Allison A.
Dr. Allison A, affectionately known as “Dr. Ali” by her students, is an accomplished biomedical scientist, STEM educator, and entrepreneur with an extraordinary background in scientific research and hands-on learning. With a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology, years of professional experience conducting biomedical research for military and government programs, and a passion for making science and mathematics accessible to young learners, Allison brings a unique combination of advanced scientific expertise, creativity, and real-world experience to tutoring.
Allison earned her Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and a Bachelor of Arts in Microbiology from the University of Kansas. During her graduate studies, she also served as a teaching assistant for medical and dental students, discovering how rewarding it could be to help others understand complex scientific concepts.
Following her doctoral studies, Allison built an extensive career as a biomedical research scientist, working with organizations supporting the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Army, and federal research programs. Her professional research has spanned microbiology, immunology, infectious diseases, molecular biology, respiratory infections, vaccine research, and military medicine. She has designed scientific experiments, analyzed complex data, contributed to peer-reviewed scientific publications, and worked alongside medical researchers and scientific professionals on challenging real-world problems.
Despite her highly technical background, Allison’s approach to teaching is refreshingly approachable. She believes that science and mathematics should inspire curiosity rather than intimidation and that students learn best when they are actively engaged in discovering how things work.
When the pandemic prompted Allison to begin homeschooling her own children, she discovered a new passion for creating meaningful, hands-on educational experiences. That experience eventually inspired her to establish San Antonio Techie Tots, a STEM enrichment business serving local homeschool families. Through interactive classes, camps, and educational activities, Allison has developed original STEM curricula that incorporate experiments, dissections, creative projects, field trips, early coding concepts, and collaborative learning.
Her experience working with younger students has reinforced her belief that learning can take many forms. Sometimes the best way to understand a scientific concept is through a hands-on experiment, a game, a model, or a project that allows students to explore and discover the answer for themselves. Allison strives to make even challenging material approachable by connecting academic concepts to experiences students can understand and enjoy.
Allison offers tutoring across a broad range of mathematics and science subjects, including Pre-Algebra, Algebra I & II, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Biology, AP Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, Anatomy, Pathophysiology, Physics, Physical Science, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Geology, Animal Science, and Space Science.
Her greatest academic strengths are in the biological and biomedical sciences, where her doctoral education and professional research experience provide an exceptionally deep foundation. She is particularly well suited for students studying Biology, AP Biology, Genetics, Anatomy, and other advanced life sciences, while also offering strong support in foundational mathematics and general science.
One of Allison’s greatest strengths is her ability to connect advanced scientific knowledge with age-appropriate instruction. Having taught university-level learners and developed STEM enrichment programs for children as young as four, she understands the importance of adapting explanations, activities, and expectations to the student’s developmental level and individual learning needs.
Allison also emphasizes the importance of building meaningful relationships with her students. She believes that children are more willing to ask questions, try unfamiliar approaches, and challenge themselves when they feel comfortable and supported. Her tutoring style is interactive, encouraging, and designed to build confidence alongside academic understanding.
Families appreciate Allison’s enthusiasm, creativity, and ability to bring science to life. Whether she is helping a younger student discover the excitement of scientific exploration, guiding a middle school student through foundational math and science, or supporting a high school student in advanced Biology, Allison’s goal is to help students develop genuine understanding, curiosity, and independence.
Outside of her professional work, Allison enjoys spending time with her family and continuing to explore new ways to make STEM education engaging. She is also the kind of person who took Calculus III in college simply because she thought it would be fun—a reflection of the curiosity and enthusiasm for learning that she hopes to share with every student.
Ultimately, Dr. Ali wants students to recognize that science and math don’t have to be a chore or a bore. With the right guidance, encouragement, and a little creativity, even challenging subjects can become exciting opportunities for discovery.
Todd M.
Todd is an experienced science educator, biological scientist, and outdoor educator with more than 15 years of experience helping students understand and appreciate the natural world. With expertise spanning biology, chemistry, environmental science, anatomy, and the earth sciences, Todd is passionate about showing students that science is much more than memorizing vocabulary and formulas—it is a way of understanding how the world around them works.
