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Summer Organic Chemistry, Biology, Chemistry, MCAT w/ an MD Student!
Sergio B.

704 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Hourly Rate: $200
Response time: 1 day

About Sergio


Bio

As a first-year medical student and UC San Diego graduate (4.0 GPA, Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa), I combine academic excellence with a passion for helping high school and college students master the sciences. I aim to instill lasting understanding and confidence in all of my students!

Given that I recently navigated the pre-med journey, earning 17 interviews to schools including Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Northwestern, UChicago, Baylor, WashU, and UCSD, I'm eager to provide academic...

As a first-year medical student and UC San Diego graduate (4.0 GPA, Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa), I combine academic excellence with a passion for helping high school and college students master the sciences. I aim to instill lasting understanding and confidence in all of my students!

Given that I recently navigated the pre-med journey, earning 17 interviews to schools including Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Northwestern, UChicago, Baylor, WashU, and UCSD, I'm eager to provide academic support and guidance on MCAT preparation and medical school applications.

My B.S. in Molecular & Cell Biology, Minor in Chemistry, and A+s earned in most of my coursework position me to offer expert guidance across multiple disciplines:

AP Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Microbiology, Physiology

AP Chemistry, General Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry

Organic Chemistry, Structural/Metabolic Biochemistry

With thousands of hours of tutoring experience serving hundreds of high school and college students as a genetics TA, organic chemistry supplemental instruction leader, and science olympiad coach for first-generation students, I've become comfortable breaking down challenging concepts at multiple levels in-person and online. I take a collaborative approach to teaching and emphasize meeting my students where they’re at. This philosophy allows me to make intimidating subjects like chemistry, organic chemistry, and biochemistry more approachable.

As a former college TA, I earned a 97.5% recommendation rate, with one student sharing, "Sergio was the most prepared and knowledgeable TA I've had, even as a senior at UCSD. His grasp on course material and ability to explain difficult concepts clearly really helped me excel in the course." Another noted, "Sergio is probably the best TA I've had at UCSD. He was always available to answer questions (even to students not in his section) and did so very promptly, clearly, and in great detail. 10/10."

Let's work together to achieve your academic dreams!


Education

UC San Diego
Molecular and Cell Biology
Indiana University School of Medicine (in-progress)
MD

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $200
  • Rate details: After 2+ subsequent cancellations with <12h notice, any additional cancellations will be charged a flat $40 fee. No shows after having agreed upon a time are charged a $60 fee.
  • Lesson cancellation: 24 hours notice required
  • Background check passed on 11/2/2024

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Approved Subjects

Biochemistry

Biochemistry

As a molecular and cell biology major with a chemistry minor, I have a rigorous foundation in biochemistry. I completed courses in structural biochemistry (CHEM 114A), metabolic biochemistry (BIBC 102), and biochemistry laboratory techniques (CHEM 108), earning A+ grades in all. I received the highest score in my CHEM 114A class and supported my peers by clarifying complex concepts. I have extensive experience helping students in a variety of biochemistry classes here on Wyzant as well, in topics including but not limited to enzyme regulation, glycolysis and gluconeogenesis, the Krebs Cycle and electron transport chain, regulation of metabolic pathways, beta oxidation of fatty acids, and fatty acid synthesis. I have also helped students understand concepts like enzyme inhibition, allostery, and pH/pKa. I am especially prepared to help you understand the big picture of metabolism and to understand how chemical structure informs function of biomolecules. I have formal experience serving as a TA for college genetics, where I earned a 97.5% recommendation rate from 40 students. Students highlighted my preparedness and knowledge, with one noting, "Sergio was the most prepared and knowledgeable TA I've had, even as a senior at UCSD. His grasp on course material and ability to explain difficult concepts clearly really helped me excel in the course." With over 5 years and 500 hours of tutoring experience, I am able to effectively guide students through challenging material and clarify any confusing topics!
Biology

