Frequently Asked Questions
where do i get the Ultimate Math Formula Cheat Sheet?
This is easy! Click this button to download the Cheat Sheet. Keep it nearby for reference.
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When a new student joins Leveraged Learning, the first step is shifting the focus from “getting the homework done” to genuinely understanding the material.
- Discovery & Diagnostic: We establish a baseline through diagnostic testing (SAT/GRE) or a review of recent assignments to pinpoint foundational gaps.
- Strategic Roadmap: I design a customized study plan to teach critical thinking and complex problem-solving.
- Continuous Momentum: Students use our “Ask the Tutor” platform between sessions to submit difficult homework problems and receive step-by-step solutions to keep moving forward.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My background bridges STEM expertise and advanced pedagogy. I hold a B.S. in Chemistry and Mathematics from the University of Houston, allowing me to teach advanced subjects seamlessly. I also earned an M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction from Montana State University-Bozeman, and I am an Ed.D. Candidate at Boston University. This training allows me to look past an incorrect answer, identify the root misconception, and fix it permanently.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons?
Yes. We always start with a free 30-minute consultation. Following that, our standard rate for one-on-one, customized tutoring is $70 per hour for all core subjects and standardized test prep. This applies to virtual sessions and in-office sessions in Seekonk, MA. For sessions at a local library, an IRS business mileage travel fee is invoiced separately.
How did you get started teaching?
My journey into teaching was driven by a dual passion: a love for complex STEM subjects and a deep fascination with the science of how people actually learn. While earning my Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Mathematics, I quickly realized that understanding high-level material and explaining it are two entirely different skill sets. I saw incredibly bright peers struggling simply because the standard way material was taught didn’t click for their specific learning style. But the real epiphany happened when I was in the work force: adult learners had the same problems, and their teachers – who were usually their supervisors – often lacked the skills to teach effectively as well. Clearly, this was a problem for all ages and all stages of life.
That realization changed my trajectory. I wanted to master the pedagogy behind the subjects, leading me to pursue my Master of Education and subsequent doctoral studies. I started tutoring one-on-one because I wanted to provide the personalized mentorship that helps students overcome their academic anxiety and finally experience those vital “aha!” moments that large classrooms often miss.
What types of students have you worked with?
I focus exclusively on high school and undergraduate students, typically falling into three categories:
- The Overwhelmed Student: Bright students left with foundational gaps who need to rebuild their confidence.
- The High-Achieving Test Taker: Ambitious students aiming for top-tier university admissions who need rigorous SAT/GRE preparation.
- The Undergraduate STEM Major: College students navigating complex coursework like Calculus or Physics who need to truly master the material.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look beyond raw subject knowledge. Ask about their teaching methodology to ensure they focus on the “why” behind the formulas. Demand a customized strategy rather than a one-size-fits-all plan. Finally, always test the dynamic first. Never commit to a package without meeting the tutor, which is exactly why I mandate a free consultation.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Before reaching out, consider:
- What does “success” actually look like for me (e.g., passing a class vs. a 99th percentile score)?
- Where exactly am I getting stuck (homework, test anxiety, foundational gaps)?
- How do I learn best (visual models, step-by-step walkthroughs)?
- How much time can I realistically commit?