Todd earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Louisiana and pursued graduate study in Environmental Health Science at the University of Georgia. His scientific background extends well beyond the classroom and includes professional experience in ecological research, environmental science, wildlife biology, and federal environmental programs.
Before focusing primarily on education, Todd worked as a Physical Scientist with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where his work involved environmental policy, air quality, offshore exploration, and federal environmental regulations. He also served as a research associate studying carbon sequestration in southeastern U.S. swamps and wetlands and worked as a biological science technician conducting field surveys of wildlife populations, endangered plant studies, and conservation programs.
Todd brings this extensive real-world scientific experience directly into his teaching. As a science instructor, he has taught Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Science while developing curricula that incorporate hands-on experiments, interactive activities, and outdoor educational experiences. His greatest area of expertise is the biological sciences, and he especially enjoys helping students connect concepts from biology and ecology to things they can observe and investigate in everyday life.
His tutoring expertise includes Biology, AP Biology, Cell Biology, , Anatomy, Chemistry, AP Chemistry, Physics, Physical Science, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Geology, and Space Science, as well as middle school math. Todd also supports students preparing for 8th-grade Science STAAR, the ACT, and the TEAS exam, along with helping students develop stronger study habits and test-taking strategies.
One of Todd’s greatest strengths is his ability to make science tangible. Rather than relying solely on textbooks, he enjoys using experiments, demonstrations, outdoor exploration, and real-world examples to help students understand why scientific concepts work. His background as both a scientist and outdoor educator allows him to answer the question students so often ask: “When am I ever going to use this?”
Throughout his teaching career, Todd has worked with students representing a wide range of abilities, learning styles, and confidence levels. He believes students learn best when they feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, testing ideas, and discovering answers for themselves. His tutoring style is patient, encouraging, and highly interactive, with an emphasis on building genuine understanding rather than short-term memorization.
As both an educator and the father of three teenage boys, Todd also understands that no two students learn exactly the same way. Sometimes a student simply needs to hear a concept explained differently or see it demonstrated in a new context before everything begins to click. His goal is to identify that connection for each learner and use it to build greater confidence, curiosity, and independence.
Outside of education, Todd enjoys hiking, camping, geocaching, and exploring the natural world with his family. He is also a former drummer—a background that may explain both his appreciation for creativity and his comfort managing the occasional controlled chaos that comes with helping young people learn.
Ultimately, Todd wants students to leave tutoring with more than improved grades. He strives to help them become stronger problem-solvers, more confident learners, and perhaps even discover that science can actually be fun.
Trupti P.
Trupti’s background is unique, and it reflects in her teaching approach. She completed the math program at Kumon Learning Center by the 8th grade, after which she immediately began working as an Assistant Grader. Since then, Trupti has been teaching a diverse range of students, from elementary level to higher education. Her teaching philosophy is understanding students and creating a safe space to meet each other halfway. She finds joy in motivating students and being a stepping stone in their academic journey.
Trupti holds an M.S. in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Illinois Chicago and in Biology from the University of West Florida. She received her B.S. in Environmental Science with a minor in Spanish at Benedictine University. She has studied abroad in Spain and the Bahamas.
Currently, Trupti is a new adjunct instructor teaching Introduction to Biology at Harold Washington College. Outside the classroom, Trupti is an artist at heart. She loves dancing, yoga, music, and venturing to museums and plays. In her free time, she volunteers at the Blind Services Association, reading to the visually impaired.
In all, Trupti is a dedicated, empathetic, and passionate educator. She applauds students who show up, even when it seems impossible. Everyone is welcome in this classroom!
Ali S.
Ali is an accomplished medical student, neuroscience researcher, and educator who is passionate about helping students build confidence while mastering challenging academic subjects. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Medicine degree at UT Health San Antonio’s Long School of Medicine with plans to specialize in neurology. Her medical education has reinforced her belief that the ability to teach complex ideas clearly is one of the most valuable skills an educator—or physician—can possess.
