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MIT PhD and former JPL Engineer, Math and Science Tutoring
Julie J.

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Hourly Rate: $75

About Julie


Bio

I help students build real understanding and confidence in math and physics through hands-on, “learning by doing” lessons in real-world environments. I currently teach learners of all ages as a Naturalist at Seacoast Science Center, where I lead marine science experiences that bring marine science concepts to life.

My background combines professional experience with years of teaching experience. I’m a former NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory mechanical engineer and hold a PhD in Physical...

I help students build real understanding and confidence in math and physics through hands-on, “learning by doing” lessons in real-world environments. I currently teach learners of all ages as a Naturalist at Seacoast Science Center, where I lead marine science experiences that bring marine science concepts to life.

My background combines professional experience with years of teaching experience. I’m a former NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory mechanical engineer and hold a PhD in Physical Oceanography from the MIT–Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Joint Program. I also earned bachelor’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Physics from Bucknell University, where I worked as a tutor, teaching assistant, and physics laboratory instructor.

At MIT, I taught summer math review courses for incoming graduate students, covering calculus, differential equations, and numerical methods. I’ve also developed K–12 math and science outreach programs, mentored graduate researchers in ocean physics, and taught students ranging from preschool through PhD level.

My teaching philosophy:
Math and physics are absolutely within reach, but pressure and frustration can sometimes get in the way. My goal is to remove that pressure, meet students where they are, and help build understanding by providing a space to learn in a way that works for each student. I focus on:

Building confidence alongside skills
Adapting to different learning styles
Using real-world examples and hands-on problem solving
Breaking complex topics into manageable pieces
Creating a supportive, low-stress learning environment

I hold a Kaufman Teaching Certificate from MIT and have experience working with diverse learners. Every student is unique, so I welcome feedback and tailor sessions to match individual goals, whether that’s homework help, test prep, catching up, or getting ahead.

If you’re looking for a supportive tutor who can make math and physics click, feel free to reach out with questions or to schedule a lesson!


Education

Bucknell University
Mech Eng and Physics
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
PhD

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $75
  • Rate details: I offer discounted group rates, please get in touch to discuss!
  • Lesson cancellation: 24 hours notice required
  • Background check passed on 4/10/2026

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Approved Subjects

Algebra 2

Algebra 2

As a former JPL engineer and PhD scientist, I have a deep math background spanning prealgebra through to calculus and differential equations. I find that for some students, Algebra is not particularly intuitive, so I enjoy finding ways to connect Algebra to real word situations. I have experience tutoring high school and undergraduate Algebra to wide range of students, from 8th graders to adult learners.
Calculus

Calculus

I have a PhD from the MIT, Woods Hole Joint Program in physical oceanography, which relies heavily on applied calculus. I am experienced at applying calculus to real world problems to bring them to life and help students learn. I've also tutored undergraduate and high school calculus and taught summer math review, including differential equations, to incoming MIT graduate students. Prior to my time at MIT, I used calculus concepts in the thermal design of spacecraft hardware at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Physics

Physics

I have a PhD in ocean physics from MIT and have been tutoring high school and college level physics since 2004. I also was a teaching assistant and physics lab instructor for introductory college physics 1 and 2, with unanimously positive feedback from students.
Prealgebra

Prealgebra

As a former JPL engineer and PhD scientist, I have a deep math background spanning prealgebra through to calculus and differential equations. I truly enjoy working with students to build a real understanding of math concepts and tying math to real world situations. Prealgebra is one of my favorite subjects to tutor because it gives us a new way to describe the world around us!
Precalculus

Precalculus

I have successfully tutored high school, community college, and undergraduate calculus students online and in-person. My students have gone from failing to passing college precalculus and have improved their high school AP Precalculus exam scores to meet their goals.
Algebra 1
Julie J.'s Photo

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Hourly Rate: $75
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