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Our Tutors
Amritha Baskaran
Amritha is an experienced and enthusiastic tutor who has spent nearly four years helping students across math, science, English, music, and more. Teaching genuinely brings her joy, and she especially values the opportunity to work with younger students during such important formative years. For Amritha, tutoring is about more than completing an assignment—it’s about helping students develop the knowledge, confidence, and curiosity that will support them throughout their education. Amritha especially loves tutoring biology and math. A natural logical thinker with a longtime interest in STEM, she enjoys problem-solving and understanding the science behind the world around us. She thrived across subjects in school, but biology and mathematics consistently stood out as her favorites. Her own academic experience also taught her the importance of learning how you learn. She believes finding the right study methods and understanding how an individual student processes information can completely change their academic experience. What sets Amritha apart is her combination of experience, patience, and relaxed teaching style. She wants students to feel comfortable during sessions rather than pressured or intimidated, and she prioritizes truly understanding a concept over simply rushing to finish homework. When a student becomes frustrated, Amritha takes a step back to identify the source of confusion, returns to simpler examples, and rebuilds the concept from there. She is also comfortable incorporating different resources and explanations when a student needs to see material presented in a new way. As both a logical and musical learner, Amritha brings a unique combination of analytical thinking and creativity to her sessions. She has played musical instruments—primarily the flute—for more than a decade and also used to play hockey. Her diverse interests, approachable personality, and genuine enthusiasm for teaching allow her to connect with students while helping them become stronger, more independent learners.
Anna Tomlinson
Anna is a passionate and engaging tutor whose appreciation for education runs deep. Growing up in a family of educators—including her parents, grandfather, and great-grandparents—Anna learned early on the value of a strong education and the importance of asking for help when challenges arise. After spending the past three summers as a camp counselor, she has had extensive experience working with children and helping them through academic work. Few things are more rewarding to Anna than seeing a student have that “AHA!” moment and recognize that they are capable of more than they initially believed.
Anna especially loves tutoring English and Social Studies, two subjects she believes naturally complement one another. An avid reader from an early age, she enjoys helping students discover how literature can teach them about themselves and the world around them—even when reading may not initially be their favorite subject. History has always been one of Anna’s greatest academic passions, as she loves exploring different cultures, perspectives, and events and understanding how they have shaped the world today. Academically, Anna challenged herself throughout school, participating in gifted programs and completing 12 Advanced Placement courses in high school. Managing a demanding workload taught her valuable lessons in organization, time management, and avoiding procrastination and burnout. She now brings those strategies into tutoring, helping students develop skills that support them beyond a single homework assignment or test. What sets Anna apart is her ability to combine academics with creativity and genuine connection. As an actress and musician, she understands that students are more engaged when they can find personal meaning in what they are learning. She brings patience, kindness, and enthusiasm to her sessions and works to connect challenging material to each student's individual interests. When frustration arises, Anna gives students space to reset, listens to what is bothering them, and adjusts the session accordingly—whether that means taking a short break, talking through the challenge, or approaching the material from a new direction. A sophomore at the University of Central Florida, Anna is also an accomplished singer-songwriter who recently released her debut album featuring nine original songs performed with her guitar. As a verbal and logical learner, she loves color-coded notes, outlines, organization, and finding connections between ideas. Anna brings that same combination of structure and creativity to her tutoring, helping students feel understood, supported, and increasingly confident in their ability to learn.
Emily Adams
Emily is an enthusiastic and adaptable tutor who loves showing students that even the most intimidating material can become manageable with the right explanation. Her passion for teaching grew even stronger while working with Breakthrough Miami, where she taught 7th-grade science to a class of approximately 20 students. While teaching the complex flow of blood through the heart, one student looked at the board and told her that despite how much information there was, she somehow understood all of it. That moment perfectly captured what Emily loves most about tutoring: taking something that initially feels impossible and helping a student reach the point where it finally “clicks.” Emily especially enjoys tutoring science, including elementary science, Biology, and Chemistry, as well as elementary and middle school Math, Algebra I, and ELA/Reading across grade levels. Academically, she has excelled in both the sciences and English, completing coursework in Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Anatomy, and Biomedical Science and earning a 5 on the AP English Language exam. Her own academic experience has also helped her develop a variety of study techniques that she enjoys sharing with students to make learning and test preparation more effective. What sets Emily apart is her ability to quickly recognize that no two students learn exactly the same way. Through working with children ranging from ages 3 to 14, she has learned how to adjust her explanations, activities, and teaching strategies based on the individual student in front of her. She believes that if one explanation isn't working, the answer isn't to keep repeating it—it’s to find a different way to approach the concept. Emily also understands how easily frustration can interfere with learning and confidence. When a student becomes overwhelmed, she is comfortable pausing for a quick energizer or casual conversation before returning to the material with a clearer mindset. She is never afraid to go back to the basics, knowing that a strong foundation is essential before more advanced concepts can truly make sense. She also encourages students to ask questions early and often rather than waiting until they are struggling, helping them become more confident advocates for their own education. As a visual learner herself, Emily loves incorporating diagrams, drawings, organization, and multiple ways of visualizing a concept into her teaching. Outside of academics, she is also a longtime swimmer who competed from seventh through tenth grade and has recently returned to the pool with hopes of competing again. Emily brings that same persistence, discipline, and willingness to keep improving into her tutoring, helping students discover both how they learn best and how capable they truly are.