Ali graduated with honors from Michigan State University, earning bachelor’s degrees in Neuroscience, Genomics & Molecular Genetics, and Spanish, while also completing the university’s Honors College program. Before beginning medical school, she spent two years as a full-time research fellow at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) studying neurodegenerative diseases. Her research experience also includes work at Stanford University, Michigan State University, and UT Health San Antonio, where she continues to contribute to neuroscience and stroke research. She has co-authored numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications and has presented her research at national scientific conferences.
Throughout college, her research career, and medical school, Ali has consistently served as a mentor and educator for fellow students. She enjoys breaking difficult concepts into manageable pieces and believes every student can succeed when material is presented in a way that matches their learning style. Her patient, encouraging approach creates a supportive environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, working through mistakes, and developing lasting confidence.
Ali provides tutoring across a wide range of subjects from elementary school through college, making her an excellent choice for families seeking support in multiple areas. Her specialties include:
- Mathematics: Pre-Algebra, Algebra I & II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Statistics, and AP Statistics
- Science: Biology, AP Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy, Physiology, Genetics, Cell Biology, Neuroscience, Pathophysiology, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Physical Science, and Health Sciences
- English & Humanities: Reading, English Language Arts, Writing, Technical Writing, College Essay Coaching, AP English, U.S. History, World History, Geography, Psychology, Sociology, and Social Studies
- Test Preparation: ACT, PSAT/SAT, STAAR, GED, TEAS, MCAT, and advanced study and test-taking strategies
Ali is particularly passionate about helping students develop the critical thinking, study habits, and problem-solving skills that lead to long-term academic success. Whether she’s preparing a middle school student for STAAR exams, helping a high school student succeed in AP Biology, guiding a college applicant through personal statement revisions, or mentoring a future healthcare professional preparing for the MCAT, she tailors every lesson to the individual student’s goals and learning style.
Families especially appreciate Ali’s ability to connect ideas across disciplines. She can explain biology through chemistry, strengthen scientific writing while teaching critical thinking, or connect mathematics to real-world medical applications. Her interdisciplinary background allows her to help students build a deeper understanding rather than simply memorizing information.
Ali believes great tutoring should do more than improve grades—it should help students become confident, independent learners who enjoy tackling new challenges. Her goal is to equip every student with the knowledge, study strategies, and self-confidence they need to succeed well beyond the classroom.
Outside of academics, Ali enjoys reading, traveling, golfing, paddle boarding, spending time with her family and cats, and returning home to Wyoming whenever she has the opportunity.
“We have a great experience working with prep academy, specifically Ali. She was reliable and knowledgeable of my high schoolers Math, English, and Science work. Even PSAT prep. She was flexible each week and provided clear understanding and communication to both me and my student. She is amazing!” – Parent Review
Kaleb B.
Kaleb is a passionate science educator with a strong background in biology, healthcare, and hands-on scientific research. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of California, San Diego, where he developed a deep appreciation for both scientific discovery and helping others learn. Today, he combines his enthusiasm for STEM with a student-centered teaching approach that makes even challenging concepts approachable and engaging.
While attending UC San Diego, Kaleb gained valuable laboratory experience as an undergraduate research intern, working on genetics and molecular biology projects involving DNA extraction, PCR analysis, DNA electrophoresis, cloning, and mosquito genetics. He later worked in healthcare at Scripps Health, supporting clinical research and patient care by assisting with clinical trials and handling research specimens. These experiences allow him to bring real-world scientific applications into every tutoring session, helping students see how the concepts they learn in class connect to exciting careers in medicine, research, and biotechnology.
Kaleb is currently serving as a substitute teacher in Seguin ISD while preparing to begin his teaching internship, allowing him to work with students in a variety of classroom settings and continue developing his instructional skills. Throughout high school and college, he also coached theater and improvisation groups, experiences that strengthened his communication skills and taught him how to create engaging, interactive learning environments where students feel comfortable asking questions and thinking creatively.
Kaleb specializes in biology, life sciences, and mathematics, with a focus on helping students build genuine understanding rather than simply memorizing procedures. He believes every student learns differently, and he enjoys discovering what motivates each learner so lessons can be connected to their personal interests, whether that’s sports, music, technology, the arts, or everyday life. His goal is to make rigorous STEM subjects meaningful, relatable, and enjoyable.
