If it were not for my own middle school math teacher, I may never have become a certified math teacher with a Master’s degree in Education myself. In elementary and middle school, I struggled significantly with math and often believed the familiar phrase, “I can’t do math.” Everything changed in eighth grade when a teacher noticed me, believed in me, and showed that they genuinely cared about my success. That belief transformed my confidence and helped me see myself as someone who could...
If it were not for my own middle school math teacher, I may never have become a certified math teacher with a Master’s degree in Education myself. In elementary and middle school, I struggled significantly with math and often believed the familiar phrase, “I can’t do math.” Everything changed in eighth grade when a teacher noticed me, believed in me, and showed that they genuinely cared about my success. That belief transformed my confidence and helped me see myself as someone who could understand and enjoy math. As my confidence grew, so did my interest in the subject, eventually leading me to begin tutoring Algebra 1 in tenth grade. I continued tutoring Algebra 1 and 2 throughout high school and college, experiences that confirmed my desire to support students who feel discouraged or disconnected from math.
I pursued Secondary Math Education with a minor in Urban Studies to intentionally combine my passions for mathematics, equity, and education. I am certified to teach grades 7–12 mathematics in both Michigan and Tennessee, and I will be graduating with my Master’s in Education in May 2026. My teaching and tutoring experience includes working with middle and high school students in classroom settings and through one-on-one support. My approach emphasizes conceptual understanding, sense-making, and building strong math identity, rather than memorization or speed. I am especially committed to supporting students who experience math anxiety or lack confidence, helping them feel a sense of belonging and capability in math. One of my goals in tutoring is to help students shift from saying “I can’t do math” to more growth-mindset thinking, where mistakes are part of learning and progress feels possible. Having once been a student who struggled myself, I understand how powerful it can be to have someone who believes in you and supports your growth, and I strive to be that person for every student I tutor.