Agate Tutoring

I’ve been tutoring independently and online since early 2022, working with a variety of students, including elementary school through graduate school in different subjects. My experience includes both single-session homework help and long-term tutoring happening multiple times a week.

Environmental Education

In addition to standard academic work, I’ve also worked extensively in the environmental education field. I’m currently a naturalist and educator at a local wildlife park, where I work with place-based knowledge and experience-based empathy. I’ve also worked as a park ranger for the NPS. As a part of these experiences, I’ve taken courses and done independent research on “environmental interpretation” - a type of teaching that focuses on connecting people with their environment and ecosystem, and uses a combination of traditional teaching methods and alternate education ideas. What I’ve learned as an environmental interpreter definitely shapes my tutoring strategy, and informs how I work with students.

Biology Lab Instructor

From 2019-2020, I taught biology labs at the University of Colorado - Denver. The course focused on the small: molecules and cells. We employed hands-on methods to understand basic concepts, from DNA to microbiomes. During the spring semester, I also helped the department to navigate the sudden transition to online learning.

While teaching, I also took a Pedagogy course in the biology department, which focused on common teaching styles and techniques.

Chemistry Peer Learning Assistant

From 2015-2017, I was a Peer Learning Assistant for the chemistry department at the University of Oregon. As a PLA, I led small, tutorial-style sessions several times a week during which students could come in and work on their homework and studying in a supportive environment. I helped students and small groups to understand content and to improve study skills and learning strategies.

I also participated in a cutting-edge early intervention program, in which students who were struggling in the first few weeks of the course met weekly for extra learning opportunities and a chance to improve their final grade. During this program, I worked with many students who struggled in the traditional learning environment and with test anxiety.

During this time, I also participated in a weekly Pedagogy workshop in which we discussed tutoring strategies, learning theory, and helping students to be in control of their own learning.