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Math, Science, English and more: Affordable and Flexible Tutor!
Oly K.

4.9 (95 ratings)

330 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee
Hourly Rate: $40
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About Oly

Bio

Hello, prospective student! I'm Nyx.

I have a B.Sc. in Psychology (Neuroscience) from UC San Diego and an M.Sc. in Neuroscience from UT Dallas. I use what I learned there to tailor every session to the way you learn best.

I've been tutoring since 2006 and have taught in classrooms from 5th–12th grade (with a Science teaching certificate for grades 7–12), as well as college-level neuroscience, physics, economics, statistics, and biochemistry, and have run test prep for the SAT, ACT, GRE,...

Hello, prospective student! I'm Nyx.

I have a B.Sc. in Psychology (Neuroscience) from UC San Diego and an M.Sc. in Neuroscience from UT Dallas. I use what I learned there to tailor every session to the way you learn best.

I've been tutoring since 2006 and have taught in classrooms from 5th–12th grade (with a Science teaching certificate for grades 7–12), as well as college-level neuroscience, physics, economics, statistics, and biochemistry, and have run test prep for the SAT, ACT, GRE, etc. through official test prep companies.

Beyond the sciences, I've run creative writing and poetry workshops, write and present research papers and proposals, and help polish up college essays. I'm also proficient in Spanish and Bengali. If you're wondering whether I cover your subject, just ask — I've probably done it!

My teaching style is very friendly, more like a peer than a stuffy teacher. and I'm upfront about my academic struggles and joys. I also love learning through play. (One of my students learned a whole summer's worth of math through board games, and by the end she was beating me fair and square!) Overall, our sessions will be interactive, flexible, and built around you — whether that means solidifying foundations, tackling problem areas, or reframing tricky concepts. I arrive prepared with helpful resources so your time is never wasted.

Some policies to note:
- Cancellations within 24 hours of a session are charged half the rate, within 12 hours, the full rate. Please reach me by phone or text to cancel as soon as you know you need to!
- Travel fees apply for longer distances. I'm happy to meet at my place or at a library or cafe near me to save you that cost.
- I'm reachable during most standard hours and happy to take questions. Please note that extended time providing help outside sessions may be billed.

I'd like to finish by saying that every student can do well with the right approach and I hope every person can love learning as much as I do.
I look forward to working with you!

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Education

University of California: San Diego
Psychology - Neuroscience
Michigan Technological University
Graduate Coursework
University of Texas at Dallas
Masters

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $40
  • Rate details: Rates vary based on subject difficulty, materials, and driving distance. Group rates are cheaper per person. Please contact me for details.
  • Lesson cancellation: 24 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 9/14/2015

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Approved Subjects

ACT English

ACT English

The English test is a 75-question, 45-minute test, covering punctuation, grammar and usage, sentence structure, completion strategy, organization, style. When I took the test as a high school student, I scored a 34 out of 36 possible points even while ill. While the SAT is the standard most people know, the ACT focuses more on context, and many students do better on it than the SAT, so I'd highly recommend it.
ACT Math

ACT Math

The ACT Mathematics Test is a 60-question, 60-minute test designed to measure the mathematical skills students have typically acquired in courses taken by the end of 11th grade. There are multiple-choice questions that require you to use reasoning skills to solve practical problems, and you're required to know some basic formulas, but otherwise, it's very straightforward and most students do as well if not better on the ACT math section than the SAT. I scored a 36 out of 36 when I took it.
ACT Reading

ACT Reading

The Reading Test is a 40-question, 35-minute test that measures your reading comprehension. You're asked to read several passages and answer questions that show your understanding of what is directly stated and statements with implied meanings. You must determine main ideas, locate and interpret significant details, understand sequences of events, make comparisons, comprehend cause-effect relationships, determine the meaning of context-dependent words, phrases, and statements, draw generalizations and analyze the author's or narrator's voice and method. I scored a 35 out of 36 on this section when I took the exam back in high school.
ACT Science

ACT Science

The Science Test is a 40-question, 35-minute test that measures the skills required in the natural sciences: interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem solving. You are not permitted to use a calculator but you won't need one. The test presents several sets of scientific information, each followed by a number of multiple-choice test questions. The scientific information is presented in one of three different formats: data representation (graphs, tables, and other schematic forms), research summaries (descriptions of one or more related experiments), or conflicting viewpoints (expressions of several related hypotheses or views that are inconsistent with one another). The questions require you to recognize and understand the basic features of the provided information, examine critically the relationship between the information provided and the conclusions drawn or hypotheses developed, generalize from given information and draw conclusions, gain new information, and make predictions. While it sounds complicated, most of the questions boil down to pure logic, and aren't too difficult.
Algebra 1