Kylie Cimillo
Kylie Cimillo is a passionate Health Sciences major at the University of Central Florida with a natural gift for connecting with students and inspiring a love for learning. Her background in science and writing, combined with her hands-on approach to teaching, makes her an engaging and effective tutor. Kylie enjoys tutoring because it allows her to share her knowledge while watching students grow both intellectually and personally. For her, tutoring is more than just teaching; it’s about creating meaningful bonds with students and helping them find joy in subjects they once found challenging. With her background in health sciences and a love for writing, Kylie thrives in science-based subjects, as well as reading and writing. In her free time, you’ll find her diving into books or journaling, which fuels her passion for language and expression. While her strengths lie in these areas, Kylie’s versatility allows her to adapt quickly to support students in any subject. Throughout her academic journey, Kylie has excelled in sciences and writing, having been part of a medical program in high school and taking advanced writing courses at a local college. When facing academic challenges, Kylie uses her skills as a planner to create structured, focused study sessions. She maintains a positive attitude and rewards herself for her efforts, believing that self-compassion and persistence are key to success. Kylie’s hands-on, kinaesthetic learning style is a hallmark of her tutoring approach. She uses interactive tools like flip books, games, and projects to make learning engaging and memorable. Her ability to create a fun, dynamic learning environment sets her apart and ensures students stay motivated and excited to learn.
Anthony Pellito
Anthony is an analytical and engaging tutor who believes that true learning happens when students understand not only how to solve a problem, but why the solution works. His natural curiosity has always drawn him toward understanding the reasoning behind mathematics and science, and he enjoys helping students develop that same deeper level of comprehension. Anthony believes that mastering the fundamentals gives students the tools to tackle increasingly challenging STEM courses throughout high school, college, and beyond. Anthony especially enjoys tutoring Math, including Algebra and Calculus, as well as Physics. Math and science were consistently his strongest subjects in school, and his approach to learning involved recognizing patterns, understanding underlying principles, and applying those ideas to new problems. He brings this same approach into tutoring so students aren't simply memorizing formulas or steps—they're learning how to think through problems independently. What sets Anthony apart is his willingness to slow down and backtrack whenever necessary. If a student can arrive at the correct answer but doesn't understand how they got there, Anthony sees that as an opportunity to revisit the foundation and fill in the gaps. He also enjoys creating analogies and real-world comparisons that can make abstract concepts feel much more approachable. As a mathematical, visual, physical, and social learner himself, Anthony understands the value of presenting information in multiple ways until something clicks. Anthony also recognizes that frustration can make learning significantly harder. Rather than continuing to push when a student feels overwhelmed, he looks for ways to create a more comfortable environment and help them reset. Because music helps him personally concentrate, he is open to incorporating music or other appropriate focus strategies when they help a student relax and re-engage with the material. A unique fact about Anthony is that he has Tourette Syndrome, an experience that has given him his own perspective on navigating learning environments and individual differences. His patient, logical, and adaptable approach allows him to meet students where they are while still challenging them to grow. Whether he is explaining an Algebra equation, working through Calculus, or unpacking a Physics concept, Anthony’s goal is for students to leave a session understanding more, thinking more independently, and feeling more confident in their abilities.
