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.

 

Myrgia P.

Myrgia is a bilingual educator, university professor, and doctoral student in Counseling Psychology who is passionate about helping students grow academically while building confidence in their abilities. Originally from Puerto Rico, she recently relocated to Texas and brings a unique combination of higher education teaching, psychology, counseling, and academic mentoring experience to every tutoring session.

Myrgia earned her Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and has completed all degree requirements for her Master of Psychology while currently pursuing her Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Counseling Psychology. Her advanced graduate training has given her extensive expertise in learning, motivation, communication, and evidence-based approaches that help students overcome academic challenges and develop lifelong learning skills.

Before moving to Texas, Myrgia served as a full-time professor of English at Universidad Ana G. Méndez in Puerto Rico, where she taught undergraduate students English language and literature while designing engaging lessons that connected classic literature with modern media and popular culture. She also served as an assistant professor of Spanish and previously worked as a university writing tutor and student mentor, helping students strengthen academic writing, English and Spanish grammar, research skills, APA formatting, oral communication, and critical thinking.

In addition to her teaching experience, Myrgia completed both practicum and advanced practicum placements as a counseling psychology trainee at San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, where she provided counseling and academic support to medical students navigating the rigorous demands of professional school. Working alongside multidisciplinary teams, she helped students manage academic stress, test anxiety, ADHD, anxiety disorders, and other personal challenges while developing effective study habits and strategies for success.

Myrgia specializes in English Language Arts, reading, writing, college essay coaching, psychology, conversational Spanish, and high school Spanish. As a fluent bilingual educator in both English and Spanish, she is especially skilled at helping students communicate clearly, strengthen their writing, improve reading comprehension, and gain confidence in both languages.

Families appreciate Myrgia’s warm, empathetic, and highly individualized teaching style. She believes that every student learns differently and approaches each tutoring session with patience, encouragement, and genuine curiosity about how each learner thinks. Her philosophy is simple: learning is a gift, and every student deserves to experience the confidence and joy that comes from discovering their own potential.

Outside of tutoring, Myrgia enjoys volunteering with animal shelters and veterans’ organizations, reading novels, exploring the beautiful rivers and parks around New Braunfels, and—having grown up in Puerto Rico—still gets excited every time she spots a deer in Texas.

Maximillian H.

Maximillian (“Maxx”) is an accomplished mathematician, physicist, and educator with more than a decade of tutoring experience helping students develop confidence and mastery in mathematics and physics. A Texas native, Maxx earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Mathematics and Physics, graduating Cum Laude from Washington State University, where he quickly discovered his passion for teaching while working in the university’s Mathematics Department.

During his time at Washington State, Maxx served as a teaching assistant, mathematics tutor, and Calculus II laboratory instructor, supporting students in subjects ranging from foundational algebra through advanced calculus, differential equations, and business mathematics. His experience teaching college-level mathematics gives him exceptional insight into helping students build strong conceptual understanding while preparing for higher-level coursework.

After returning to Texas, Maxx began his career as a research scientist supporting the United States Air Force, where he has spent several years developing simulations, conducting physics and vision science research, designing laboratory experiments, and writing software in Python and other programming languages. His work has earned multiple professional recognitions, including nominations for SAIC’s prestigious Rising Star Award, and he has co-authored peer-reviewed scientific publications in applied physics and human performance research.

Maxx specializes in mathematics and physics instruction from middle school through college, including Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus I-III, Statistics, AP Calculus, AP Statistics, AP Physics, Computer Science, Business Math, and college mathematics courses. His professional experience allows him to connect classroom concepts to real-world scientific and engineering applications, helping students understand not only how to solve problems, but why the underlying concepts work.

Students and families appreciate Maxx’s patient, thoughtful teaching style and his ability to simplify even the most challenging topics into clear, logical steps. He believes lasting success comes from building deep conceptual understanding rather than memorizing procedures, and he enjoys seeing the moment when a difficult concept finally “clicks” for a student.

Outside of tutoring, Maxx enjoys visiting local farmers’ markets, reading, exploring new mathematical and scientific ideas, and relaxing with a good book and a cup of tea.

Desiree H.

Desiree is a dedicated education professional with extensive experience supporting students across elementary, middle, and high school grade levels. With a strong background in special education and individualized instruction, she is passionate about helping students build confidence, strengthen academic skills, and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Desiree holds an Associate Degree in Education and recently completed her Bachelor’s Degree in EC–6 Education. She also holds her Paraprofessional Certification and is currently pursuing full teacher certification through the Texas Teachers of Tomorrow (TOPP) program. Her commitment to professional growth reflects her dedication to providing the highest level of support to students and families.

