Experienced Algebra and Calculus Tutor

Erika A.

I'm a science enthusiast with a knack for puns, and I aim to make learning both enjoyable and accessible. I graduated from Truman State University with a bachelor’s in chemistry and a minor in mathematics. My passion for both subjects led me to serve as president of the chemistry club and vice president of the math club. After earning my degree, I entered the quality control field, where I worked with FDA-regulated pharmaceuticals for both humans and animals, as well as medical devices.

My tutoring journey began after my freshman year of college. Though the math department required tutors to have completed calculus II, they made an exception for me. I quickly developed a love for tutoring, feeling that I was truly making a positive impact. I tutored both one-on-one and in group settings, serving as a supplemental instructor for specific courses, and also worked as a teaching assistant for an organic chemistry professor. Over the years, I’ve tutored a wide range of subjects, from algebra to calculus II, and various chemistry courses.

I take a holistic approach to tutoring, focusing not just on the immediate problem but also on how the skill applies in the future. Rather than simply providing the answer, I ask students to think through the problem—what they believe is being asked and how they might approach solving it. This encourages them to engage more deeply with the material and strengthens their critical thinking skills, preparing them for challenges in exams, homework, and life. My goal is to make learning as fun and engaging as possible.

When I’m not tutoring, you can find me fixing high-pressure liquid chromatography instruments, tearing them down and putting them back together. I’m also an avid reader and outdoor enthusiast, enjoying hiking, camping, and backpacking. Currently, I live in a converted church dating back to the 1850s!