Gabby Coelo
Gabby is a patient and driven tutor who understands firsthand how much the right academic support can impact a student’s confidence. Throughout high school and into college, Gabby worked with a tutor who helped her feel prepared for everything from everyday assignments to final exams. That experience inspired her to give back by providing students with the same encouragement, preparation, and belief in their abilities that made such a difference in her own education. Gabby especially enjoys tutoring Math and health science-related subjects, where she appreciates the logical process of working toward a clear answer. She has also thrived in literature and enjoys analyzing the deeper meaning behind writing. Whether solving a challenging equation, learning how systems within the human body work, or examining a piece of literature, Gabby’s natural curiosity motivates her to dig deeper—and she loves helping students discover that same excitement for learning. Her own academic journey taught Gabby that asking for help is a strength. She attended tutoring multiple times per week while also dedicating time to independent study, developing the determination and discipline that have supported her success. She also learned how important a student’s environment can be for concentration and productivity and encourages students to think beyond simply what they study to consider how and where they learn best. What sets Gabby apart is her patience and ability to step back when something isn't working. When a student becomes frustrated, she believes that continuing to push can sometimes be counterproductive. Instead, she encourages a brief reset before returning to the material with fresh eyes, reassurance, and a new approach. As a visual and spatial learner herself, Gabby frequently uses diagrams, charts, examples, and step-by-step demonstrations to make challenging concepts easier to understand. Gabby is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a minor in Health Sciences at the University of Central Florida and is set to graduate in May 2027. Her healthcare-focused education, academic determination, and personal experience with tutoring give her a unique ability to connect with students from both sides of the learning process. Above all, Gabby wants students to leave their sessions feeling prepared, supported, and increasingly confident in what they can accomplish.
Isabella Gulbin
Isabella is an enthusiastic and compassionate tutor who is passionate about helping students discover that they are capable of understanding more than they may initially believe. She loves watching students open their minds to new ideas and become more confident, independent learners. For Isabella, tutoring is a two-way experience—an opportunity to share her own knowledge while continuing to learn from the students she works with. Isabella especially loves tutoring Social Studies, including History, Civics, Government, and Sociology, as well as English and Literature. History has always been one of her strongest subjects and ultimately inspired her goal of becoming a history teacher. She also thrived in English, art, and math, giving her a well-rounded academic background and an appreciation for both creative and analytical learning. What sets Isabella apart is her genuine love of education and her experience working directly with children. As a former preschool teacher, she learned how to connect with young learners, encourage curiosity, and make new information feel approachable. She believes education is most powerful when knowledge is shared, and she wants students to see learning as something that extends far beyond grades and assignments. Isabella also understands that frustration is a normal part of learning. When a student becomes overwhelmed, she believes in giving them space to reset—whether through a quick conversation, coloring, or a brief brain break—before approaching the material again from a different angle. She uses this strategy in her own learning as well, recognizing that sometimes a fresh perspective is exactly what is needed to make a difficult concept click. As both a visual and social learner, Isabella enjoys making sessions interactive and incorporating different ways of seeing, discussing, and understanding information. Originally from Pennsylvania, she traded the cold winters for life in Florida. Her curiosity, patience, and enthusiasm for education allow her to create a tutoring environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, working through challenges, and becoming more confident in their ability to learn.
Maahir Rahi
Maahir is a dedicated and highly skilled STEM tutor who brings clarity, patience, and real-world engineering experience to every session. As a Materials Science & Engineering student at the University of Central Florida, he regularly works through challenging technical concepts and complex problems. That experience has strengthened his ability to take material that initially feels overwhelming and break it into clear, manageable steps. He especially enjoys helping students move from “this makes no sense” to the moment when everything finally clicks. Maahir specializes in advanced mathematics, including Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus 1–3, and Differential Equations, as well as Physics and Chemistry. These are subjects in which he has consistently thrived, but his goal is never to simply teach students which formula to use. Instead, Maahir helps them recognize patterns, understand the reasoning behind each step, and develop a logical process they can apply to unfamiliar problems. He believes that when students understand the why behind a concept, they become much less dependent on memorization and far more confident in their ability to problem-solve independently. One of Maahir’s greatest strengths as a tutor comes from his own academic journey. He doesn’t describe himself as someone who was always the “naturally smart” student, and he understands that strong academic performance often has more to do with effective strategies, consistency, and practice than natural ability. In college, he transformed his own approach to learning by developing structured routines, reviewing lectures intentionally, summarizing notes, practicing problems consistently, and creating step-by-step checklists for difficult material. He now enjoys teaching students those same strategies so they gain skills that extend beyond a single assignment or exam. When students become frustrated, Maahir avoids overwhelming them with lengthy explanations. Instead, he simplifies the material, asks guiding questions, and encourages students to talk through each step themselves. This allows him to identify exactly where the disconnect is occurring while helping students actively participate in finding the solution. Whether a student learns best through diagrams, logical patterns, worked examples, or discussion, Maahir adapts his teaching style to make the material as accessible as possible. Outside of academics, Maahir enjoys reading and going to the gym and previously played lacrosse, experiences that have helped strengthen his discipline, consistency, and time-management skills. He brings those same qualities into tutoring while maintaining an approachable and relatable teaching style. Ultimately, Maahir’s goal is to give students more than correct answers—he wants them to leave each session with greater confidence, genuine understanding, and a repeatable problem-solving process they can trust on homework, quizzes, tests, and future courses.