Throughout her career, Desiree has worked with students from early childhood through high school in a variety of educational settings. Her experience includes serving with City Year, where she provided academic intervention and student support in high-need schools, as well as several years working in both Heritage Academy and Founders Classical Academy. These roles have allowed her to develop expertise in classroom support, behavior management, individualized instruction, and helping students with diverse learning needs succeed academically and socially.

Desiree specializes in elementary education (K–5 all subjects), Algebra, Algebra II, and STAAR preparation for both math and reading. She is particularly skilled at helping students who benefit from additional structure, encouragement, and personalized attention. Her experience supporting students with special needs, autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, and other learning challenges allows her to adapt instruction to meet each student’s unique strengths and goals.

Families appreciate Desiree’s patient, compassionate, and student-centered approach. She believes that every child can succeed when given the right support, consistency, and encouragement. By building strong relationships with students and creating a positive learning environment, she helps learners develop confidence, independence, and meaningful academic growth.

Outside of education, Desiree enjoys traveling, attending community events, spending time outdoors, and making lasting memories with family and friends. Her warm personality and positive energy carry over into her work with students, helping them feel comfortable, supported, and motivated to succeed.

Fanwei (Mary) Z.

Mary is an experienced Mandarin educator and former university professor with more than 20 years of teaching and academic leadership experience. Before relocating to the United States, she served as a Professor and Director of the Engineering Management Department at Shandong Technology and Business University in China, where she taught courses in both Mandarin and English while leading major academic research initiatives.

For the past five years, Mary has taught Mandarin in the United States, working with students ranging from kindergarten through college, as well as adult learners. She specializes in helping students of all experience levels—from beginners to advanced speakers—develop confidence in speaking, reading, writing, and understanding Mandarin Chinese.

Mary’s teaching style is interactive, engaging, and highly personalized to each student’s goals and learning style. She incorporates authentic materials and multimedia resources—including videos, audio clips, PowerPoint presentations, and widely respected curriculum programs such as Easy Steps to Chinese, HSK, and YCT—to create dynamic, effective lessons that keep students motivated and engaged.

She focuses on three core principles to support student success:

  • Connecting language learning to real-life situations
  • Beginning with interesting, relatable topics
  • Using multimedia tools to strengthen understanding and retention

In addition to conversational and academic Mandarin instruction, Mary also supports students preparing for AP Chinese, HSK, and YCT examinations.

As a bilingual educator fluent in both Mandarin and English, Mary creates a supportive and encouraging learning environment where students feel comfortable building language skills while also gaining appreciation for Chinese culture. Her accomplishments as a lead textbook author and recipient of national-level research awards reflect her deep commitment to educational excellence and lifelong learning.

Families and students appreciate Mary’s warmth, structure, patience, and enthusiasm, as well as her ability to make Mandarin both approachable and enjoyable for learners of all ages.

Skill set:  Online Mandarin

Jazzmin O.

Jazzmin is a dedicated educator and behavioral health professional with a strong background in psychology and a passion for supporting students both academically and emotionally. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Texas at San Antonio and her Master of Science in Applied Psychology from Angelo State University, with plans to pursue law school in the future.

Jazzmin brings a unique, well-rounded perspective to tutoring, combining her academic training with hands-on experience in education and behavioral support. She previously worked as an After-School Care Teacher, where she supported students ages 5–12 with homework, enrichment activities, and skill-building in a structured and engaging environment. In addition, her professional experience in mental health and case management has strengthened her ability to connect with students, support diverse learning needs, and foster resilience and confidence.

She specializes in elementary and middle school instruction (K–8), including math, reading, and writing, as well as English Language Arts, psychology, and test preparation such as STAAR and GED. Jazzmin is particularly skilled at working with students who need additional support with focus, organization, and confidence, including those with ADHD or other learning challenges.

As both a graduate-level professional and a parent, Jazzmin understands the importance of patience, encouragement, and creating a positive, supportive learning environment tailored to each child’s unique personality and needs. She focuses on building strong relationships with her students while helping them develop effective study habits, strengthen foundational skills, and gain confidence in their abilities.

Families appreciate Jazzmin’s warm, approachable style and her ability to make learning both engaging and enjoyable. Outside of tutoring, Jazzmin enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, listening to music, and exploring the outdoors.

Delva P.