Algebra 1

Main components of Algebra 1 include: Expressions, Positive and Negative Numbers, Solving Equations and Inequalities, Relations and Functions, Linear Equations, Polynomials, Factoring, Systems of Equations, Data Analysis and Square Roots. I tend to go through worksheets to help reinforce the skills required to succeed in Algebra, without putting too much pressure on the student.
Algebra 2

Algebra 2

Algebra 2 continues what students learn in Algebra 1, reviewing linear equations, systems and inequalities before moving on to quadratic, exponential and logarithmic equations. Rational equations and functions continue into discrete math and introductions of trigonometry and conic sections. Algebra 2 is usually best learned out of a textbook.
Biology

Biology

Having taken AP Biology in high school, and then continued far into the field with neuroscience, physiology and biochemistry, I can teach any area of biology through college level. What many students see as memorization, I've always viewed as a web of concepts, a complex story of how life works within us and around us. Biology is one of my favorite subjects, both for learning and teaching.
Calculus

Calculus

Calculus is a challenging subject, with the typical syllabus covering Exponential and Inverse Functions, Logarithms, Limits and Derivatives, The Precise Definition of a Limit, Continuity, The Derivative as a Function, Derivatives of Trigonometric Functions, The Chain Rule, Higher Derivatives, Linear Approximations and Differentials, Mean Value Theorem, Indeterminate Forms of Derivatives and L'Hospital's Rule, Optimization Problems, Antiderivatives, The Definite Integraland The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, Indefinite Integrals and the Total Change Theorem and The Substitution Rule.
Chemistry

Chemistry

Chemistry is a difficult subject, dealing with molecular structures and the interactions of molecules on scales smaller than we can see, but with effects that we can see on a larger scale. Most chemistry classes have an intensive lab, a touch of physics, and cover topics from ion bonding to thermochemistry.
Drawing

Drawing

I have taken both technical drawing classes and been a long-time artist in multiple mediums. Drawing and sketching techniques with graphite, pencil, ink, and brushes are all familiar territory for me.
Elementary (K-6th)

Elementary (K-6th)

I am very good with children, as I have somewhat of a child's mind myself. If taught correctly, kids are very fast learners, and can often be challenged to improve their knowledge base drastically through fun activities. Depending on the age of the student [since k-6 is a very wide range in maturity and academic ability], different classes need to be taught in different ways. I am very flexible, so changing my teaching style for a student is relatively easy for me. Also, it is very important to incorporate the individual child's interests. For example, an 8-year-old who loves sports will understand soccer analogies for math better than cooking analogies. Encouragement is key as well. Children need to know if they are going in the right direction, or they may lose interest in learning. Overall, it is difficult to say exactly what I would have to do for any given subject within this range because it is so independently student-based. However, I can guarantee that my student will love the classes they take and want to learn even more.
Elementary Math

Elementary Math

Elementary math isn't stressed nearly enough in schools, which leads to many students struggling with math and science later on. Basic skills, like learning how to add, multiply and use order of operations quickly, are absolutely essential for success later in life, no matter what occupation. I try to make math games and engage kids on a level they enjoy so that they can learn quickly and have fun with it.
Elementary Science

Elementary Science

Elementary science is often overlooked as less important just because it looks at more basic topics, but it is the source of much curiosity and inspiration in young people. From geology to water cycles to astronomy to flora and fauna, elementary science is a wonderful subject to explore and keeps people intrigued. I try to make my science lessons as hands-on as possible, and can either adhere to a curriculum or just explore whatever is of most interest and develop the student's interest.
English

English

Basic English skills are found lacking in many people even through high school and college, so it's important for people to understand grammar and usage properly from the very beginning. I can help avoid common mistakes, help identify verb tenses, give critique on writing, and more, whether you're just starting to read and write or you're writing a novel or preparing for an exam.
ESL/ESOL

ESL/ESOL

I have many years of experience teaching ESL. I've taught people of many different backgrounds and ages, some through pictures, some through multilingual books, and some through tools of their trade, as needed for the student.
Genetics

Genetics

I have taken both AP Biology and college level genetics and am intimately familiar with the workings of both human and bacterial genomes.
Geometry

Geometry

Geometry comes in different levels, starting from the most basic of identifying polygons to the more advanced of finding perimeters, to the most advanced of integrating across a surface to find the volume of an object. At all levels, I can make the subject very hands-on or logic-based on paper, as suits the student.
Grammar

Grammar

Their or they're? Whether or weather? Grammar is the most difficult part of the English language, and can be difficult to tackle at any level. However, there are many easy tips and tricks that can make learning grammar a much less tedious process. Most of my grammar lessons focus on basic rules that make writing more comprehensive and flow better, while following syntax.
Literature