Sophie Houghtaling
Sophie is a thoughtful and encouraging tutor who loves witnessing the moment when a difficult concept finally “clicks.” For her, one of the most rewarding parts of tutoring is watching a student move from frustration to true mastery—not simply finding the right answer, but understanding the process well enough to confidently apply it again. Sophie wants students to leave tutoring sessions feeling more capable and equipped to tackle challenges on their own. Sophie is especially passionate about History and loves helping students see it as an interconnected story rather than a collection of names and dates to memorize. She enjoys tracing how individual decisions and events create ripple effects across generations and helping students understand the bigger picture. Interestingly, Sophie’s strongest subjects in school were also STEM-based, particularly Math and Chemistry. She enjoys their structure and the process of breaking complicated problems into clear, logical steps. Her own academic experiences strongly influence the way she tutors. Sophie received tutoring in elementary school and understands firsthand how frustrating it can feel to struggle with material. The tutors who made the greatest impact on her didn't simply help with assignments—they taught her how to learn and study effectively. Those skills eventually helped her thrive throughout high school and college, and today, Sophie works to give her students that same academic toolkit. When students become frustrated, Sophie slows things down and removes some of the pressure surrounding the problem. She breaks challenging material into smaller, manageable pieces, identifies exactly where understanding begins to break down, and celebrates progress along the way. Her goal is to shift a student's thinking from “I can't do this” to “I can figure this out one step at a time.” As a visual and spatial learner, she also loves incorporating diagrams, charts, sketches, and other visual aids to make abstract or complicated ideas easier to understand. One of Sophie’s most unique experiences is having lived in Vienna, Austria, for eight years. Growing up immersed in another country’s culture and history, along with being raised in a multicultural household, gave her a broader perspective on the world—one that complements her natural love of history and learning. Sophie brings that curiosity, patience, and perspective into every session, helping students develop not only stronger academic skills, but greater confidence and independence as learners.
Kaila Cohen
Kaila Cohen is a creative, compassionate, and engaging tutor who is passionate about helping students discover both their academic strengths and their individual voices. A Theatre Arts major at Rollins College, Kaila is preparing to pursue an MFA in Theatre for Young Audiences at the University of Central Florida. Her background in the arts and education has shaped a tutoring style that is highly personalized, interactive, and focused on making learning feel meaningful rather than intimidating. Kaila specializes in English, including reading comprehension, writing, grammar, and research. She particularly enjoys helping students become stronger communicators and discover that there is rarely only one way to express an idea effectively. Whether a student is struggling to organize an essay, understand a reading assignment, strengthen grammar skills, or conduct research, Kaila works to break the process into approachable steps while encouraging students to develop their own ideas and perspectives. As a lifelong lover of the arts, Kaila brings a unique level of creativity to her sessions. Her experience with theater, music, and visual arts allows her to incorporate storytelling, performance, imagery, and other creative techniques when traditional learning methods aren't connecting. She believes students learn best when lessons reflect their personalities and interests, and she takes time to discover what motivates each individual learner. Having developed her own study strategies throughout her academic journey, Kaila also enjoys helping students experiment with different techniques until they find methods that genuinely work for them. What especially sets Kaila apart is her patience and extensive experience supporting individuals with disabilities. She understands that every learner processes information differently and that academic success cannot be built through a one-size-fits-all approach. Rather than expecting students to adapt to one teaching method, Kaila adapts her teaching to the student, creating an environment where they feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and learning at their own pace. When students become frustrated or overwhelmed, Kaila prioritizes helping them regulate and refocus before continuing to push through material. Depending on the student, she may incorporate a brief brain break, grounding exercise, or open conversation before approaching the concept from a different direction. Her goal is to ensure students leave tutoring feeling encouraged and capable—not defeated by the material they were working through. Outside of tutoring, Kaila enjoys directing theater, visiting Disney World, and playing Disney Dreamlight Valley. Her enthusiasm for storytelling, creativity, and working with young people carries naturally into her tutoring. By combining academic support with patience, imagination, and genuine connection, Kaila strives to help students become more confident learners while developing skills they can carry with them far beyond the classroom.