Delva is a highly experienced educator and certified school counselor with over 34 years of experience supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. Her extensive background includes roles as an elementary teacher, middle school mathematics teacher, and school counselor, giving her a well-rounded understanding of how students learn and grow at every stage.

Delva holds a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling and a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Learning and Development. She is a certified Texas teacher (Grades 1–8), a certified school counselor, and a certified life coach. In addition to her work in schools, she currently serves as the Director of Education and Family Engagement at Positive Connection Counseling Center, where she develops programs focused on student success, personal growth, and family support.

She specializes in elementary education (K–5 all subjects), middle school mathematics, STAAR math preparation, logic, and supporting students with ADHD.

Delva is especially skilled at helping students build confidence in math while also developing strong organizational skills, focus, and problem-solving strategies.

Known for her warm, supportive approach, Delva prioritizes building strong relationships with both students and families. She creates a positive and encouraging learning environment where students feel comfortable, motivated, and empowered to reach their full potential. Her approach combines academic instruction with social-emotional support, helping students grow not only in their studies but also in their confidence and self-worth.

Families value Delva’s decades of experience, her compassionate teaching style, and her ability to connect with students on a deeper level to foster lasting success.

TheCarey L.

TheCarey is an experienced English educator and instructional leader with a proven track record of helping students strengthen their reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. He currently teaches 9th Grade English at IDEA Public Schools in San Antonio, where he helps students build strong reading comprehension, literary analysis, and writing skills while preparing them for STAAR End-of-Course exams. Since stepping into his current classroom mid-year, his students have already shown strong academic growth, including impressive gains on interim STAAR assessments.

Prior to returning to the classroom, TheCarey served in multiple school leadership roles, including Assistant Principal and Regional ELA Content Coach, where he supported teachers across multiple campuses, improved instructional systems, and helped raise student achievement. Earlier in his career, he taught in Harlem and the Bronx, where he built a reputation for making English Language Arts engaging, culturally relevant, and meaningful for students. His students have earned national recognition, including winning Best High School Podcast and Best East Coast Podcast through the StudySync curriculum.

TheCarey holds a Master’s degree in Special Education and has extensive experience supporting students with diverse learning needs, including those with ADHD, dyslexia, and students on the autism spectrum. He specializes in English Language Arts, writing, college essay support, ACT preparation, STAAR and Regents test prep, social studies, technical writing, and helping students develop stronger test-taking and study skills.

He also brings a unique creative perspective to tutoring through his dual bachelor’s degrees in Film & Video and Africana Studies, often helping students connect literature, writing, and history to real-world issues, media, and storytelling in ways that make learning more engaging.

Families appreciate TheCarey’s ability to challenge students academically while building their confidence and making learning feel relevant and enjoyable. His goal is to help students become stronger readers, writers, and thinkers both inside and outside the classroom.

Outside of education, TheCarey enjoys spending time with his wife and infant daughter, exploring San Antonio’s parks and restaurants, watching films, and cheering on his hometown Chicago sports teams.

Diana W.

Diana is a bilingual educator with over 10 years of experience teaching, tutoring, and mentoring students across a wide range of ages and learning needs. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she brings a unique combination of cultural insight, strong communication skills, and a warm, engaging teaching style to every session.

Diana earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from the College of Charleston and a Master of Science in Management from Southern Wesleyan University. She has extensive experience teaching in both traditional classroom settings and one-on-one environments, including working with elementary students (K–5), English Language Arts, ESL learners, and Spanish language students at both the middle and high school levels. She has also supported students with dyslexia and served as a bilingual liaison, helping bridge communication between schools and families.

Her areas of expertise include reading, writing, college essay support, English Language Arts, ESL, Spanish (conversational through advanced), test-taking strategies, and GED preparation. Diana is especially skilled at building strong relationships with her students and tailoring instruction to meet each child’s individual learning style, helping them gain both academic skills and confidence.

In addition to her educational background, Diana brings over 20 years of professional experience in customer service, training, and curriculum development across multiple industries. She has developed Spanish curriculum and training materials, led workshops, and provided individualized instruction to both students and adults.

Diana is also a published co-author of two women’s empowerment books, reflecting her passion for personal growth and helping others reach their full potential. She believes that every student can succeed with the right encouragement, structure, and support, and she strives to create a positive, engaging learning environment where students feel confident and motivated.

Outside of tutoring, Diana enjoys spending time with her family, including her children and grandson, and continues to pursue her passion for teaching and connecting with others.

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.