Biology

I graduated with a 4.0 GPA, earning my degree in molecular and cell biology from UC San Diego. I achieved A+ grades in all upper-division biology courses, including human physiology (BIPN 100), genetics (BICD 100), embryos, genes, and development (BICD 130), metabolic biochemistry (BIBC 102), structural biochemistry (BIBC 100) cell biology (BICD 110), molecular biology (BIMM 100), and the molecular basis of human disease (BIMM 110). I also earned an A in microbiology (BIMM 110). I am comfortable tutoring all of these subjects and have worked with students in AP, IB, and college biology classes both on-and-off of Wyzant, helping clarify confusing concepts and teaching students how to break down complex questions. I aim to instill a deep understanding in my students extending beyond mere memorization of facts. Students have provided feedback that they have seen an increase in at least a letter grade between quizzes before and after beginning work with me! Additionally, I served as a TA for college genetics, where I earned a 97.5% recommendation rate. Students highlighted my preparedness and knowledge, with one noting, "Sergio was the most prepared and knowledgeable TA I've had, even as a senior at UCSD. His grasp on course material and ability to explain difficult concepts clearly really helped me excel in the course." With over 5 years and 1000+ hours of tutoring experience on and off of Wyzant, I am able to effectively guide students through challenging material.
Chemistry

Chemistry

I bring several years of tutoring experience in high school and college-level chemistry, including AP Chemistry and general chemistry courses. After scoring a 5 on the AP Chemistry exam, I achieved A+ grades in upper-division inorganic chemistry (CHEM 120A and CHEM 120B) and in general chemistry laboratory (CHEM 7L). My strong foundation in chemistry is further supported by my minor in chemistry, which complements my degree in molecular and cell biology. Here on Wyzant, I've helped many students in advanced, AP, IB, and college general chemistry clarify their understanding of topics including, but not limited to free energy, kinetics, rate laws, gas laws, stoichiometry, intermolecular forces, enthalpy, lewis structures, and electrochemistry. I am especially comfortable clarifying some of the most confusing topics in general chemistry courses, such as thermodynamics and equilibrium, acids + bases, and buffers. With a proven track record of helping students grasp complex chemical concepts, I am dedicated to fostering a deep understanding and appreciation for the subject, empowering my students to excel academically. My goal is not just to have my students learn formulas and memorize facts; I aim to instill deep understanding of concepts and teach analytical problem-solving skills. I have formal experience serving as a TA in college, where I earned a 97.5% recommendation rate. Students highlighted my preparedness and knowledge, with one noting, "Sergio was the most prepared and knowledgeable TA I've had, even as a senior at UCSD. His grasp on course material and ability to explain difficult concepts clearly really helped me excel in the course." With 5+ years and 500+ hours of tutoring experience, I am able to effectively guide students through challenging material.
Genetics

Genetics

I graduated with a 4.0 GPA, earning my degree in molecular and cell biology from UC San Diego. I achieved A+ grades in all upper-division biology courses, including human physiology (BIPN 100), genetics (BICD 100), embryos, genes, and development (BICD 130), metabolic biochemistry (BIBC 102), cell biology (BICD 110), molecular biology (BIMM 100), and the molecular basis of human disease (BIMM 110). I also earned an A in microbiology (BIMM 110). Additionally, I served as a TA for college genetics, where I earned a 97.5% recommendation rate. Students highlighted my preparedness and knowledge, with one noting, "Sergio was the most prepared and knowledgeable TA I've had, even as a senior at UCSD. His grasp on course material and ability to explain difficult concepts clearly really helped me excel in the course." With 5+ years and 500+ hours of teaching experience, I am able to effectively guide students through challenging material including complex topics such as linkage, DNA sequencing, gene libraries, Mendelian genetics, cell division, meiosis, and recombination,
Guitar

Guitar

I have experience with arranging fingerstyle guitar pieces as well as accompaniment with jazz and RnB style chords. I also have experience in music theory and ear training and how these skills apply to the guitar. I have taught friends and relatives skills like new chord shapes and progressions!
MCAT