Lucia Mejia
Lucia is a patient and encouraging tutor who loves helping students experience those exciting “lightbulb moments” when a challenging concept finally makes sense. She finds tutoring especially rewarding because she gets to watch students grow in both understanding and confidence, turning frustration into accomplishment one step at a time. Her goal is to create an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, working through mistakes, and recognizing that difficult material can become manageable with the right approach.= Lucia’s favorite subject to tutor is math, where her logical and problem-solving mindset shines. She also excelled in Spanish throughout school, giving her strong communication skills and an appreciation for both language and analytical learning. Rather than focusing only on getting the correct answer, Lucia emphasizes teaching the why behind each problem. She believes true understanding comes from knowing how and why concepts work, allowing students to recognize patterns, make connections, and apply what they have learned to new problems long after a tutoring session ends. As a student, Lucia overcame academic challenges by experimenting with new study strategies, becoming more intentional in the classroom, and learning how to fully apply herself to difficult material. These experiences taught her that academic success isn't always about immediately understanding something—it often comes from finding the learning method that works best for you. She now helps students develop those same skills, encouraging them to become more aware of how they learn and more confident in approaching challenging subjects independently. When frustration arises, Lucia begins by identifying exactly where the confusion starts rather than simply repeating the same explanation. She asks questions to determine whether a student is struggling with one particular step or needs to revisit the foundation of the concept. From there, she adapts her approach—whether that means breaking a problem into smaller pieces, slowing down, providing another example, or explaining the material from a completely different perspective. Her focus is always on helping students feel supported rather than rushed. A logical and mathematical learner herself, Lucia brings calm structure, patience, and clarity to every session while building strong connections with her students. Outside of tutoring, she enjoys spending time with the horses she has back home, an interest that reflects her responsibility, dedication, and love for hands-on experiences. Whether she is helping a student work through a difficult math problem, strengthen their Spanish skills, or simply become more confident in the classroom, Lucia is committed to helping every learner recognize their abilities and feel genuinely successful in their academic journey.
Jordyn Li
Jordyn is a patient and adaptable tutor who loves helping students reach the “aha!” moment when a challenging concept finally makes sense. She understands how impactful it can be to have someone explain difficult material in a way that truly connects, and she strives to provide that same support for her students. Her goal is not only to improve understanding, but also to help students become more confident in their ability to work through challenges independently. Jordyn especially enjoys tutoring Anatomy and other science-related subjects. She loves taking complex topics and making them more approachable, particularly by connecting what students are learning to real-life applications in healthcare. Anatomy has been one of her favorite subjects because it allows her to understand how different structures and systems work together rather than simply memorizing isolated information. Throughout her own academic journey, Jordyn learned that struggling with a subject does not mean a student is incapable of mastering it. She approaches difficult material by breaking it into smaller pieces, experimenting with different study methods, and asking questions when clarification is needed. This experience shaped her tutoring philosophy: there is no single “right” way to learn, and sometimes a student simply needs the material presented differently. What sets Jordyn apart is her ability to adapt to different personalities, confidence levels, and learning styles. Her years of practicing and teaching martial arts have given her extensive experience explaining skills to students of different ages and abilities. When a student becomes frustrated, Jordyn first identifies exactly where the disconnect is happening rather than simply repeating the same explanation. She may then introduce an analogy, visual, practice problem, or real-world example to help the concept click while rebuilding the student’s confidence. As a hands-on learner herself, Jordyn learns best through actively practicing, visualizing, and applying information. She brings this same interactive approach to tutoring whenever possible, incorporating practice questions, visuals, and practical examples into her sessions. The patience, discipline, and communication skills she developed through martial arts carry directly into her teaching, allowing Jordyn to create an environment where students feel comfortable making mistakes, asking questions, and discovering just how capable they are.
