"My journey as an educator began over a decade ago at the USC music conservatory, where I immersed myself in the rich traditions of performance, composition, and theory. Those early studies set the stage for the next 15 years of my life, during which I toured the world as a jazz trumpet player and worked as a producer for top artists and major entertainment companies like Disney and Universal. Throughout my music career, teaching remained close to my heart. I offered private trumpet and piano lessons to students as young as four and as old as sixty, reminding each of them that it is never too late to embrace new challenges and master new skills. I shared insights with high school students in clinics near USC, and through volunteer opportunities at my university and the PAWS workshop, I supported learners in underprivileged areas, reaffirming my belief that passion, perseverance, and encouragement can transcend any barrier.

In time, I chose to return to academia at the University of San Francisco, where I broadened my analytical perspective by studying computer science. Graduating magna cum laude and earning a certificate of excellence in my field, I discovered ways to unite the intricacies of coding with the expressive qualities of music. While at USF, I tutored my fellow computer science students, helping them break down complex concepts and approach problems from multiple angles. This dual background inspires my teaching methods today. I blend the patience and empathy gained from guiding young musicians with the logical rigor and clarity developed through my computer science experiences. My approach is grounded in the idea that curiosity and creativity form the foundation of true understanding. Whether we are dissecting an advanced algorithm or exploring a musical composition, my ultimate goal is to help students find their own voices, develop confidence in their abilities, and emerge with the tools they need to keep learning, growing, and discovering new passions well beyond our sessions together." less...