"Hi, I'm Lily! I have a passion for making difficult topics understandable to learners of all types. I have a B.A. in Mathematics, and was a Teaching Assistant for a class in Mathematical Cryptography for two semesters. Before that, I worked at Mathnasium, where I executed personalized development plans for students K-12 designed to fill their gaps in knowledge, so they could succeed in their current math classes.

In both settings, I provided homework help, questioning the student to guide them in the right direction rather than feeding them steps directly. I provide smaller problems and explanations of root concepts in order to build up to the more complex problems on their homework.

I also like to slip enrichment into each lesson, showing students concepts off the beaten track that relate to mathematics but are more engaging than classwork. For example, I've taught basic number theory to a 13-year-old and basic abstract algebra to my little sister, because some of the concepts are much simpler than many people believe. These forays give students a wider perspective into more interesting types of math. I used to teach my Mathnasium students modular origami with sticky notes while they were waiting to get picked up, and showed them how it connects to geometry. I brought books to work that told fictional stories with a mathematical component. Over time, these students grew to appreciate math rather than dreading it.

On a more personal level, I grew up homeschooled. My mother was a high school math teacher and a tutor herself. I bring a nontraditional attitude to teaching that goes beyond what is taught in schools today.

In addition to math, I spent two years in high school as a Latin tutor at every level from 100 to AP, helping my fellow students succeed and improve their grades. I placed 16th in the nation at the National Latin Convention and continued my studies in college as an elective. I would love to return to this subject with any student who needs a little extra help." less...