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PhD Engineer|Math, Physics & Chemistry| College Prep, Logic Mindset
Lucia Y.

5.0 (177 ratings)

475 hours tutoring

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Hourly Rate: $78
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Response time: 4 hours

About Lucia

Bio

Hi there! Facing a tough class can be overwhelming. If you feel stuck, anxious about an upcoming exam, or just wish someone could explain things in a way that actually makes sense, you've come to the right place.

I'm Lucia. With a Ph.D. in Engineering and over 10 years of experience, I specialize in helping students master complex STEM concepts. My focus is on building long-term academic confidence—a strategy that has successfully supported students in their journeys to competitive...

Hi there! Facing a tough class can be overwhelming. If you feel stuck, anxious about an upcoming exam, or just wish someone could explain things in a way that actually makes sense, you've come to the right place.

I'm Lucia. With a Ph.D. in Engineering and over 10 years of experience, I specialize in helping students master complex STEM concepts. My focus is on building long-term academic confidence—a strategy that has successfully supported students in their journeys to competitive universities.

My passion is "translating" abstract concepts into simple, visual language. By identifying the subtle logic gaps that cause students to feel "stuck", I help them go from saying "I'm bad at this" to "Oh, I get it now!"

My Approach: Strategy + Rigor I bring research-level logic to college-ready prep, prioritize learning smarter, not longer. Instead of just memorizing formulas, we focus on problem-solving strategies and connecting theory to reality. I’m proud that nearly all my students earn an A or A-. This happens not just because they are smart, but because together we build a personalized plan that works for them.

More Than Just Tutoring I've been in your shoes. I know the pressure. My goal isn't just to be a tutor for an hour; it's to be a mentor who provides the tools and confidence needed to become an independent learner.

Let's turn frustration into understanding and anxiety into achievement. Please send a message—I'm genuinely excited to hear about your goals and discuss how we can reach them together!

✨ 2025 SUCCESS HIGHLIGHTS
- From "Struggling" to "A's": Guided high schoolers from failing quizzes to earning consistent A's in Honors Chemistry and Precalculus within one semester.
- AP Exam Mastery: Coached students to top scores in AP Calculus BC and AP Physics, mastering exam strategies weeks ahead of school schedules.
- Confidence Restored: My biggest accomplishment isn't just the grades—it's seeing students overcome "math anxiety" and finally enjoy STEM.

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Education

Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics
Aircraft Design
University of Maryland
PhD

Additional Languages

Mandarin Chinese

Policies

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Approved Subjects

Algebra 1

Algebra 1

For foundational math, my approach is centered on patience and building confidence. My goal is to create a supportive, "no-judgment" environment where students feel safe to ask any question. We will work to make math feel intuitive and logical, celebrating small wins along the way to transform a student's relationship with the subject from one of anxiety to one of capability.
Algebra 2

Algebra 2

Algebra 2 is the bridge to all higher-level mathematics, and a solid foundation here is essential. My approach is to ensure students master the core abstract concepts—from complex numbers to polynomial and rational functions. We will work patiently to fill any gaps from previous courses and build the skills needed to tackle challenging problems with confidence.
Calculus

Calculus

Calculus is a beautiful subject that often feels intimidating. My Ph.D. background has given me an expert-level command of its concepts, and my passion is making them accessible. We will focus on building a true understanding of the core ideas—limits, derivatives, and integrals—so you can see them as logical tools, not just rules to memorize. I will help you build the skills to solve challenging problems with confidence.
Chemistry

Chemistry

Holding a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with extensive thermodynamics and chemical systems expertise, I specialize in making complex chemistry concepts intuitive and structured. I help students move past blind memorization by connecting molecular behavior, stoichiometry, and equilibrium to clear first-principles logic and visual models. My personalized diagnostic approach quickly pinpoints conceptual gaps, builds rigorous problem-solving habits, and turns academic frustration into confidence. Whether prepping for AP Chemistry or mastering honors coursework, students consistently see substantial grade improvements and a deeper mastery of the subject.
Chinese

Chinese

As a native Mandarin speaker, my approach goes far beyond the textbook. I specialize in making the language come alive by weaving in its rich culture, history, and the stories behind the characters. This immersive method has proven to be very engaging, helping my students, from children to American professionals, build a genuine and lasting connection with the language. I focus on making learning feel like a fascinating journey.
Elementary Math

Elementary Math

For foundational math, my approach is centered on patience and building confidence. My goal is to create a supportive, "no-judgment" environment where students feel safe to ask any question. We will work to make math feel intuitive and logical, celebrating small wins along the way to transform a student's relationship with the subject from one of anxiety to one of capability.
Geometry

Geometry

My philosophy for Geometry is to focus on logical reasoning over rote memorization. This subject is a fantastic opportunity to develop critical thinking skills. We will work together to make proofs feel like solving a puzzle, building arguments step-by-step, and ensuring you have a solid, intuitive grasp of theorems and postulates. My goal is to help you build confidence in your ability to reason logically.
Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

