Ithaca Tutors from Cornell University

Exceptional local tutoring with students from one of New York’s prestigious Ivy League colleges

Elite Cornell University students and alumni form the foundation of The Shires Tutoring Company’s Ithaca-based program. Drawing from one of the world’s leading Ivy League institutions, our instructors deliver exceptional results across every academic discipline—whether your student needs help with calculus and organic chemistry, writing and literature, SAT/ACT preparation, or guidance through the college application process. Beyond academics, we connect families with varsity athletes and accomplished artists who mentor students in sports and creative fields. Our approach emphasizes both rigorous instruction and genuine mentorship that builds confidence and capability. The Shires serves Ithaca, Lansing, Cayuga Heights, Jacksonville, Trumansburg, and communities across Tompkins County.
You can meet some of these exceptional tutors below. This is not the full list of tutors from this college town, and if you need a tutor who teaches specific subjects not offered by any of our current tutors at that college, whether listed here or not, then we will work to find a new tutor for you at the college, using our extensive tutor network and contacts.
Leyna
Cornell University, majoring in Biology & Society
Tutoring subjects:
Math, Pre-Algebra, Algebra, Precalculus, Calculus, Biology, Chemistry, Mandarin Chinese, Elementary School Math, Middle School Math, Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry, Trigonometry, Middle School Science
Test scores:
SAT: 1470 (670 English, 790 Math) AP Scores: Biology (4), Calculus AB (4)
My name is Leyna, and I tutor in Ithaca, New York. I'm a sophomore majoring in Biology & Society at Cornell University.

I am available to tutor math (pre-algebra, algebra, pre-calculus, and calculus), as well as introductory biology and chemistry, subjects in which I have consistently excelled throughout my academic program.

I am currently enrolled in advanced coursework such as organic chemistry and neurobiology.

I have over 5 years of tutoring experience. I value working closely with students and families to support each child’s individual learning needs. My tutoring approach emphasizes patience, clear explanations, and encouragement, with the goal of helping students develop both confidence and strong academic foundations. I look forward to growing alongside my students and supporting them as they work toward success!
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Juliana
Cornell University, majoring in Global Development and Anthropology
Tutoring subjects:
K-8 Subjects, English, Writing, Calculus, Korean, Piano, Biology, Elementary School Math, Middle School Math, Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Elementary School Reading & Writing, Grammar, Essays & Research Papers, Literature, Literary Analysis & Close Reading
Test scores:
SAT: 1460 (Reading and Writing 740, Math 720)
My name is Julie. I am a tutor in Ithaca, New York and a sophomore at Cornell University studying Global Development and Anthropology.

I tutor K-12 English, Writing, Math up to Calculus I, Korean (I have native fluency), Piano (I've been playing for 13 years), and Biology, and all subjects K-8. I have extensive experience working with younger students in official education organizations and personally. I have tutored across all disciplines including English, writing, math, and science. Additionally, I speak Korean with native fluency, and have worked as a teacher assistant in a Korean school for 4 years with students as young as 4 years old to as old as 17 years old.

My main hobby is playing piano (I played classical for 13 years and jazz for 2 years), and am willing to teach it as well.

I have seen how my assistance has positively helped students through their educational journey. In my opinion, I believe this was possible because I built a trusting relationship with the student, which allowed them to feel comfortable making mistakes and admitting when they are struggling, and I created a safe environment for them by leading with patience.
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Joanne
Cornell University, majoring in Industrial and Labor Relations with a minor in Business, on the pre-law track
Tutoring subjects:
ACT, Essay Writing, Math, English, History, Korean, Violin, Strings, Creative Writing, Elementary School Math, Middle School Math, Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Elementary School Reading & Writing, Grammar, Essays & Research Papers, Literature, Literary Analysis & Close Reading
Test scores:
ACT: 35 Composite (Math 35, Science 34, English 34, Reading 36) AP Scores: European History (4), English Language (4), English Literature (4), US History (4)
My name is Joanne, and I am an Ithaca, NY tutor and a junior at Cornell University, majoring in the Industrial and Labor Relations school on a pre-law track, while also pursuing a minor in Business. I have several years of experience tutoring and mentoring students from elementary through high school, with a primary focus on English, writing, history, and humanities-based subjects.

My tutoring approach emphasizes clarity, confidence, and curiosity. I love helping students strengthen their reading comprehension, writing skills, and ability to express ideas thoughtfully and persuasively. Whether a student is working on essays, literary analysis, reading skills, or school assignments, I aim to create a supportive environment where they feel comfortable asking questions and developing their voice as a learner and writer. I have worked with students in academic and enrichment settings through organizations such as the Immigration Family Services Institute (IFSI) and as a Casey Dunne Achieve Tutor, supporting students across subjects and helping them build strong study habits.