Outside of tutoring, Kaleb enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, and spending time outdoors. His travels throughout the United States and South America have broadened his perspective and reinforced his belief that learning extends far beyond the classroom. He brings that same curiosity, enthusiasm, and sense of adventure into every session, encouraging students to become confident, lifelong learners.
Ahmed A-B
EN: Ahmed is a PhD student in Neuroscience at McGill University, where he also completed his master’s degree after earning a bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science from the University of Ottawa. Throughout his academic career, he has published research, mentored undergraduate students, and tutored at both the secondary and post-secondary levels, specializing in biology, physiology, biochemistry, psychology, and research methods.
Ahmed is passionate about making complex concepts clear, engaging, and approachable. His student-centered approach focuses on building critical thinking, confidence, and a deep understanding of the material. He believes that every student can succeed when given the right tools, guidance, and learning strategies.
Outside of academics, Ahmed enjoys playing soccer, training in kickboxing, reading, and spending time with his cats.
FR: Ahmed est doctorant en neurosciences à l’Université McGill, où il a également complété sa maîtrise après avoir obtenu un baccalauréat en sciences biomédicales à l’Université d’Ottawa. Au cours de son parcours universitaire, il a publié des travaux de recherche, encadré des étudiants de premier cycle et offert du tutorat aux niveaux secondaire et postsecondaire. Il se spécialise en biologie, physiologie, biochimie, psychologie et méthodologie de la recherche.
Ahmed est passionné par l’idée de rendre les concepts complexes clairs, accessibles et stimulants. Son approche centrée sur l’élève vise à développer la pensée critique, la confiance en soi et une compréhension approfondie de la matière. Il croit que chaque élève peut réussir lorsqu’il dispose des bons outils, du bon accompagnement et de stratégies d’apprentissage adaptées.
En dehors du milieu universitaire, Ahmed aime jouer au soccer, pratiquer le kickboxing, lire et passer du temps avec ses chats.
Ariel L.
Ariel is a highly accomplished STEM educator with an advanced academic background and a passion for helping students succeed in challenging subjects. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science and is currently completing her Ph.D. in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Texas at San Antonio, where her research focuses on cutting-edge topics in cancer immunology and cellular biology.
Ariel specializes in middle school, high school, and early college-level math and science, bringing both academic depth and real-world scientific experience to every session. Her areas of expertise include:
- Mathematics: Pre-Algebra, Algebra I & II, Middle School Math, Trigonometry, Statistics, and foundational math skills
- Science: Biology (including AP Biology), Chemistry (including AP and Organic Chemistry), Anatomy, Cell Biology, Genetics, Pathophysiology, Physical Science, and Nutrition
- College-Level Coursework: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 213, BICH 1, CHEM 119, CHEM 120, and OCHEM 1
- Academic Support & Skills: Study strategies, Regents and exam prep, data interpretation, and tools such as Excel, Google Docs/Slides, and Microsoft Office
Her background also includes clinical and laboratory experience as a certified Medical Laboratory Scientist and Medical Assistant, giving her a unique ability to connect academic concepts to real-world applications in medicine and research.
In addition to her research, Ariel has experience teaching, tutoring, and mentoring students through one-on-one instruction, classroom support, and STEM outreach programs. She is especially skilled at helping students who feel overwhelmed by math and science by breaking complex material into clear, manageable steps.
Ariel believes that every student can succeed with the right structure, encouragement, and approach. She creates a supportive, judgment-free learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, building problem-solving skills, and gaining confidence. Her focus is not only on improving grades and test performance, but also on developing lasting academic habits and independent learning skills.
Families value Ariel’s rare combination of PhD-level expertise, real research experience, and a patient, approachable teaching style that makes even the most difficult STEM concepts accessible and engaging.
“I was referred to prep tutors by another mom who had significant success with improving SAT scores And she wasn’t wrong. My son jumped 200 points and we’re very happy with the professional professionalism, punctuality and knowledge of the tutors
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!”
– Parent
Monika S.
