"Over the years I’ve taught and mentored students in physics and math at many levels, from high school science fairs to graduate research projects. At UCSB I helped establish the Learning Assistant program, coordinated tutorials, and mentored interns in laboratory settings. What I’ve seen is that the strongest learning happens when students are actively engaged — talking through ideas, working problems together, and teaching each other. My role is not simply to provide answers, but to set clear expectations, keep discussions moving, and ask the kinds of questions that push students to think more deeply.

My philosophy is straightforward: students learn best when they take ownership of the process. I aim to make learning lively, actively working through problems, exchanging ideas, and building understanding together. I see myself as a guide in that process, encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones and helping them recognize that they often know more than they realize. I want students to move beyond memorization, toward clear reasoning, effective communication, and trust in their own understanding. My ultimate goal is for students to learn to teach themselves." less...