Josh C.

Josh earned his Master’s in Science Education from Rutgers, where he also studied Physics with minors in Math and Education. Since 2010, he has been helping students through private tutoring, Rutgers programs, and various companies—spending nearly 10,000 hours working one-on-one with learners of all levels.

What Josh loves most about teaching is making tough subjects like Physics and Math feel less intimidating. He focuses on helping students really understand the concepts behind the equations, not just memorize steps. Connecting abstract equations to real-world examples is of paramount importance when making things click, and whenever possible, Josh has students explain the material back to him—it’s a great way to build confidence and deepen understanding. Seeing that growth in students is Josh teaches, and he would be excited to help you get there as well.

In his free time, Josh likes to annoy his cat and play strategy games of various types to keep his mind sharp. Eventually, his cat decides they need attention, and then Josh gets to have the extra difficulty of playing while maneuvering around a cat between his face and the screen. It’s a good life.

Christopher H.

Christopher is a native Austinite with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Texas at Austin and certification to teach grades 7–12 in Composite Sciences through the UTeach program. He has taught Chemistry, Physics, and Math in both Temple ISD and Austin ISD, and currently serves as a substitute teacher for KIPP and IDEA public schools, working with students in grades 3–12.

With years of classroom experience, Christopher skillfully integrates multiple teaching methodologies such as blended and flipped learning, standards-based grading, and lab-based instruction to meet students where they are and help them excel. He has extensive experience supporting learners with 504, ELL, and Special Education accommodations, ensuring that each student receives personalized, effective support.

Christopher takes a personal interest in helping students develop confidence and critical thinking skills in math and science, encouraging them to explain their reasoning and connect concepts to real-world applications. Outside of academics, he enjoys exploring his passion for culinary arts and nutrition, along with hobbies such as running, community service, drawing, and bouldering.

Jarif Y.

Jarif is a fourth-year Computer Science student at Western University with a strong background in both math and computer science. He has experience tutoring high school students in subjects such as calculus, algebra, and programming, helping them strengthen their problem-solving skills and build confidence in their understanding. Jarif focuses on making complex ideas easy to grasp by breaking them down into simple, logical steps. He’s patient, approachable, and enjoys working on coding projects and teaching computer science or math-related concepts.

Courses Jarif can Tutor at University Level:
CS1026: “Introduction to Programming”
CS1027: “Data Structures and Algorithms”
CS1033: “Multimedia and Communication
CS2010: “Data Analytics: Principles and Tools”
CALCULUS1000: “Calculus I”
MATH1228: “Methods of Matrix Algebra”
MATH1229: “Applied Linear Algebra”

ZEYNEP D.

Zeynep is a passionate tutor with a strong background in math, science, and molecular biology, holding an Honours Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from the University of Toronto. Having experienced firsthand the impact of great tutoring, she understands how a supportive, clear, and engaging approach can transform a subject from intimidating to inspiring, boosting confidence, sparking curiosity, and encouraging a love of learning. She has tutored children in her home country simply out of a desire to help them succeed and believes in creating an interactive environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and ultimately mastering their subjects. Outside of teaching, Zeynep enjoys baking (banana bread is her specialty), exploring new recipes, playing sports (tennis, sailing, beach volleyball) and keeping up with the latest scientific discoveries, bringing the same patience, creativity, and enthusiasm to tutoring that she does to everything she loves.

JACOB C.

Jacob is a dedicated educator with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a strong foundation in Math and the Sciences. Before completing his degree in Psychology, he studied engineering, which deepened his analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. This combination of scientific and psychological training allows him to approach learning from both a logical and human-centered perspective.

Currently, Jacob is completing his Bachelor of Education at St. Mary’s University, where he is training to become a certified teacher. He brings over two years of experience working in classroom environments and providing one-on-one tutoring for students of various ages and learning styles.