Matthew Barba
Matthew Barba is a dedicated and relatable tutor who is passionate about helping students stay on track and recognize the importance of their education. Having experienced his own shift in mindset toward school, Matthew understands how powerful the right support and motivation can be. In high school, he struggled with focus and saw his grades slip, but through personal growth and renewed commitment in college, he realized the value of academic discipline. Today, as a student at his dream school, the University of Central Florida, he is driven to help others find that same sense of purpose and direction. Matthew specializes in math, a subject that has always come naturally to him, and he enjoys helping students build confidence through clear, step-by-step explanations. He is also skilled in essay and creative writing, giving him a well-rounded academic foundation. In college, Matthew has developed strong time-management and planning skills, allowing him to balance academics with other interests—habits he now teaches his students to develop as well. What sets Matthew apart is his ability to meet students where they are. He works hard to ensure that no one feels left behind, drawing from his own experiences being tutored and supported along the way. He believes learning should feel collaborative and encouraging, not intimidating. When students become frustrated or overwhelmed, Matthew emphasizes the importance of taking breaks, slowing down, and returning to material with a fresh mindset. He reminds students that confidence is built one step at a time. A logical and auditory learner with a strong musical aptitude, Matthew often connects patterns and rhythm to problem-solving and learning. Outside of tutoring, he is a second-year Electrical Engineering major at UCF and a talented musician. He plays guitar, bass, keyboards, sings, and is learning the drums, bringing creativity and balance into his academic life. Whether guiding students through math concepts or helping them develop better study habits, Matthew is committed to empowering each learner to move forward with confidence and purpose.
Samantha Ostro
Samantha is a patient and encouraging tutor who finds it incredibly rewarding to watch students grow and succeed. She enjoys helping students work through challenges, build confidence in their abilities, and experience the sense of accomplishment that comes when a difficult concept finally makes sense. Her goal is to create an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and know they have someone in their corner. Samantha especially enjoys tutoring lower school reading, as well as math and science through 8th grade. Math and science were consistently some of her strongest subjects throughout school, and her interest in science has continued into college. She is currently majoring in Biology at the University of Central Florida and loves learning more about the subject while having the opportunity to share that enthusiasm with her students. Throughout her own academic journey, Samantha learned that success often comes down to organization, consistency, and being willing to ask for help. When coursework became challenging, she focused on staying on top of assignments and reaching out for support rather than allowing herself to fall behind. She now encourages her students to develop those same habits and become more confident advocating for themselves academically. What sets Samantha apart is her patience and ability to explain concepts clearly and calmly. She recognizes that students may need to hear or see information presented in several different ways before it clicks, and she is willing to adjust her approach accordingly. When a student becomes frustrated, Samantha first listens carefully to understand exactly what is causing the difficulty. From there, she breaks the problem into smaller, more manageable steps and uses positive reinforcement to help the student regain confidence. Outside of academics, Samantha was a competitive figure skater for 10 years—an experience that required tremendous discipline, persistence, and patience. She brings those same qualities into her tutoring sessions, encouraging students to recognize that improvement takes practice and that challenges are simply part of the learning process. Samantha is committed to helping each student feel supported, capable, and proud of the progress they make.
Erica Cox
Erica is a dedicated and compassionate tutor who understands firsthand how powerful individualized learning can be. Having utilized tutoring services throughout her own academic journey, Erica recognizes that every student learns differently and that finding the right strategies can make all the difference. As a pre-dental student and senior Biology major at the University of Central Florida, she is passionate about helping others grow—not just academically, but in confidence and self-belief. For Erica, there is nothing more rewarding than watching a student master a challenging concept and realize their own potential. Erica especially enjoys tutoring Biology and other science-based subjects, as she has always been fascinated by how the natural world works and loves helping students connect the “why” behind what they’re learning. As a natural problem-solver, she also enjoys Mathematics, including Algebra and Pre-Calculus, where logical thinking and step-by-step reasoning come together. Throughout school, she thrived in math because of its structured, analytical nature, while continuously strengthening her skills across other subjects through persistence and discipline. Erica’s academic journey taught her that success is not about being the “naturally gifted” student—it is about perseverance. When she faced challenges, she learned to ask for help, seek out resources, and experiment with study strategies until she found what truly worked. This mindset now shapes her tutoring approach. She creates a safe, encouraging space where students feel comfortable asking questions, revisiting material, and learning at their own pace. As a future healthcare professional, she brings patience, empathy, and strong communication skills to every session. When students feel frustrated, Erica first pauses to check in and validate their feelings. She may suggest a short reset or shift to a different problem to build small wins and restore confidence. She consistently reminds students that struggle is a normal and essential part of growth. Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Erica is fluent in Portuguese and brings a global perspective to her work. Outside of academics, she played competitive volleyball growing up and once dreamed of playing professionally. As a verbal, visual, and spatial learner, she uses tools like diagrams, color-coded notes, summaries, and discussion-based learning to make complex ideas clear and engaging. Erica is committed to helping each student feel capable, confident, and empowered to succeed.
