Fun Facts

Ever since I was young, I've been an avid traveler. So far, I've been to Canada, China, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Australia. One of my favorite and most fulfilling aspects of travel is learning of local cultures and histories.
I enjoy biking around LA! I find biking a great way to de-stress from the bustle of college life.
I can play the flute, clarinet, bass clarinet, and alto saxophone (I guess I was never a strings person...). I've been playing music since I was five, and I was part of my high school band for four years, serving as clarinet section leader for one year. While attending college, I picked up an old alto sax from a friend and began learning how to play in my free time. Playing and listening to music is definitely a passion of mine, and I practice from time to time despite my often-busy schedule.

About Me

Hi!
I'm Ricki, currently a third-year undergrad studying chemical engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles. I am an active member and treasurer of the UCLA chapter of the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society (TBP), who provides tutoring and other services for the UCLA and greater Los Angeles community. Upon graduation I hope to land a career in the energy, chemicals, and/or materials industries.

I began tutoring in the summer of 2008; my first student was an 8th grader who needed help in algebra. I have been tutoring continuously since then, devoting several hours every weekend helping students with topics as diverse as writing, SAT prep, calculus, organic chemistry, and even English as a 2nd language. As mentioned, joining TBP has also given me the opportunity to tutor my fellow college students in lower-division math, physical science, and engineering courses. The TBP Tutoring program is highly respected and regarded at UCLA, and we take pride in our service to the community. I hope to convey this standard of excellence as a Frog Tutor!

Whenever I tutor, I often employ a three-pronged technique - what I call "CIA" (comprehension, interactivity, and application). That is, I always first ensure that the student Comprehends the fundamental, necessary concepts. I then encourage the student to demonstrate his or her skills, being as Interactive as possible. Finally, from my experience, many students may be frustrated because they believe the material they are covering has no use in the real world. Therefore, whenever applicable, I often like to show the student how the material can be Applied to solve real-world problems and how the material is important for various career professionals.