Literature

Whether tackling Shel Silverstein or Shakespeare, there are many ways that people go about interpreting literature. I tend to take a purist view, read into only what's on paper instead of hypothesizing about the author's intentions and history. As a lover of reading, literature is something I enjoy and try to make sure my students love too.
Martial Arts

Martial Arts

I have done karate, aikido, hapkido, and am currently a conditional black belt in tae kwon do. I have taught tae kwon do for years as well, and know both forms and sparring skills.
Microbiology

Microbiology

I was a microbiology major at UCSD for two years and covered a wide range of classes, from bacterial genomes to organic chemistry.
Physical Science

Physical Science

Physical Science covers the basics of physics, chemistry, astronomy and geology. From gravity and energy to other planets to plate tectonics, much of physical science is based off of being able to read charts, graphs, and interpret visual data.
Physics

Physics

Physics has an older and well known side: classical mechanics, acoustics, optics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism, and a newer side: quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics. The former is more popularly taught at lower levels, the latter at more advanced levels since it requires more calculus. However, all of it is equally fascinating, since physics boils down to our attempts at understanding the world around us.
Piano

Piano

I have taken piano lessons for six years, and have trained in music for 16 years. My piano teacher was a student of Juilliard School of Music, and was well versed in music theory as well. He passed much of this knowledge down to me during my high school years. I am patient and can teach basic and intermediate piano skills to children or adults. My lessons will involve an understanding of theory, mechanics and finger exercises, as well as a main recital-type piece.
Prealgebra

Prealgebra

Pre-algebra encompasses everything from basic operations and fractions and decimals to statistics, probability and geometry. It also discusses ratios and percentages in detail, and generally is the foundation for all basic calculations that people have to do in everyday life, and therefore is one of the most important subjects.
Precalculus

Precalculus

Precalculus involves: Coordinate Geometry, Solving Equations and Inequalities (Algebraically and Graphically), Functions (Combining, Transforming, One-to-One Functions and inverses, Modeling, Quadratics and Polynomials, Rational, Exponential, Logarithmic) and Trigonometry. It's a challenging step up from algebra but crucial to understanding Calculus.
Proofreading

Proofreading

Proofreading is absolutely essential no matter what you're writing, whether it's a document, persuasive essay, or resume. By finding and correcting typographical errors, spelling mistakes and fixing grammar and style, you can not only make a piece more readable, but make a better impression and appear more professional.
PSAT

PSAT

The PSAT is a high school aptitude test that is geared at college readiness and assessment of English, Math and Writing skills. It can also allow you to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Corporation's scholarships. It is one of the more straightforward tests offered and a good judge of college skills.
Psychology

Psychology

As a Psychology major, any branch of psychology is dear to me, and I enjoy teaching everything from social to developmental to cognitive psych. Please let me know what you're working on, and I'll let you know if I have the expertise to teach it, as I'm familiar with anything from neuroscience to criminology to the perception of sound and music.
Public Speaking

Public Speaking

I was the Director of Debate for the Mid-Atlantic (New Jersey to Virginia) for the Junior Statesmen foundation, which runs a nationwide student-governed debate and political awareness group, full with conventions and plenty of public speaking opportunities. I gave speeches, debated, and moderated talks there frequently, and have lots of experience.
Reading

Reading

Whether your Reading refers to working through a book or reading comprehension passages or learning how to summarize a story by writing book reports, I can help! Reading has been a lifelong passion of mine, and I'm familiar with both the challenges and benefits of being comfortable with reading everything from technical material to fiction.
SAT Math

SAT Math

The SAT math section tests arithmetic operations, algebra, geometry, statistics and probability. It is difficult, but often the biggest challenge is working within the time constraints given, and with the help of practice tests and training, a student can do excellently on this exam. I both proctor exams and give feedback and tutoring for the tested material.
SAT Reading

SAT Reading

The SAT reading section includes reading passages and sentence completions. It is difficult, but often the biggest challenge is working within the time constraints given, and with the help of practice tests and training, a student can do excellently on this exam. I both proctor exams and give feedback and tutoring for the tested material.
SAT Writing

SAT Writing

The writing section includes a short essay and multiple-choice questions on identifying errors and improving grammar and usage. It is difficult, but often the biggest challenge is working within the time constraints given, and with the help of practice tests and training, a student can do excellently on this exam. I both proctor exams and give feedback and tutoring for the tested material. In addition, I make sure that student essays have the necessary components that graders look for to score as highly as possible.
Spanish

Spanish

Having 5 years of Spanish training, I can teach up through AP Spanish level, as well as some levels of conversational and medical Spanish.
Statistics

Statistics

I have experience in both statistical testing for probability and finance as well as statistical analysis of data for research purposes and have taught the subject up to a Masters degree level.
Study Skills

