One-on-One Science Tutoring: Ace Classes and Tests With Foundation Learning

Sebastian completed his bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Chicago. While he currently works as a research manager for ECHO-Chicago, in partnership with the University of Chicago Medicine, he has been tutoring for five years. He initially began tutoring to simply help his friends and family achieve their educational goals before extending his support to other students. Sebastian has successfully assisted students in gaining admission to esteemed universities like the University of Chicago, Princeton, and Yale.

Sebastian's enthusiasm for tutoring comes from witnessing students transition from unfamiliarity to expertise in a subject. He specializes in ACT and SAT preparation.

Sebastian employs a student-led tutoring style, engaging students with questions and allowing them to guide the material discussion to ensure they get maximum benefit from the sessions. He complements this approach with feedback, suggestions on topic areas, and study tips to enhance the tutoring sessions. Recognizing the intricacies of standardized tests and college applications, Sebastian maintains a light-hearted approach, fosters a supportive environment, and always lends an empathetic ear. He guides students through learning blocks with constant encouragement and diverse resources.

Among Sebastian’s standout traits as a tutor is his ability to simplify complex concepts. As a firm believer that all knowledge is interconnected, he makes difficult content relatable to students to ensure they are able to process it in their own way. 

Having lived in Chicago for 10 years, Sebastian loves exploring the city’s food scene and biking along the lake in his free time.

Aastha completed her Bachelor’s in Anthropology and Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology from Yale University. She is also set to attend the Emory School of Medicine in the fall. Aastha has years of experience tutoring elementary and high school students in a variety of subjects and has also served as an English tutor for over six years. Her tutoring journey began with a simple desire to be an educational guide for students. She finds immense joy in providing students with fresh perspectives on concepts they previously found challenging.

Aastha's passion for tutoring is driven by her desire to help students navigate challenging academic situations and reach their full potential. She specializes in ACT and SAT preparation, as well as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, history, writing, English, and math, including at the AP level.

Aastha's tutoring approach is characterized by adaptability and personalization. Her interdisciplinary thinking enables her to tailor her methods effectively. She invests time in understanding each student's unique style, character, and abilities and then coaches them accordingly. Aastha is non-judgmental and genuinely curious about her students, listening to their challenges and working collaboratively to transform weaknesses into strengths.

Aastha is adept at motivating students and guiding them through learning obstacles. She provides constructive feedback, highlighting their strengths and improvement areas, while acknowledging their hard work. She believes that with consistency, students can develop a fresh perspective on subjects. When students encounter difficulties, she encourages them to take a break to reset. For complex concepts, she breaks them down into manageable parts and uses real-life examples to enhance understanding.

In her free time, Aastha enjoys hiking, reading, and doing yoga. She also has a unique talent for wrapping dumplings quickly!

Jennifer completed a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Chicago before earning an MBA from the University of California, Davis. While at the University of Chicago, Jennifer served as an interviewer and project coordinator for prospective students. She has played a vital role in the admissions process for thousands of applicants and has helped them get into the University of Chicago and UC schools.

Jennifer's coaching approach is deeply rooted in her own experience navigating the college application process. Having been through it herself, she understands the stress and challenges students face. She strives to be the mentor she needed during that time, believing that with the right guidance and support, students can approach their applications with confidence and ease. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of process and structure to ensure each student has the right infrastructure and support to succeed. 

As a coach, Jennifer is personable, cares deeply about students on an individual level, and values open communication. She takes the time to understand what excites them, what drains them, and what they're curious about, believing these inputs are key to uncovering their strengths, growth opportunities, and the environment that best supports them. She meets students where they are, taking the time to tailor her approach effectively. 

Despite her friendly demeanor, Jennifer maintains a strong level of discipline in reaching goals and commitments. She treats her students with respect, allowing them autonomy as emerging adults. Considering this, Jennifer adopts a blended coaching style, checking in frequently to ensure students feel confident about their goals while also holding them accountable, ensuring they can navigate challenges on their own with resilience and determination.

In her free time, Jennifer enjoys exploring new coffee shops and cafes in her neighborhood and the broader SF Bay Area, attempting new crafts and DIY projects, and spending quality time with her toy poodle and husband.