Archives

Brina L.

Greetings! My name is Brina, and I’m here at the ready to help students approach their academics with a little less stress and a lot more confidence. I graduated from UCLA with a degree in Applied Mathematics and, over the years, have worked with students of all ages, learning styles, and academic needs. I’ve helped students tackle everything from grammatical errors to tricky equations to exam strategies, and I know how to break down complex concepts into more accessible pieces. 

Of course, you might think I stick to tutoring math subjects—and to be fair, I do love supporting students in everything from Algebra to AP Calculus, as well as DSAT/ACT math prep. However, I’m just as excited to dive into DSAT Reading & Writing, ACT English/Reading/Science, AP Environmental Science, Python, Chemistry, Physics, and—my favorite—AP Physics C: Mechanics.
Some of my more unusual interests include a minor in Atmospheric Science (ask me about tornadoes), over ten years of performing arts experience (both onstage and behind the scenes), and a love for knitting (mostly hats and socks) and crocheting (little critters). But those aren’t just fun facts: my physical science background helps me explain seemingly abstract ideas in tangible ways; my theatrical background helps me connect and communicate with students while keeping them engaged; and my creative background has taught me how to think outside the box and strategically problem-solve. 

My goal is always to help students understand WHY something works—not just memorize that it does—so that they can build lasting confidence and apply their knowledge beyond the classroom. Because everyone learns differently, I tailor my approach to each student, helping them reach—or even exceed—their academic goals!

Kelly-C

Kelly C.

‘Ello, ‘ello, hola! Ciao and bonjour! (Sorry, I don’t actually know Italian and French, but I needed to complete the line. It’s a Pokémon reference.) My name is Kelly, and I’m an all-around wordsmith, providing support in all areas of English, from high school and college-level English and writing to the Reading and Writing sections of the ACT and SAT. I also work with Insight’s Counseling Team as an Essay Specialist, helping YOU stand out to the colleges on your list—and potentially get some scholarship money, if that is something you wish to apply for. I received a B.A. (Bachelor’s of Arts) in English Language & Literature from Smith College, where I made Dean’s List and won two (cash-prize) essay awards. That wasn’t enough for me, though, because the VERY NEXT thing I did was go to graduate school, specifically Harvard Graduate School of Education, to earn an M.Ed. (Master’s of Education), with a specialty in Human Development and Education and the Higher Education sector. Yes, indeed, I am That Person ™ who really likes school—so much that I decided I want to work in schools! Most recently, I taught an intro-level general education writing course, ENGL 1007 Seminar in Multimodal Composition and Academic Writing, at the University of Connecticut, so I am intimately familiar with the trials, tribulations, but also triumphs of the first year of college (which are quite similar no matter where you go), as well as the kinds of things that makes professors tic.

Not enough words to describe who I am? Now you’re speaking my language!

Beyond the various letters after my name, I am a gamer. (Could you tell?) I grew up with only Nintendo Consoles (hence the many Pokémon references), but I’m expanding out to include Steam in my repertoire as well. I enjoy RPGs (Yay for words!) and roguelites (RogueLITE and not rogueLIKE, but I need some level of progression in return for the hours I sink in). I also (unsurprisingly, perhaps) like to write. I’ve actually published a young-adult novel, called All Ways. Lastly, I’m passionate about disability culture, history, and advocacy. How passionate? I created a public-facing website about the differences between the K12 and higher education system for students with disabilities on my own time.

While I live, I want to shine. (Believe it or not, another Pokémon quote!) The way I have chosen to do that in my life is to help others tap into their brilliance as well, so we can twinkle both as individual stars and band together in the sky of history as constellations. (No, I will not apologize for using metaphors.) If you would prefer a simile, my advising style is to be like a co-pilot: I might have a map of the area, but you are the one who picks the destination and knows the vehicle best. We work together. As I said before, I will not apologize for using metaphors, and if you’ve heard this one before, it’s for a good reason: Life is a marathon, not a sprint. We are best able to maintain our stamina (and our equally-vital sense of curiosity) when we communicate and BOTH make agreements.

I will leave you with this last nugget of wisdom: “It is what you do with the gift of life [and education] that determines who you are.” (A third Pokémon quote to end this off—this time, an oldie but goodie! If you don’t already know about the Rule of Threes, we’ll talk about it. :P)

Gary F.

Hey there! The name’s Gary, and I’m your go-to chemistry guru. I snagged a Ph.D. in Chemistry from UC Santa Cruz back when electric cars were children’s toys, then rocked the scene as a tenured chemistry professor at De Anza College for a solid 15 years. Yep, I’ve been stirring up exothermic knowledge for a whopping 30 years now. Currently, I’m hanging out at West Valley College, but I’ve done my rounds, popping up at Santa Clara University, UC Santa Cruz, San Jose State, Cabrillo College, San Jose City College, and Mission College.

Now, here’s where it gets fun. Alongside my college gigs, I’ve been moonlighting as a high school chemistry whisperer since 2011. Whether it’s regular Chemistry or Chemistry Honors or just helping kids survive AP Chemistry and ace the AP exam, I’m there. Oh, and let’s not forget my one-on-one tutoring escapades at Insight—I’ve tackled every level of chemistry, from basic reactions to Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry for those brave Middle College souls.

But hey, teaching’s not just about throwing facts at you—it’s about keeping things lively. That’s why I sprinkle in humor and storytelling to keep you hooked and learning every step of the way. So buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a wild ride through the world of chemistry!

 

Ready to meet with Gary? Email us at info@insight-education.net to find out more information and request a time to meet!

Jennifer W

Jennifer W.

Well, folks, let me introduce myself – I’m Jennifer. Picture this: I’m a rocket scientist turned educator. Yup, you heard that right! I kicked off my journey with an undergrad degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from Princeton University, then decided to crank up the nerd factor with a Master’s degree in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from Stanford University.

Before diving headfirst into academia, I spent some quality time at the NASA Ames Research Center, geeking out over research projects that were out of this world – literally. But eventually, I figured it was time to share my brainpower with the next generation.

Fast forward 15 years, and here I am, still going strong in the high school academic scene. Math? You betcha. Digital SAT Math and CRW, ACT Math/Science/Reading/Writing, AP Calculus, AP Statistics – you name it, I’ve probably taught it. And let’s not forget about my science chops – AP Physics, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, Engineering – I’ve got those covered too. Oh, and throw in some AP English, AP History, and AP Economics for good measure.

But hey, my real talent? It’s not just about knowing my stuff; it’s about getting in the trenches with my students and helping them conquer their academic mountains. Whether it’s cracking jokes about quadratic equations or finding the perfect analogy to explain photosynthesis, I’m all about that personalized approach.

So, if you’re ready to blast off into the world of education with a sprinkle of humor and a whole lot of expertise, buckle up – because with me, the sky’s not the limit, it’s just the beginning.

Ready to meet with Jennifer? Email us at info@insight-education.net to find out more information and request a time to meet!