As a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, I possess an expert-level, practical command of all core undergraduate engineering topics. I have over 10 years of experience guiding university students through challenging subjects, including Statics, Thermodynamics, and Fluid Mechanics. My specialty is breaking down complex, theoretical problems into clear, logical steps, connecting the underlying math and physics to real-world applications. My goal is to equip you with the deep conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills needed to excel in your engineering coursework.
Physical Science

Physical Science

As a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, physics is the fundamental language of my field, providing me with an expert-level command of the subject. My strength is in making abstract concepts—from Newtonian mechanics to electricity and magnetism—feel intuitive by connecting them to their real-world applications. I have over 10 years of experience guiding a wide range of students, from those in high school and AP Physics to university-level students. My goal is to move beyond just formulas and help you build a deep, conceptual understanding of "why" things work, empowering you to solve challenging problems with confidence.
Physics

Physics

As a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, physics is the fundamental language of my field, providing me with an expert-level command of the subject. My strength is in making abstract concepts—from Newtonian mechanics to electricity and magnetism—feel intuitive by connecting them to their real-world applications. I have over 10 years of experience guiding a wide range of students, from those in high school and AP Physics to university-level students. My goal is to move beyond just formulas and help you build a deep, conceptual understanding of "why" things work, empowering you to solve challenging problems with confidence.
Prealgebra

Prealgebra

Pre-algebra is the most important step in a student's math journey; it's where their long-term confidence is built or broken. My approach for this crucial subject is centered on patience and creating a supportive, "no-judgment" environment where students feel safe to ask any question. We will work together to make abstract concepts like variables and negative numbers feel intuitive and logical. My goal is to transform math from a source of anxiety into a subject they feel capable of mastering, ensuring they walk into Algebra 1 feeling fully prepared and confident.
Precalculus

Precalculus

This is one of the most critical courses in a student's math journey, as it builds the entire foundation for success in Calculus. My "big picture" approach is especially valuable here. I don't just teach the topics like functions, trigonometry, and logarithms; I constantly emphasize how these concepts are the essential tools they will use every day in their future STEM classes. My goal is to ensure you not only achieve an excellent grade in this course but enter Calculus feeling confident and exceptionally well-prepared.
SAT Math

SAT Math

As an engineering PhD, I help students master Digital SAT Math through first-principles reasoning and high-efficiency Desmos strategies rather than rote memorization. My targeted diagnostic approach focuses on adaptive module mechanics, rapid question triage, and eliminating systemic error traps. Students regularly achieve significant breakthroughs, often improving by 150+ points in just 6 to 8 weeks. Whether rebuilding foundational algebra or sprinting for a perfect score, I equip students with the speed, precision, and confidence needed for test day.
Trigonometry

Trigonometry

Trigonometry is the essential language of physics and engineering, and I bring an expert-level command of the subject from my Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering. My approach is to make the concepts—from the unit circle and trigonometric identities to polar coordinates—feel intuitive and logical, not just a list of formulas to memorize. I have over 10 years of experience helping students build a strong, confident foundation, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges of Calculus. My goal is to help you master the material so you can apply it with skill and confidence.
Lucia Y.'s Photo

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Response time: 4 hours

Ratings and Reviews

Rating

5.0 (177 ratings)
5 star
(175)
4 star
(1)
3 star
(0)
2 star
(1)
1 star
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Reviews

Truly Supportive Tutor

Lucia is truly one of the best tutors we could have asked for. She is incredibly knowledgeable, patient, encouraging, and deeply dedicated to her students. Her teaching style is outstanding, and each session was always well structured and highly productive. She carefully explained difficult concepts and made sure our son learned from his mistakes through thoughtful explanations and targeted practice problems. Over the past year, we saw tremendous growth not only in our son’s academic skills, but also in his confidence and resilience. What makes Lucia especially remarkable is that she genuinely cares about her students and truly believes in their potential. Her encouragement and support made a huge difference during a very demanding academic year. We are incredibly grateful for everything she has done and would highly recommend her to any family looking for an exceptional tutor.

Sue Yasuko, 75 lessons with Lucia

Extremely knowledgeable, patient and discerning tutor

Teacher Lucia teaches our 6th grader and 9th grader, and she has helped them both tremendously. She caters to each child individually, understanding their unique needs and the best way to coach them. She then takes the trouble of providing the parents a detailed assessment and recommendation. She takes her own personal time to do this. She is a remarkably discerning teacher with a calm and assuring personality. 10 stars !

Manish, 96 lessons with Lucia

A Dedicated and Exceptional Tutor

I highly recommend Lucia as a tutor. She is patient, diligent, and incredibly thorough in her approach. Each lesson is focused and well-structured, with a clear plan designed to help her students succeed. She takes the time to ensure concepts are fully understood and is always willing to provide extra support when needed. Her dedication and commitment truly make a difference in both confidence and academic performance.

Shannon, 4 lessons with Lucia

A Wonderful Connection from Day One

Lucia is an extraordinary person. We started working with her only recently, but she immediately found the right approach to connect with my son, who can be a bit unmotivated and doesn’t love traditional math. She quickly found a way to communicate with him and make learning feel more approachable and engaging.

Gisella, 20 lessons with Lucia
Hourly Rate: $78
Response time: 4 hours
Contact Lucia