Monika is an experienced educator and former high school Spanish teacher with more than 15 years of experience helping students build confidence and achieve academic success. She has also served as a College Readiness Coach, guiding students as they develop the skills and strategies needed to succeed both in the classroom and beyond.
Spanish was Monika’s first language, a result of growing up in a military family and experiencing a wide range of cultures from an early age. This background gives her not only strong language fluency but also meaningful cultural insight that she brings to every lesson, helping students connect more deeply with the language and its real-world context.
Monika is passionate about helping students experience those powerful “aha” moments when a concept finally clicks. She tailors each tutoring session to the individual student’s strengths and learning style, creating a supportive, engaging environment where students feel encouraged to ask questions, take risks, and grow in confidence.
Outside of education, Monika enjoys traveling, gardening, exploring new cultures and cuisines, and spending time outdoors with her husband, friends, and her dog.
“We love working with Monika! She is incredibly patient, knowledgeable and has a remarkable ability to keep my child engaged throughout each session. She explains concepts in a way that is easy to understand and creates a positive, encouraging learning environment that builds both confidence and skills.”
Benjamin N.
Benjamin N. is a highly experienced educator, healthcare professional, and retired United States Army veteran with more than 30 years of experience teaching health sciences and medical technology. His career has combined military service, higher education leadership, clinical laboratory science, and student mentorship, giving him a unique ability to connect academic concepts to real-world applications in healthcare and science.
Benjamin began his teaching career while serving in the United States Army, where he was selected as an instructor for an Advanced Medical Laboratory Program. He served in that role for six years before continuing his career in both healthcare and higher education leadership following his military retirement. Throughout his career, he has remained deeply passionate about teaching, mentoring, and helping students build confidence in challenging subjects.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology, a Master of Arts in Health Services Management, and a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration. In addition to his teaching background, Benjamin has served in numerous leadership roles within higher education and healthcare, including Department Chair for Allied Health programs at San Jacinto College, where he oversaw multiple healthcare training programs and helped significantly improve student success, enrollment, and certification pass rates.
Benjamin specializes in science and health-related subjects including Anatomy, Biology, Genetics, Pathophysiology, Environmental Science, Earth Science, Physical Science, Geography, and Health. He also supports students in middle school mathematics, STAAR math preparation, elementary education, and academic writing. His broad educational and professional background allows him to adapt his instruction to students with a variety of learning styles and academic goals.
Known for his structured, supportive teaching style, Benjamin focuses on helping students truly understand concepts rather than simply memorize information. Families appreciate his patience, professionalism, and ability to encourage students to believe in their abilities while developing stronger study habits and academic confidence.
Benjamin is excited to continue sharing his knowledge and experience with students and helping them achieve long-term academic success.
Estrella H.
Estrella is an engineering student through the Alamo Colleges District and plans to continue her studies at UTSA. Her psychology degree from Wayland Baptist University has given her a strong foundation in understanding how students learn, think, and process information.
Because she has worked closely with many neurodivergent learners, Estrella is especially skilled at adapting explanations to fit different learning styles. She loves problem-solving and brings that same curiosity into her tutoring by finding clear, engaging, and flexible ways to explain concepts. Through creative problem-solving and adaptive teaching, she uses her understanding that every brain works differently to make sessions inclusive, encouraging, and confidence-building.
A kid at heart, Estrella is an avid Pokémon fan, a collector of sensory toys, and a board game enthusiast. When she isn’t studying or tutoring, she enjoys binging psychological thrillers and listening to music. Her goal is to make learning feel less like a chore and more like a puzzle to be solved.
“We could not thank Prep Academy Tutors enough! From the initial contact to the last tutoring session, Taira made us feel comfortable and confident for choosing them as a tutor for my daughter. Taira matched us up with Estrella and the match was absolutely perfect! Estrella was efficient, on time and kind to my daughter. The connection was there and we appreciate her! She worked well with my daughter, adjusted to her personality and learning style, gave feedback and encouraged her the entire time. We miss her and were sad to have completed tutoring sessions haha! I’m sure we will be reaching out again to Prep Academy Tutors in the future. We highly recommend them! Signed, a happy mom.”
– Parent Review