Jacob is passionate about helping students not only understand academic content but also develop confidence and curiosity in their learning. His tutoring sessions are known for being supportive, clear, and engaging, helping students build strong foundations while encouraging independent thinking. Whether guiding a student through a challenging math problem or helping them strengthen study habits, Jacob emphasizes patience, adaptability, and growth.

SOPHIE M.

Sophie M. is pursuing her Bachelor of Education and holds a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering. She brings a strong background in mathematics and science to her work in education. She is fluent in English and French. She supports students in their academic and personal growth, as a Learning Assistant at Foundations for the Future Charter Academy (FFCA). She previously served as a Teacher Assistant at La Mosaïque School, where she gained valuable experience supporting diverse learners in a French environment.

Sophie is passionate about helping students develop confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills. She values inclusion, collaboration, and emotional support, and strives to create a positive learning atmosphere where every student feels respected and motivated to succeed.

With her combination of analytical skills, teaching experience, and genuine care for student well-being, Sophie is dedicated to promoting academic excellence and lifelong learning through her role as an academic tutor.

Brian V.

Brian holds a Ph.D. in Physics from UC San Diego, where he spent over five years as a graduate teaching assistant. With the long-term goal of becoming a professor, he is deeply committed to teaching and mentoring others to “give back” his knowledge. In 2023, he received the Distinguished Senior Graduate Teaching Award from the department in recognition of his dedication in this area.

Having both studied and taught math and physics for many years, Brian understands the challenges that often come when learning these subjects. His approach is to guide students through example problems by breaking them down into clear, manageable steps. He believes that, with the right guidance, every student can develop the skills and confidence to solve problems independently.

In his free time, Brian enjoys sailing with the Maritime Museum of San Diego—a hobby that, much like teaching, requires patience and a good sense of direction!

Matthew D.

Matthew grew up in Brenham, TX, and earned his Bachelor of Science in Physics from the University of Texas at San Antonio, graduating magna cum laude. During his studies, he discovered his passion for teaching and helping students understand math and physics in ways that make sense to them.

Since 2021, Matthew has been a full-time educator in the Austin area, teaching and tutoring a wide range of subjects, including Pre-Calculus, Calculus I & II, Geometry, Algebra, and AP Physics. His teaching philosophy centers on building a strong conceptual foundation and adapting lessons to each student’s unique way of thinking. He has also worked successfully with students with learning differences such as dyscalculia, dysgraphia, ADHD, and autism.

Matthew’s structured yet flexible approach helps students gain both confidence and mastery in their coursework. He is known for his patience, clear explanations, and ability to make challenging material approachable.

Outside of teaching, Matthew enjoys hiking, biking, reading, playing volleyball, and exploring new restaurants around Austin. (Fun fact: he once hacked Mario Kart Wii to add custom races!)

Jason L.

Jason is currently a Finance major at the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin and will be joining Bank of America this upcoming summer. Jason previously served as a STEM tutor for a non-profit organization, where his lessons in robotics and related fields reached more than 500 students.

He has extensive experience working with peers and younger students in mathematics, reading, and business fundamentals, including his involvement with DECA competitions. Jason brings patience, structure, and creativity to each session, helping students build both confidence and mastery in their coursework.

As a high school math tutor, Jason specializes in helping students strengthen their understanding of algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus while developing the critical thinking skills needed for long-term success. He believes that every student learns best when lessons are personalized and connected to their individual interests.

Outside of academics, Jason enjoys exploring new restaurants, hiking, and playing pickleball.

Anthony (AJ) L.B.

Anthony (“AJ”) La Barca is a Ph.D. student in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder. He holds a B.S. in Physics & Astronomy with minors in Computer Science, Mathematics, and Music from the University of Rochester. AJ has extensive experience tutoring and teaching at the middle-school, high-school, and collegiate levels, serving as a teaching assistant in both physics and aerospace engineering courses. Proficient across math, physics, computer science, and engineering topics, he strives to make complex concepts accessible and engaging for students of all levels. Outside of academia, AJ is an avid rock climber, skier, and photographer, often combining his love for science and the outdoors through astrophotography.