MCAT

I achieved a score of 523 on the September 2023 MCAT, with a breakdown of 131 in C/P, 128 in CARS, 132 in B/B, and 132 in P/S. This 99th percentile score reflects my mastery of the exam's content and skills. During my preparation, I developed my own personalized study plan that included creating my own flashcards, identifying high yield resources, and completing a total of 11 practice exams over three months. Overall I completed and thoroughly reviewed over 2500+ questions independently. I consistently scored as high as 525 on my practice tests and averaged a 523 overall on the official AAMC practice exams. In addition to my own success, I have assisted multiple students in crafting their study plans and identifying effective strategies for excelling on the exam. I am experienced in taking into account a student's educational background and test date and helping them come up with a plan to maximize the use of their time. My experience equips me to guide others in navigating the MCAT preparation process with confidence. I have helped several students on-and-off of Wyzant come up with a comprehensive study plan, identify points of weakness and areas to prioritize, learn test-taking strategy and how to break down passages, and provide direct content tutoring in biology, biochemistry, physics, chemistry, organic chemistry, CARS, psychology, and sociology! I have formal experience as a TA for genetics and organic chemistry and have hundreds of hours of experience 1:1 tutoring for general chemistry, biochemistry, and upper division biology as well, and so I am well equipped to help my students become both faster and more accurate on both the B/B and C/P sections. Because I have worked with many students, I am quite familiar with the content and many of the specific passages of the section banks, UWorld passages, and especially all 5 of the official AAMC exams. One of my first MCAT students began working with me after earning a 501 on her first MCAT attempt; after a few months of regular sessions with me, she was abl
Microbiology

Microbiology

I earned an A in upper-division Microbiology (BIMM 120) at UC San Diego, where I developed a solid foundation in microbial cell biology, genetics, and molecular biology. My academic success in this course reflects my strong grasp of complex microbiological concepts. I have formal teaching experience as a TA for college genetics, where I earned a 97.5% recommendation rate. Students highlighted my preparedness and knowledge, with one noting, "Sergio was the most prepared and knowledgeable TA I've had, even as a senior at UCSD. His grasp on course material and ability to explain difficult concepts clearly really helped me excel in the course." My teaching experience, combined with my comprehensive understanding of biochemical processes, enables me to effectively guide students through challenging material including microbiology!
Music Theory

Music Theory

UCSD graduate with a music minor, specifically within jazz theory. I scored a 5 on the AP Music Theory exam in both the aural and nonaural subsections. I also have experience arranging for and directing a collegiate a cappella group.
Organic Chemistry

Organic Chemistry

I earned straight A's and A+s in the organic chemistry sequence at UC San Diego (CHEM 40A-C, including the honors versions of Organic Chemistry II and III) and organic chemistry laboratory (CHEM 43A). Following my coursework, I served as an organic chemistry Supplemental Instruction Leader for a quarter, where I created original problems to challenge and engage groups of up to 20 students. As a supplemental instruction leader for organic chemistry and also as a college TA for genetics, I've earned a recommendation rate of 97.5% from 40+ students. My experience includes working with individuals and large groups in both in-person and online settings. Here on Wyzant, I've also helped numerous students finally grasp an understanding of the difference between Sn2, Sn1, E2, and E1 reactions, gain a better understanding of chirality and stereochemistry, learn how to break down synthesis problems, and understand reactions of alcohols, alkenes, alkynes, alpha carbon compounds, enolates, alkyl halides, and aromatic compounds. I take the approach of conceptualizing reaction problems step-wise and with tools including arrow pushing mechanisms. I strive to make organic chemistry more approachable and accessible for my students. I am also especially prepared to help students think through complex, multi-step synthesis problems and can teach you how to break these down to make them more approachable. I am also experienced with helping students break down and interpret data for organic chemistry lab assignments and reports. Students have highlighted my preparedness and knowledge, with one noting, "Sergio was the most prepared and knowledgeable TA I've had, even as a senior at UCSD. His grasp on course material and ability to explain difficult concepts clearly really helped me excel in the course."
Physiology

Physiology

For the past three years, I have coached anatomy and physiology for a high school Science Olympiad team, covering systems such as the immune, respiratory, digestive, cardiac, renal, lymphatic, muscular, skeletal, and integumentary systems. I personally competed in this event, earning several regional medals in the Orange County competition. In college, I completed the upper-division Human Physiology course (BIPN 100) with an A+, and I achieved a biology subsection score of 131/132 on the MCAT. My diverse experience in coaching and my strong academic background equip me to effectively guide students in mastering physiology concepts. I have formal teaching experience as a TA for college genetics, where I earned a 97.5% recommendation rate. Students highlighted my preparedness and knowledge, with one noting, "Sergio was the most prepared and knowledgeable TA I've had, even as a senior at UCSD. His grasp on course material and ability to explain difficult concepts clearly really helped me excel in the course." My teaching experience, combined with my comprehensive understanding of biochemical processes, enables me to effectively guide students through challenging material, including in physiology.
Proofreading

