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Award-Winning Common Core Math Tutors

Eric

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Eric

Bachelor's
Eric's other Tutor Subjects
1st-10th Grade math
K-5th Grade Reading
Nutrition
SAT Essay

As a medical student at Rush, Eric learned to master dense, unfamiliar material by building understanding layer by layer — the same skill Common Core math demands when it asks a third grader to show three different ways to solve 24 × 5. He walks students through strategies like area models and place...

Education

University of Chicago

Bachelor's

Ahmed

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Ahmed

Doctorate (e.g., PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Ahmed's other Tutor Subjects
1st-12th Grade math
8th Grade Accelerated Math
Pre-Algebra
Trigonometry

An electrical engineering doctorate gives Ahmed an unusual edge with Common Core math: engineering problems demand exactly the kind of multi-step reasoning, visual modeling, and conceptual flexibility these standards are built around. He unpacks area models, number lines, and place-value strategies ...

Education

University of British Columbia

Doctorate (e.g., PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

Cairo University

Undergraduate Degree

Alexandra

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Alexandra

MS
Alexandra's other Tutor Subjects
Cell Biology
Neuroscience
AP Biology
AP Chemistry

Get to know me professionally: Why are you passionate about helping students? I understand that navigating different forms of coursework can be difficult, especially as you continue to progress in your academic career. I believe that careful consideration should be given to how you study for a par...

Education

Rice University

MS

University of North Texas Health Science Center

MS

Pauline

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Pauline

MS
Pauline's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Middle School Math
Algebra
IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches

I am a PhD student at UT Southwestern Medical Center. I have received my Master's in Biotechnology at Johns Hopkins University and my Bachelor's in Biochemistry at Southern Methodist University. I've tutored middle school, high school, and college students in math (Algebra I & II, Geometry, Calc...

Education

Johns Hopkins University

MS

Southern Methodist University

MS

Sara

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Sara

Bachelor's (in progress)
Sara's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Multivariable Calculus
Trigonometry
Pre-Calculus

I'm a rising sophomore at Columbia University, majoring in Mechanical Engineering. My journey as a tutor began in 10th grade when I ran volunteer tutoring labs in math, physics, and chemistry. I had classmates struggling with stoichiometry, peers needing an algebra refresher, or a group of panicked ...

Education

Columbia University

Bachelor's (in progress)

Benicio

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Benicio

Bachelor
Benicio's other Tutor Subjects
AP Calculus BC
AP Calculus AB
Pre-Calculus
College Math

I am a current student of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where I am studying biology and Spanish primarily. I've tutored for many years under school programs in a variety of subjects, but I am most passionate about biology, math, and history. I like to use my personal experience in thes...

Education

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Bachelor

Linford

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Linford

MDV
Linford's other Tutor Subjects
PSAT Writing Skills
SSAT- Upper Level
SAT Reading
ACT English

I am a committed mentor and scholar passionate about enabling students to meet and exceed their learning goals. With Masters degrees from Northwestern and Yale, I have experience tutoring students from diverse backgrounds in Israel/Palestine and across the United States. My favorite subjects to tuto...

Education

Yale University

MDV

Millersville University of Pennsylvania

MDV

Elizabeth

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Elizabeth

AM
Elizabeth's other Tutor Subjects
SAT Reading
College Essays
Writing
Reading

Hi, really nice to meet you! I have 10 years experience teaching GRE. I taught GRE and GMAT as an Adjunct Professor at American University for 3 years, which enhanced my ability to create a standardized GRE itinerary for the classroom. I have taught GRE at Varsity Tutors for 5 years, in person and v...

Education

Vanderbilt University

AM

Chris

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Chris

PhD
Chris's other Tutor Subjects
Organic Chemistry
Chemistry
College Chemistry
Math Substitute

During high school I found that I really enjoyed chemistry. This pushed me to pursue and obtain multiple degrees in chemistry. I obtained my Bachelor's and Master's degree from the University of Idaho. While I was an undergraduate I was lucky enough to conduct research on the synthesis of new orga...

Education

University of Chicago

PhD

University of Idaho

PhD

Grishma

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Grishma

Professional (JD, MD, DMD, etc)
Grishma's other Tutor Subjects
Middle School Math
Geometry
Algebra
Elementary School Math

I'm passionate about helping students because I've seen how meaningful support can turn uncertainty into confidence. Having excelled academically myselfI graduated in the top 1% of my high school class and completed a rigorous AP curriculum in subjects like Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Calculus BC, ...

Education

Northwestern University

Bachelor

Loyola University-Chicago

Professional (JD, MD, DMD, etc)

Meet Our Expert Tutors

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Lukas

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +48 Subjects

Certified Teacher. Hi! My name is Lukas Brazdeikis and I have a strong background in computer science, physics, math, and designing course material. I will help your student learn as effectively as I can while also showing them the practical value of the knowledge they learn. I recently graduated from Duke University with a Master's in computer engineering. I also have an education minor from my undergrad. My course load has included computer science, computer skills, physics, math, chemistry, biology, geology, history, English, and business. I have plenty of experience in teaching and designing course content. I have designed my own 30-hour online course and have excellent communication and motivation skills. My advanced degree tells you I have the academic background to teach most STEM or business subjects depending on the age range. My teaching style is focused on being effective. I am effective by learning what motivates my students, finding ways to personalize teaching material, and demonstrating the practical value of the knowledge they learn. I specialize in the following: GRE quantitative, GMAT, high school math, high school computer science, and college computer science.

