"I am a 2033 FIDE-rated chess player (with a peak rating of 2152) with a strong competitive background. I recently graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science from the University of Michigan–Dearborn, and I bring an analytical and structured mindset into my chess instruction. I competed seriously in tournament chess through high school, gaining experience in high-pressure environments and developing a solid foundation for the game.

During my competitive years, I had the opportunity to play against several elite junior players who have since gone on to become among the world’s top professionals, including R. Praggnanandhaa and Arjun Erigaisi. Competing at that level required disciplined preparation, strong fundamentals, and the ability to think critically in complex positions. These experiences continue to shape how I approach the game and how I help students think through practical decisions at the board.

One area I particularly enjoy teaching is the endgame. In one memorable tournament game, despite being completely lost out of the opening, I was able to find counterplay and nearly save a draw through precise endgame technique. After the game, my opponent even remarked that I could have been his endgame coach. Moments like this reinforced my belief that endgames reward understanding, patience, and resourcefulness, and I emphasize these qualities when working with students.

While my formal coaching experience is limited, I have worked individually with a small number of students (aged between 10 and 14) and found that I enjoy explaining ideas through real examples and stories from my own chess journey. I believe chess is best learned through understanding rather than memorization, using game analysis and personalized feedback to support steady improvement. My goal is to create a supportive and fun learning environment where students of all levels can build confidence and learn to genuinely enjoy the game." less...