Brianna Melot
Brianna is a compassionate and driven tutor who is passionate about helping students turn confusion into clarity. As a student herself, she understands how overwhelming coursework can feel—especially in rigorous subjects—and finds it deeply rewarding to guide students through that process while watching their confidence grow. Brianna is especially committed to helping students discover the study strategies that work best for them so they can become more independent, capable learners long after tutoring sessions end. As a pre-dental student at the University of Central Florida, Brianna particularly enjoys tutoring general science, math, and study skills. She has a strong interest in subjects like biology and genetics, where understanding concepts deeply—rather than simply memorizing them—makes all the difference. She excels at breaking down complex topics into manageable, step-by-step explanations and helping students apply what they learn in practical ways. She also enjoys teaching organization, time management, and exam preparation skills, recognizing that mastering how to study is often just as important as mastering the content itself. Brianna thrived most in structured, science-focused courses where discipline, organization, and consistency were key. When she encountered academic obstacles, she learned to adapt her study habits, break material into smaller sections, and practice consistently rather than becoming discouraged. This experience strengthened her resilience and shaped her tutoring philosophy: every student learns differently, and success often comes from finding the right approach—not from forcing one method that doesn’t fit. What sets Brianna apart is her patience, empathy, and ability to create a supportive, judgment-free environment. She understands that struggle is a normal part of growth and emphasizes both academic improvement and confidence-building. When students feel frustrated, she first validates their feelings, then slows down, identifies specific areas of confusion, and walks through the material step-by-step. She celebrates small wins along the way, helping students rebuild confidence and momentum. Outside of academics, Brianna enjoys doing her own nails—a skill she developed through practice and perseverance. What started as a challenge became something she mastered over time, reinforcing her belief that consistent effort and patience lead to growth. As a social, interpersonal, and verbal learner, she thrives in discussion-based environments and creates engaging sessions where students feel comfortable asking questions and actively participating. Brianna is committed to helping each student not only improve their grades, but also build the confidence and skills they need to succeed long-term.
Zaara Alam
Zaara is a compassionate and relatable tutor who loves helping students experience the confidence that comes when a difficult concept finally makes sense. Having needed extra academic support herself at different points in her education, Zaara remembers how rewarding it felt to move from confusion to understanding. That experience now motivates her to provide the same encouragement and guidance to other students, helping them feel capable rather than discouraged when school becomes challenging. Zaara especially enjoys tutoring Reading and Writing, two areas that have always been among her greatest strengths. She also enjoys tutoring Math because she understands firsthand how frustrating the subject can feel when a concept isn’t clicking. Throughout school, Zaara particularly thrived in writing, math, and test-taking, giving her the ability to support students not only with subject material but also with strategies for approaching assignments and exams more confidently. What sets Zaara apart is that she understands tutoring from both perspectives. She has been the student receiving help and the person providing it, which has shaped her patient and empathetic approach. During college, she sought tutoring for challenging subjects such as Chemistry and Trigonometry, participated in group study sessions, and learned to become comfortable asking professors and peers for help. These experiences taught her that needing support is a normal part of learning—and that the right explanation or study strategy can completely change a student’s experience with a subject. When a student becomes frustrated, Zaara prioritizes listening before jumping into another explanation. She wants to understand what the student is struggling with and then work with them to create a plan for moving forward. As a verbal learner herself, she finds value in talking through ideas, asking questions, and creating an open dialogue where students feel comfortable saying when something doesn't make sense. Outside of academics, Zaara recently returned from a summer internship in Spain and Italy, an experience that allowed her to learn and grow outside of the traditional classroom. She brings that same curiosity, openness, and willingness to learn into her tutoring sessions. Above all, Zaara wants students to know that struggling with a subject does not define their academic ability—with the right support, patience, and strategies, they can make meaningful progress and become more confident learners.
