Erika H. (IN A NUTSHELL)

After taking a gap year to travel the world, I am now pursuing a major in Earth Systems (environmental based research) and a minor in Symbolic Systems (an intersection of computer science, psychology, linguistics, and philosophy). As a Norwegian American, I have a deep passion for the outdoors, exploring different cultures, and Arctic research. I have previously worked as a tutor for kids with English as their second language, teaching a variety of subjects including math and english. My biggest hobby is photography, and I love expressing myself creatively through poetry, writing, and painting. In high school, I graduated at the top of my class while working on a research project regarding social justice movements, volunteering as a congressional youth fellow, and working as a rock climbing instructor and scout leader. I was also very involved in the National Art Honor Society, mainly for my pointillism drawings. My approach to teaching is student-centered and focused on building each student's confidence and academic strengths. I believe that all students can succeed with the right support, and I am committed to working closely with each student to understand their individual needs and challenges, and to develop customized strategies to help them succeed. Inspiring creativity in everything from math to art and helping students pursue their passions is something that is extremely important to me.