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Nico

AP Statistics Tutor • +62 Subjects

I'm a student at Yale University majoring in both Economics and Global Affairs. Over the past 4 years, I am lucky to have worked with students of all ages and helped them reach their full potential. I offer tutoring services in all subjects, and I'm particularly interested in English, Economics, Government, and Math. My teaching philosophy centers on creating a safe, welcoming environment where students can learn at their own pace. Outside of academics, I enjoy spending time outside and enjoying good food with family and friends.

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Zachary

AP Calculus AB Tutor • +50 Subjects

I am a driven, positive, affirming tutor who is happy to help students in any way he can. I graduated magna cum laude from Dartmouth College in 2020, and I obtained my Master's in Political Science from the University of Toronto in 2022. In 2016, I received an SAT score of 1550. That year, I also received a 5 on my AP exams in Calculus AB, English Language, U.S. History, and U.S. Government. I am happy to tutor students in mathematics, English, and social sciences (e.g., history, government). I especially enjoy tutoring pre-algebra and algebra. I believe in a practice-based approach in which I take students step-by-step through the concepts at hand. After practicing together with my guidance, the student will soon be able to apply what they have learned on their own.

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Viswanath

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +35 Subjects

I am a bioengineer who has experience working in the biotech startup industry. I received my Master of Science in Engineering in Bioengineering from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh. While at the University of Pittsburgh, I started to tutor my fellow peers in Engineering Physics I: Mechanics and Engineering Physics 2: Electricity & Magnetism, and it was then that I discovered my passion for tutoring. Seeing a student not only understand physics, but actually enjoy learning about it was easily the most rewarding aspect of tutoring. Their enjoyment led to success and further study of the material, and I was very happy to have contributed to that. From my experiences, I observed that a teaching philosophy based on constant questioning, student participation, and interdisciplinary learning provided the greatest enjoyment and success for students. Relating the material in a manner which the student understands has always been a priority of mine, and combining this approach with a logical, building-block type style has yielded strong results for me and the student. While I do tutor mathematics, usually ranging from Calculus I all the way to Differential Equations, I am most passionate about teaching physics. It is rewarding to see how a student who learns physics understands and appreciates the world around them on a deeper level. In the end, I wish to help students not only learn physics, but also enjoy learning physics, and I hope to spread this appreciation to all my students. Outside of work, I greatly enjoy going to museums, playing and watching all kinds of sports, hiking and other outdoor activities, reading philosophy, and playing guitar.

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Angela

Regents Tutor • +8 Subjects

I am a recent graduate of The University of Pennsylvania. I received my Bachelor of Arts with honors in Neuroscience with two minors in Chemistry and East Asian Area Studies. After graduation, I am now pursuing a Master of Science in Neuroscience at the University College London. I have been tutoring since I was 18 for students aged 4 to 12. Additionally, I was also hired as a teaching assistant in the Department of Chemistry during my last year of undergraduate studies. While I have tutored a few subjects before, I am most passionate about English as a second language, Chemistry, and Chinese language (conversational as well). As a first-generation graduate, I believe education has a crucial impact on life, and I want to contribute back to the teaching community the same way I was influenced in academia. In my leisure time, I enjoy working out, traveling, going to concerts, and trying all kinds of cuisines!

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Zoe

Elementary School Math Tutor • +29 Subjects

Hello, I hold two soon-to-be three Ivy League degrees, an undergrad and graduate degree from the University of Pennslyvania and I am currently getting a second Masters from Harvard in Education Leadership. I know what it takes to write an essay or application to get into your dream school and specialize in college application support. I guarantee if your student has a complete essay draft we can polish it in a single two-hour session. Additionally, I am a licensed elementary school teacher with a Master's in elementary education I have educational experience as a kindergarten teacher, second-grade reading tutor, and college readiness tutor. I am skilled in reading and math help in the lower grades K-2 for children who need support in those subjects.

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Sophia

Middle School Math Tutor • +35 Subjects

I am a sophomore at Cornell University studying Biological Sciences and Spanish. I do molecular bio/genetics research with fruit flies, dance, and sing in the CU chorus. I was the student director of my high school's Academic Resource Center, tutoring in math, science, Spanish, and SAT/ACT for 3+ years. I have worked with Varsity Tutors for about 2 years.

