Meet Kathryn

Hi, I’m Kathryn!

I specialize in one-on-one tutoring for math, science (especially physics), and standardized test prep. My style focuses on helping students become better learners: not just teaching them content, but also developing executive functioning tools such as organization, time management, note taking, and managing priorities. I am focused on helping my students improve their learning skills: strengthening self-monitoring, developing confidence, and having a productive attitude about learning. My goal is to help students become independent, successful life-long learners.

My background

I began tutoring while studying physics in college. When I graduated, I got my dream job doing research on rechargeable batteries at Lawrence Berkeley Lab. I quickly discovered that research wasn’t for me after all. I dreaded going into the lab to spend another day alone with the equipment. I found myself missing my tutoring clients. That's how I realized that my passion isn’t research after all, but education! 

I love working one on one with students. There is nothing as satisfying as seeing a lightbulb moment as a concept clicks into place. I love seeing the joy on a client’s face when they take pride in their achievements.

I ditched the lab job and have been tutoring in the San Francisco Bay area ever since. It's been over 20 years now, and I still love every minute of it!

My tutoring philosophy

I believe anyone is capable of learning and enjoying it. Of course, tutoring involves explaining content, but oftentimes my role also involves dispelling the “I can’t” or "I'm not good at math" stories that people tell themselves. Everyone can learn if they put in the effort and have the support they need. Sometimes students need a little bit of encouragement to gain the confidence to push through difficulties.

I am a big believer in the growth mindset. This means believing that abilities can change and develop through effort and practice. I believe that there are no “math people” or “non-math people” (this applies to all types of ability, but I’ll use math as my example). This idea is detrimental to people who self-identify with either label.

• If math class has always been easy, you may think you are a “math person” with innate talent. But that means that you might get frustrated and give up when you encounter difficult material. You can have an identity crisis if you expect math to be easy, but find you are not understanding something new right away. This could cause you to shy away from challenges and play it safe. In these cases, I encourage students to seek out more challenging material and not be afraid to struggle and make mistakes.

• If you have always found math class difficult and you compare yourself to quicker learners, you may think you are a “non-math person.” You have already decided that you aren’t capable of succeeding and might not see a reason to bother trying. But skills can be learned, and abilities can grow. With the right tools (like a tutor!) and effort you can improve both your knowledge and the learning skills to help you continue to grow your mind!

A growth mindset doesn’t mean that everyone learns at the same rate and with the same amount of effort, or that everyone is capable of achieving the same levels of expertise. Rather it means that no matter what level one is at, everyone is capable of learning and improving with a little bit of grit.

I can help you grow as a learner

I can help you or your child form a healthy learning mindset and build tools to make learning more efficient, and I will make the whole process rewarding and fun. Most importantly, I am talented at teaching in a way that is understandable to people at all levels and with all learning styles. Just read my testimonials below to find out what some of my clients have to say about me.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if there's anything else you would like to know!