Experienced tutor in STEM subjects

Benjamin B.

I'm a graduate of Allegheny College, where I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a minor in Music Performance (Classical and Jazz Guitar). After graduating, I worked professionally as a chemist, first in Ohio, and then in the San Francisco Bay Area. In 2023, wanting to advance my career, I entered the University of Utah Chemistry PhD program, where I intend to obtain my PhD in organic chemistry. Throughout college, I tutored several student, I've been a teaching assistant for two semesters, teaching primarily general chemistry labs. These teaching experiences have been incredibly rewarding, as they have given me the opportunity to help students who are struggling find a pathway that allows them to build confidence in their ability to engage with and ultimately master difficult course material. I particularly enjoy teaching chemistry, but I am also proficient in teaching physics, mathematics, and history. When working with students, I am a firm believer in "meeting someone where they are." That is, I've found it most helpful to try to adapt material presentation to fit a student's particular learning style and pre-existing skill set rather than to force them to adapt to me. As a lifelong learner, I believe that if one approaches new challenges with both a sense of humility ("Getting better takes time and effort") and confidence ("With time and effort, I can get better"), they will be set up for success long-term. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, playing the guitar, cooking, and watching and playing baseball.