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Alexander

Middle School Math Tutor • +17 Subjects

I am a researcher who graduated with a Ph.D. in materials science and engineering from Penn State University and a B.S. in applied physics from Columbia University. I have found great passion in teaching and mentoring students in physics and materials science, whether through informal educational training activities at the Discovery Space, assisting in laboratory classrooms for undergraduates, or helping students with difficult problem sets for thermodynamics or quantum mechanics. I've seen the best success when students can interact with a complicated concept in multiple ways and pull on their own experiences as metaphors to the system in question - after all, this is part of how science is actually done! Currently in my spare time, I enjoy reading, strategy games, and learning Mandarin.

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Chase

Middle School Math Tutor • +16 Subjects

As a student pursuing a Bachelor's in Chemistry from Duke University, I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm for the sciences and mathematics. Though I have experience in tutoring, I view every session as an opportunity to foster a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable to ask questions and explore concepts deeply. My specialties include ACT and SAT preparation, as well as subjects like Algebra, Calculus, and Chemistry. I believe in a hands-on approach that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills. I am dedicated to helping students not only achieve their academic goals but also develop a genuine interest in learning.

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Kaitlin

Algebra Tutor • +14 Subjects

Hello! My name is Kaitlin, and I am a recent graduate from Yale University. As a STEM major on the premed path, I specialize in STEM subjects, but also excelled in high school english and reading courses. I am an FGLI student from a small town in PA and have made it this far through A LOT of studying, and therefore I have found some fun and effective ways to study, especially in difficult subjects. I have a passion for learning and teaching, and can't wait to help you out!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common Core Math prioritizes conceptual understanding over rote memorization because it builds deeper mathematical thinking. Instead of just learning "the steps" to solve a problem, students learn the underlying logic—like understanding that 24 ÷ 4 connects to "how many groups of 4 are in 24?" rather than just following a division algorithm. This approach helps students apply math flexibly to new situations and recognize patterns across different topics. A tutor can bridge this gap by helping students see the connections between concrete models (like area arrays or number lines) and abstract procedures, making the "why" click.

Common Core emphasizes multiple solution strategies and clear communication of thinking, which is different from traditional "show your work" formats. A tutor can help students articulate their reasoning using models like tape diagrams, area models, number lines, and equations—tools that are central to Common Core instruction. For example, a student solving a multi-step word problem can learn to draw a tape diagram to visualize the relationships, then explain each step using that visual. This bridges the gap between getting an answer and demonstrating mathematical reasoning in ways that align with how their classroom teaches.

Common Core word problems require students to identify the mathematical structure within a real-world scenario—deciding whether to add, subtract, multiply, or divide—rather than just following keywords. Many students struggle because they're used to pattern-matching ("if it says 'altogether,' add") rather than understanding the actual relationships. A tutor can teach students to break down word problems systematically: identify what's known, what's unknown, and what operation makes sense. Using visual strategies like drawing pictures, making tape diagrams, or acting out the problem helps students see the math embedded in the story, building confidence and accuracy.

In Common Core, solving equations like 3x + 5 = 20 isn't just about memorizing "move it to the other side and change the sign." Instead, students learn to think about equations as balanced statements—whatever you do to one side, you must do to the other. A tutor can help students visualize this balance using concrete models or diagrams, then connect those visuals to the abstract algebraic steps. This conceptual foundation makes it easier for students to understand why the steps work, solve unfamiliar equation types, and catch their own errors rather than just following a procedure blindly.

Common Core emphasizes that equations, tables, and graphs are different representations of the same mathematical relationship—a key insight that many students miss. A tutor can help students move fluidly between these representations: starting with a real-world context, creating a table of values, writing an equation, and sketching a graph. By explicitly connecting these forms, students develop a deeper understanding of functions and linear relationships. For example, recognizing that the slope in an equation (like y = 2x + 3) appears as the rate of change in a table and the steepness of the line on a graph helps students see math as interconnected rather than isolated procedures.

Math anxiety often stems from feeling lost when the "why" isn't clear, which is common when students transition to Common Core's conceptual approach. A tutor works at a student's pace, breaking concepts into smaller chunks and using multiple representations (visuals, manipulatives, real-world examples) until the concept truly clicks. This personalized approach reduces frustration because students aren't rushed and can ask questions without self-consciousness. As students experience success understanding concepts deeply rather than just memorizing steps, their confidence grows—and they often discover that math makes more sense than they thought.

Different textbooks and curricula emphasize different models and strategies within the Common Core framework—one might rely heavily on tape diagrams while another uses area models or number lines. A tutor can help students adapt by teaching the underlying mathematical concepts that transcend any single curriculum. They can also help students learn the specific models and language their new school uses, bridging gaps between what they learned before and what's expected now. This flexibility ensures students understand the core math rather than just memorizing a particular textbook's approach.

Common Core Math is built on recognizing patterns and making connections—like seeing that multiplication is repeated addition, or that the distributive property appears in area models and equations. A tutor helps students notice these patterns by asking guiding questions and encouraging exploration: "What do you notice? What's the same? What's different?" Rather than telling students the rule, tutors guide them to discover patterns themselves. This develops mathematical thinking skills that transfer across topics, helping students solve unfamiliar problems by recognizing similar structures they've seen before.

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