Kimora Sajous
Kimora is an enthusiastic and encouraging tutor who genuinely loves helping students succeed. As someone who loved school growing up, she has always enjoyed reading, learning new things, asking questions, and challenging herself academically. Kimora believes every student deserves the opportunity to experience that same excitement toward learning, and she understands that the right support can make the difference between a student resenting a subject and beginning to feel capable and confident in it. Kimora especially enjoys tutoring Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry, English, and History. She is passionate about helping students develop strong foundations in introductory math because she recognizes how important those skills become in more advanced courses such as Statistics, Calculus, and Physics. Statistics was actually one of Kimora’s favorite subjects and an area where she particularly thrived in school. She was often the first student to raise her hand and ask questions—a habit she now encourages in her own students. She also enjoys English and History and believes that strong reading, writing, and critical-thinking skills can benefit students across nearly every academic subject. One of Kimora’s greatest strengths as a tutor is her enthusiasm. While she understands the importance of keeping sessions focused and productive, she also believes learning doesn't have to feel overly serious or stressful. She enjoys building genuine rapport with her students and incorporating humor and personality into sessions when appropriate. Her first priority is creating an environment where students feel comfortable enough to ask questions, make mistakes, and admit when they don't understand something without feeling embarrassed. Kimora also understands that academic obstacles are a normal part of learning. As a student, she worked through challenges by taking short breaks when needed, seeking additional support from teachers, and reminding herself that struggling academically was never a reflection of her worth or ability. She carries that same perspective into tutoring. When a student becomes frustrated, Kimora reassures them that they aren't expected to understand everything immediately. She gives them an opportunity to reset before approaching the material from a different angle, breaking difficult concepts into more manageable pieces until they begin to make sense. As a visual and spatial learner, Kimora appreciates the value of seeing information presented in different ways and can incorporate visual explanations, examples, and organized steps to support understanding. Outside of academics, one of her favorite hobbies is playing Minecraft! Kimora brings energy, patience, humor, and positivity to her sessions, with the goal of helping students build a strong academic foundation while developing a healthier and more confident relationship with learning.
Aliyah Gaines
Aliyah is a patient, encouraging, and enthusiastic tutor who loves helping students recognize just how capable they are. For her, one of the most rewarding parts of tutoring is watching a student move from feeling stuck or overwhelmed to genuinely understanding a concept and feeling proud of their progress. Aliyah believes academic growth goes beyond improving a grade—she wants students to develop confidence in their abilities and become more comfortable tackling challenges independently. Math is Aliyah’s strongest subject and one she particularly enjoys tutoring. She approaches problems with clarity and emphasizes understanding the process rather than simply arriving at the correct answer. Aliyah teaches students how to analyze a problem, recognize connections between concepts, and determine which strategies will lead them toward a solution. She also thrived in science throughout school, with Pre-Calculus and Biology among her favorite courses. Her love of math and science comes largely from their combination of problem-solving and real-world application. Aliyah’s own academic experiences have also shaped the way she supports her students. While completing dual-enrollment coursework in high school, she struggled at times with balancing her responsibilities, managing her time, and maintaining motivation. Rather than allowing those challenges to define her academic experience, she developed stronger study and sleep habits, became more intentional with her time, and learned to seek help when she needed it. Those experiences taught her an important lesson that she now shares with students: setbacks are part of becoming a stronger learner. Progress comes from being willing to make mistakes, adjust, and keep going. What sets Aliyah apart is her combination of patience, empathy, and strong communication skills. Through years of customer service experience and working in youth-centered roles, she has learned how to meet students where they are and adapt her approach to different personalities and learning needs. She strongly encourages questions and wants students to know there is no such thing as a “dumb” question. When frustration arises, Aliyah first makes sure the student feels heard and understands that struggling with new material is completely normal. She then breaks the concept into smaller, more manageable steps, celebrating progress along the way and adjusting the pace as needed. As a visual and hands-on learner herself, Aliyah enjoys incorporating practice problems, diagrams, drawn examples, and real-world applications into her sessions. She believes actively working through material can make challenging concepts much easier to understand and remember. Outside of tutoring, Aliyah brings a particularly unique STEM background to her work. She conducts undergraduate research at the University of Central Florida focused on amphibian diseases and wildlife conservation. She has also studied abroad in Costa Rica, where she explored tropical ecosystems and gained hands-on experience with wildlife and conservation efforts. Her natural curiosity, resilience, and enthusiasm for learning carry directly into her tutoring, where her goal is to help every student feel supported, capable, and confident enough to keep challenging themselves.