I think it is sometimes easier for a child to grasp challenging material when they see plenty of examples of the theory at work.

Experience Summary

As a recent graduate, with seven years experience writing in a professional environment, I excel at writing and editing because I understand the system of language, and I pay close attention to detail. I have nearly five years experience working with children in a structured environment, in addition to working with children of various ages as a summer camp counselor. I also hold a certificate with significant training in teaching English to non-native speakers.

Luketan L

Teaching Style

I have experience tutoring as well as serving the role as a teacher's assistant for an Accounting Information System Class at UofO. As I learn from past experience, I am very approachable and open to helping every student find academic success. I can accommodate to different styles of learning and aim to emphasize my teachings around areas where each individual student struggles the most. I am very relaxed and open to what each student needs.

Experience Summary

I graduated from the University of Oregon Honors Business Program with a B.A in Accounting and Economics in 2007 with a 3.8 GPA along with earning Magna Cum Laude recognition at graduation. I have completed my CPA exam and currently being certified for the State of Oregon. My prior career experience in Accounting includes an internship and a career with two Big 4 Public Accounting Firms: KPMG as an internal audit intern in San Jose, Ca as well as an associate at PriceWaterhouseCoopers in Portland, OR. I recently switched over to private industry accounting in June 2008 and now work as an Accounting Analyst at Portland General Electric.