STEM Tutor | From Building Confidence to Advanced Mastery

Ryan L.

I’ve always had a lifelong love of learning, especially in mathematics, physics, and computer science. For me, teaching is perhaps the best form of learning — every time I work with a student, I get to see the material from their perspective, build a new explanation in terms they understand, and recontextualize my own understanding. It often feels as if I am learning the subject all over again. I earned my B.S. in Mathematics with minors in Physics and Computer Science from the University of Minnesota, but my passion for teaching started much earlier. All through high school and college, I found myself naturally helping classmates, leading study groups, and working one-on-one with peers who were struggling. Over time, this informal experience became a calling: I realized that helping others learn was not just rewarding, but something I wanted to dedicate myself to.

In my tutoring, I focus on seeing the subject through the student’s eyes. Everyone learns differently, so I tailor my explanations to fit the way each person thinks. I keep multiple approaches ready for every concept — whether that means using step-by-step problem solving, real-world analogies, or interactive visualizations I create in tools like Desmos and Python. My goal is not just to get students through assignments but to build real confidence and curiosity. I have experience tutoring students from middle school up through advanced college-level courses, and I’ve also worked with learners who have ADHD and dyslexia, developing personalized strategies that make learning more accessible.

Ultimately, my role as a tutor is to share my enthusiasm for learning while giving students the tools and strategies they need to succeed on their own. Whether it’s catching up on algebra, preparing for an AP exam, or exploring advanced topics like abstract algebra or machine learning, I aim to make learning both understandable and engaging.