"Is it possible to understand a history book in a week? How do you craft a compelling personal statement for college admissions? How do you make—or pinpoint—an academic argument? These are all questions I help students answer, breaking complex ideas into clear, intuitive steps.

I am a doctoral candidate in Architecture (History, Theory, and Society) at UC Berkeley, where I have taught courses in architectural history and American studies. I also hold a Master’s degree in Public History, giving me expertise in American history as it comes alive in museums, archives, and historic preservation. My research and teaching focus on the late 19th century to the present, with special interest in the American West and South, the intersections of built and natural environments, and the history of ideas such as transcendentalism. My work has earned numerous awards, grants, and fellowships, reflecting both scholarly strength and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.

In addition to university teaching, I work as an admissions essay editor for Solomon Admissions Consulting, where I have edited numerous college and graduate admissions essays and short-answer responses. I also serve as a research mentor for Solomon, Lumiere Education, and Hugo Mentors, supporting students as they develop original, evidence-based projects and learn how to frame strong arguments. One of my recent high school mentees (who began with no research experience) went on to publish her paper in a peer-reviewed journal just months after our work together.

In both editing and teaching, I prioritize clarity, real-world connections, and organizing ideas in ways that support long-term understanding. I take time to learn each student’s needs and help them discover strategies that work best while building confidence and independent thinking. My goal is to help students succeed in the present and develop skills in writing, research, and critical thinking that serve them well beyond our sessions." less...