PhD-trained Tutor in Science, Writing, and Math

Sophie C.

I hold a PhD in Evolutionary Biology from the University of Chicago, along with an MS in the same field and a BA in Biology from Lehman College. During graduate school, teaching and mentorship were important parts of my development as an educator. Over the course of my academic training and research career, I developed strong skills in writing, biology, data analysis, research design, and scientific communication, and I regularly translated complex material into formats that were accessible to different learners.

Teaching and mentorship were important parts of my 6-year graduate training. Through my teaching assistantships in graduate school, which were a required part of my program, I learned how to break down difficult concepts, adjust my explanations to different learning styles, and create supportive environments where students felt comfortable asking questions and building confidence. Those experiences helped me develop a pedagogy that is structured, encouraging, and student-centered: I focus on meeting students where they are, identifying gaps without judgment, and helping them build understanding step by step.

In addition to group teaching, I have 2 years of experience providing one-on-one tutoring for 6th graders. That work strengthened my ability to be patient, adaptable, and attentive to each student’s pace and confidence level. In one-on-one settings, I emphasize building trust, reinforcing foundational skills, and helping students feel proud of their progress.

As a tutor, my goal is not just to help students get the right answer, but to help them understand how to think through problems independently. I aim to create a learning environment that is encouraging, clear, and tailored to each student’s needs, whether they need help mastering content, improving study habits, or building confidence in science and quantitative subjects.