I have always loved mathematics. It brings me joy; it grounds me. In a world that can often feel messy and unpredictable, there is something deeply satisfying about following an idea, discovering a pattern, or uncovering a connection that suddenly makes everything click. 

What set me on the path toward mathematics education was an experience in middle school. After taking the SAT through a gifted education program, I was surprised to hear many of the high school students around me struggling with mathematical ideas that seemed like they should have become more familiar with over time. Curious, I brought this observation to my father, a physics professor, who shared that he saw similar challenges among his own college students.

That conversation sparked a question that stayed with me:

Why do so many students struggle with foundational mathematical understanding, even after years of mathematics courses?

Over the following years, I found myself paying attention to factors that shaped both my own experiences and those of my classmates: intrinsic and extrinsic motivations, teaching approaches, standardized testing, and educational environments.

Eventually, that question evolved into another: 

How can we help students develop deeper understanding and stronger quantitative reasoning?

Today, that question continues to guide my work with students. Whether I am helping a student strengthen foundational skills, prepare for an AP exam, navigate college calculus, or rebuild confidence after years of frustration, my goal is the same: to create a space where students feel safe enough to try, supported enough to persist, and challenged enough to progress as they develop genuine understanding, confidence in their thinking, and the ability to approach new challenges with curiosity and independence.

Over the past decade, I have worked with students across a wide range of mathematical subjects and levels, from foundational algebra and geometry through AP Calculus, college calculus, and statistics.

My experience spans one-on-one tutoring, small-group instruction, college mathematics support, and classroom teaching. I have worked with students who are struggling to build foundational skills, students preparing for advanced coursework, and students pursuing STEM pathways at the high school and college levels.

Education & Certification

• Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies, Vassar College

• Correlate in Mathematics, Vassar College

• Additional mathematics coursework at East Stroudsburg University to complete equivalent of a bachelor's degree in mathematics

• Postbaccalaureate Teacher Preparation, East Stroudsburg University

• Pennsylvania Secondary Mathematics Teaching Certificate (Grades 7-12)

• Graduate coursework in Mathematics Education

Teaching & Tutoring Experience

• Independent Mathematics Tutor & Educator

• Mathematics Tutor, Franklin Yard

• Professional Mathematics Tutor, Cedar Crest College

• Adjunct Faculty, Cedar Crest College

• High School Mathematics Teacher, Parkland School District

• Secondary Mathematics Teacher, Summit School of the Poconos

• Calculus I Tutor, Outlier.org

• Mathematics Question Center Tutor, East Stroudsburg University

• Mathematics Supplemental Instructor, Vassar College

Areas of Focus

• Algebra & Geometry Foundations

• Trigonometry & Precalculus

• AP Calculus AB & BC

• College Calculus I & II

• Statistics & AP Statistics

• College Readiness & Mathematical Problem Solving

Outside of mathematics education, music has been a lifelong source of joy. I enjoy singing, playing flute and piccolo, and participating in community ensembles and theatre productions.

I am also passionate about reducing the stigma surrounding physical and mental health. I believe everyone deserves understanding, support, opportunities for self-advocacy, and access to what helps them succeed.

And I am a proud cat mom to a very pretty but very moody senior lady. If you work with me, you might see her! Silvia frequently supervises sessions on- and off-camera. The two of us are based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.