I was the first young adult in my immediate family, and one of the first in my extended family, to attend a four-year university. I was offered admission to each university to which I applied, having completed several Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and having earned one of the highest grade point averages (GPA) in my class. Many of my classmates also secured admission to the most selective universities in the state and in the nation.

Both in high school and at university, I often received requests from classmates for assistance in preparing for exams. What I think they saw in me was kindness, patience, and confidence in my abilities. I always enjoyed studying with friends, and to share my knowledge and skills gave me an added boost of confidence. I also took advantage of opportunities to learn from mentors, teachers, and professors. One of my favorite professors taught Quantum Chemistry, and was as patient as she was brilliant. The subject was very challenging, and I often sought guidance from her with challenging course material. I have kept in touch with her in recent years, and I was delighted to learn recently that she has been appointed to a position of leadership at my former university. I found inspiration in people such as her.

During my graduate studies, I gained experience as a teaching assistant in an introductory course in Materials Science. Around this time, my first tutoring work was a few math sessions with a high school student who was referred to me. I have recently returned to tutoring, and I have enjoyed the challenges and rewards.