Study Skills

Study skills are the most necessary ability in academia, and are as varied as the people requiring them. Memorization can be done by mnemonics, associations, or rote repetition. Time management is key, and some students will learn this better through written schedules, and others through strict practice and disassociating themselves from potential distractions. Every case is unique, and every study habit is important, because they will help determine how well a student learns for any and every course that they take. Classes on study skills will be geared towards the student's needs. Often times, an explanation of how to study is necessary, in addition to charts or physical tools to assist studying. In all cases, if this base is formed, students can go on to use these skills to develop their knowledge base quicker and more efficiently.
Trigonometry

Trigonometry

Trigonometry is primarily based around the sine, cosine, and tangent functions (as well as secant, cosecant and cotangent, though those are less used in school-level trigonometry). They use the properties of triangles and the unit circle to figure out the measurements of unknown variables. Once the basics are understood, it's not a difficult subject, but getting a conceptual grasp of the basics is the hardest part.
Vocabulary

Vocabulary

Most people teach vocabulary with flash cards, but I prefer concept webs, reinforcing flash card memorization with other memory strategies that are both fun and useful. Vocabulary is useful for better writing, coherent arguments, and of course, test-taking as well.
Writing

Writing

Writing is both a useful skill and potentially an enjoyable one too. From technical writing of reports, labs, and essays, to creative writing of stories, poetry, and more, I have the expertise needed to help improve style, form, and function. Whether you're constructing sentences, logical arguments, or entire story plots, I can help!
Anatomy
Biochemistry
Geography
GRE
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Word
Physiology
Spelling
TOEFL

Examples of Expertise

Oly has provided examples of their subject expertise by answering 3 questions submitted by students on Wyzant’s Ask an Expert.

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Ratings and Reviews

Rating

4.9 (95 ratings)
5 star
(89)
4 star
(3)
3 star
(2)
2 star
(0)
1 star
(1)

Reviews

Great Tutor

Oly has tutored my daughter in SAT reading. My daughter has gained confidence and a better understanding of the SAT Reading section. Oly broke down the reading section teaching principles and clues to help her answer the questions. Oly gave her tips for example, underlining important facts in each paragraph so she can answer questions quicker. She scored over 100 points higher in reading section on her SAT practice test working less then one month with Oly! Thank You Oly looking forward to see score on SAT.

MaryJo, 4 lessons with Oly

Oly knows how to get through to her student!

Oly is that rare breed of educator who knows how to empower her student and break through any resistance to learning, he or she may have. My son is actually looking forward to his next lesson. Thanks Oly, You have managed to turn my son into an enthusiastic learner.

Matt, 3 lessons with Oly

Very knowledgeable and caring

Oly K. is a very knowledgeable and caring tutor. My daughter’s confidence level grew when she has been started tutoring by Oly. Her Pre – AP Geometry Score also improved after her few lessons with Oly. She is very skilled in other high school subjects like Biology, computer science etc. My daughter took help from her for those areas too. I highly recommend Oly for tutoring for any interested student who wants to improve grades, build up confidence and get ahead of the class.

Ishrat, 14 lessons with Oly

Great tutor.

Oly is a great tutor. She is very helpful, informative, and knowledgeable in a wide variety of subjects. She has helped me pass a statistics course that without her help may not have gone as well. She is also very personable and has a style of teaching that takes the material more interesting and easy to understand. I would definitely recommend her for a tutor.

Tom, 4 lessons with Oly

Great tutor

We chose Oly to help our daughter (prepares for grade 7) in Math. Oly reviewed what my daughter was covered in grade 6 and gave her assistance/tips and recommended study materials to improve her skills in math. She goes over each step of the math problems systematically and make sure my daughter understands it thoroughly. I find that my daughter really likes her teaching style and we feel that every tutoring session help her a lot. Oly is a very dedicated tutor with mastery of the subject and always on time. I would highly recommend Oly's tutoring.

Gamini, 18 lessons with Oly

Awesome tutor!

Oly was very patient and helpful. I wouldn't of passed my statistics class if it weren't for her. I definitely recommend her as a tutor.

Mio, 4 lessons with Oly

8th Grade Math Help + Algebra prep for High School

Oly is currently working with my daughter as she prepares for the 8th grade and also since she wanted to get prepared for Algebra knowing the transition from 8th grade to high school math will be a change. Oly has met with my daughter for two sessions and it is going very well. She assessed where she is initially by taking a variety of math concepts and also reviewing 7th grade math to understand her knowledge. With the second class she taught her 8th grade concepts and the beginnings of Algebra. Oly is very patient and knowledgeable and my daughter appreciates the approach she is taking to help her learn. We anticipate more sessions with Oly and we would highly recommend her for parents looking for a motivated and energetic instructor.

Kenneth, 4 lessons with Oly
Hourly Rate: $40
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