Bryana T.

Bryana is a dedicated STEM educator, graduate researcher, and teaching assistant with a passion for helping students discover the excitement of science. She is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Texas at San Antonio through the South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, where her research focuses on developing innovative bacteriophage therapies to combat antibiotic-resistant infections.

Bryana earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration in Cellular and Molecular Biology and a minor in Biochemistry from Baylor University. Her strong academic foundation, combined with extensive laboratory research experience, allows her to connect classroom concepts to real-world scientific discovery in ways that inspire curiosity and deepen understanding.

As a Teaching Assistant at UTSA, Bryana teaches introductory biology laboratory courses, leading her own classroom of college students while developing engaging lessons, evaluating student work, and helping students master foundational biological concepts. She has also worked as a STEM camp counselor, introducing younger students to geology and the natural sciences through hands-on activities that make learning both fun and memorable.

Bryana specializes in biology, chemistry, genetics, cell biology, and health sciences, while also tutoring elementary and middle school mathematics, English Language Arts, reading, writing, and social studies. She supports students preparing for AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP English, AP World History, STAAR exams, GED testing, and college-level biology and chemistry courses. Her broad academic background enables her to work effectively with students ranging from elementary school through college.

Students and families appreciate Bryana’s patient, encouraging teaching style and her ability to explain difficult STEM concepts in a clear, approachable way. She believes the best learning happens when students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and discovering how concepts apply to the world around them. Her goal is not only to improve grades and test scores, but also to help students become confident, independent learners.

Outside of academics, Bryana enjoys hiking, traveling, reading, creative writing, and exploring great films. Whether she’s researching new medical treatments or discovering a new story through literature or cinema, she is driven by a lifelong curiosity and a genuine love of learning that she enjoys sharing with her students.

 

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.

Todd P.

Todd P. is a highly experienced science and test preparation specialist with nearly two decades of experience in education. Since beginning his career in 2006, he has taught Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and AP Physics, helping students develop deep conceptual understanding and lasting confidence in challenging subjects.

In addition to his classroom teaching, Todd has served as a content coordinator for both Judson ISD and Houston ISD, giving him strong insight into curriculum standards, assessment design, and academic expectations across grade levels.

Todd provides expert tutoring in:

  • Science: Biology (including AP Biology), Chemistry, Physics, Physical Science, Earth Science, Environmental Science (including middle school 6–8), and Genetics
  • Mathematics: Algebra, Algebra II, Trigonometry, and math foundations that support science success
  • College-Level Coursework: BIOL 111, BIOL 112, BIOL 213, CHEM 119
  • Standardized Test Prep: ACT, PSAT/SAT, ASVAB, SSAT/ISEE, STAAR, TSI, GRE, and AP exams

He also helps students strengthen core academic and technical skills, including graphing, data interpretation, Excel, Microsoft Office, Google Docs, Google Slides, and PowerPoint — tools that are essential for modern academic success.

Families value Todd’s ability to simplify complex material, build effective test-taking strategies, and tailor instruction to each student’s learning style. His goal is not only to improve grades and test scores, but to equip students with the confidence and independent thinking skills needed for long-term success.

Outside of education, Todd enjoys art, writing, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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.