Proofreading

I completed the 5 quarter humanities (HUM) sequence through Revelle College at UC San Diego. I have experience proofreading and providing feedback for essays for grammar, clarity, and strength of prose in this sequence. I have also reviewed + revised several college and medical school admissions essays.
Psychology

Psychology

I have a strong foundation in psychology, having completed several relevant courses, including General Psychology, Psychology of Human Sexuality, Biological Psychology, Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, and Abnormal Psychology, earning A's and A+s in all of them. My academic journey has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of psychological concepts along with their biological underpinnings. In addition to my coursework, I gained practical experience in psychology and psychiatry working at the Stress and Neuroimaging Lab at UCSD and the San Diego VA, where I primarily worked with veterans suffering from PTSD. This hands-on experience has deepened my insight into the psychological challenges faced by this population and enhanced my ability to teach and guide students in understanding psychiatric conditions, treatments, and how to navigate medical records. I’m passionate about helping students connect psychological concepts to real-world scenarios, fostering both their academic growth and confidence.
Elementary Math
Elementary Science
Physical Science

Examples of Expertise


Sergio has provided examples of their subject expertise by answering 3 questions submitted by students on Wyzant’s Ask an Expert.

Sergio B.'s Photo

Questions? Contact Sergio before you book.

Still have questions?

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Response time: 1 day

Ratings and Reviews


Rating

5.0 (171 ratings)
5 star
(169)
4 star
(2)
3 star
(0)
2 star
(0)
1 star
(0)

Reviews

Extremely helpful! Great tutor

Sergio goes above and beyond understanding my unique needs. He's extremely patient and was able to teach me chemistry concepts I've been struggling with for weeks in just two sessions! He prioritizes making sure you really understand certain concepts before moving on to the text topic/problem. Highly recommend! I look forward to taking future sessions with him!

Kumi, 7 lessons with Sergio

Enlightening tutor

My son used that description “enlightening” when describing Sergio. He usually doesn’t connect with online tutors, but really did with Sergio. I highly recommend him.

Cannon, 1 lesson with Sergio

Patient, Knowledgeable Tutor

Sergio is an extremely patient and empathetic tutor. My son is excelling in AP Biology because of lessons with hi. He is a extremely knowledgeable about the subject, explain complex concepts in a very easy way. He has also taught him to create mind maps to build relationships between concepts and retain the knowledge effectively. Thank you Sergio

Arunima, 17 lessons with Sergio

Very patient and helpful tutor.

Sergio has helped me study for my chemistry exam and has been very patient and helpful. His patience and clear explanations make difficult topics seem like a breeze. Each session focuses on your needs and helps studying feel much more efficient.

Polina, 10 lessons with Sergio

Great tutor!

Sergio is an engaging and competent Biology tutor. He teaches my daughter AP Biology. She feels comfortable and enjoys her lessons with him. Sergo can tailor the lessons around my daughter's needs and will leave helpful feedback after every lesson. My daughter enjoys the weekly meeting with Sergio, and I will highly recommend him to any parent!

Hui, 22 lessons with Sergio

Excellent Tutor

I wanted help to review concepts from my organic chemistry class before exams, so I decided to book a tutoring session with Sergio B.. He was very knowledgeable and explained topics thoroughly within the designated time. After our sessions, I had a clear understanding of the material and was able to ace my exams. I highly recommend his tutoring services, especially for pre-med students!

Emma, 3 lessons with Sergio

Sergio is an excellent tutor

I had an exam coming up, and I needed help preparing for it. Sergio was patient and knowledgeable. I highly recommend him for anyone needing help with their organic chemistry courses.

Nestor, 4 lessons with Sergio

great tutor

I had an exam coming up and i needed help preparing for it. Sergio was patient and knowledgeable. I highly recommend him for anyone needing help with their organic chemistry courses.

Nestor, 4 lessons with Sergio

Great tutor!

Sergio was patient, especially when I didn't know much about the concepts from the start which I appreciated. He was also knowledgeable and could teach in-depth about a wide variety of concepts right away.

Yeonjoo, 1 lesson with Sergio

GEN CHEM II

Sergio knows what he is teaching. Sergio helped me understand the concepts that I didn't understand in class, by explaining the concepts the way I can best understand it.

Ehtheyu, 26 lessons with Sergio
Hourly Rate: $200
Response time: 1 day
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