While my passion lies in the humanities, I am also comfortable tutoring math and science up to the early years of high school! At Cornell, I continue to serve in various mentorship and teaching roles, including as a Peer Mentor, or as Director of New Member Education for my law review, where I support new staff writers’ academic development and writing skills. I also enjoy working with students on standardized test preparation, drawing on my own performance on exams such as the ACT and SSAT, to teach effective strategies and confidence in test-taking.

In addition to academics, I am fluent in Korean and have over 12 years of experience playing the violin, including private instruction and performing with orchestras such as the New England Conservatory Youth Philharmonic Orchestra. I am happy to help students with violin technique, repertoire selection, and audition preparation. I also have a strong background in creative and academic writing, and in high school I received multiple writing awards and essay recognitions, including honors from the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. I especially enjoy helping students refine essays, prepare competition submissions, and build confidence in their writing.

I bring patience, enthusiasm, and adaptability to every session, and I genuinely love teaching. I look forward to partnering with families to help students build the skills, confidence, and motivation they need to thrive, both in school and beyond!
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Avery
Cornell University, majoring in Chemistry and Biology
Tutoring subjects:
Biology, Chemistry, Math, Calculus, English, Writing, Economics, SAT, Elementary School Math, Middle School Math, Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry, Trigonometry, Precalculus, Statistics, AP Calculus BC, Middle School Science, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, Elementary School Reading & Writing, Grammar, Literature, Essays & Research Papers, Literary Analysis & Close Reading, Social Studies, U.S. History
Test scores:
SAT: 1570 (Verbal 770, Math 800) AP Scores: Biology (5), Calculus BC (5), Chemistry (5), English Literature (5), Environmental Science (4), Macroeconomics (5), Microeconomics (5), Spanish Language and Culture (5), Statistics (4), United States History (5)
My name is Avery, and I’m a tutor in Ithaca, New York and a junior pursuing a double major in Chemistry and Biology at Cornell University. I have a strong academic foundation and a genuine passion for mentorship, leadership, and community engagement. As a pre-med student, I’m deeply interested in both the science behind medicine and the human connections that make learning meaningful.

I tutor AP Biology, AP Chemistry, Math (AP Calculus AB & BC, SAT), English/writing (college applications), AP Economics, and SAT preparation (I scored 1570 with 770 on Verbal 770 and 800 on Math). My AP scores were Biology (5), Calculus BC (5), Chemistry (5), English Literature and Composition (5), Environmental Science (4), Macroeconomics (5), Microeconomics (5), Spanish Language and Culture (5), Statistics (4), and United States History (5).

On campus, I am in my third semester as an undergraduate teaching assistant across multiple courses, where I support students in mastering fundamental research practices and advanced biochemistry laboratory techniques. Through these experiences, I’ve learned how to explain complex material clearly, anticipate common misconceptions, and adapt my teaching style to different learning needs. In addition, I have several years of experience as a private tutor in AP Biology and college essay writing, and I enjoy helping students break down challenging concepts into structured, approachable steps tailored to their strengths. Beyond academics, my research and leadership experiences have shaped my teaching philosophy.

Serving in leadership roles on my club volleyball team and in the Weill Ithaca Network, a pre-medical organization, has strengthened my organization, communication, and mentorship skills. As a longtime taekwondo instructor, I’ve worked with students of all ages, helping them build discipline, confidence, and resilience which are qualities I believe are just as important as academic achievement.

My teaching philosophy centers on patience, adaptability, and encouragement. I believe every student learns differently, so I prioritize meeting students where they are and creating a supportive environment where they feel comfortable asking questions, taking intellectual risks, and growing in confidence. I am open to 1-on-1, 2-on-1, and small group tutoring, and I would be thrilled to support you or your student through thoughtful, personalized instruction.
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Subjects our tutors cover

ACTAP BiologyAP Calculus BCAP ChemistryAlgebraAlgebra 1Algebra 2BiologyCalculusChemistryCreative WritingEconomicsElementary School MathElementary School Reading & WritingEnglishEssay WritingEssays & Research PapersGeometryGrammarHistoryK-8 SubjectsKoreanLiterary Analysis & Close ReadingLiteratureMandarin ChineseMathMiddle School MathMiddle School SciencePianoPre-AlgebraPrecalculusSATSocial StudiesStatisticsStringsTrigonometryU.S. HistoryViolinWriting
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q. How do I request a session with a tutor?
Email Ryan@ShiresTutoring.com and mention you'd like to work with a tutor at your local college. You can mention your preferred tutor or tutors by name, or fill out our Request a Tutor form. We'll follow up within one business day to confirm availability and schedule your first session.
Q. How quickly can we get started with tutoring?
Usually within a week. Reach out, we'll confirm which tutors are available for you in your town or online, and schedule a first session from there.
Q. What subjects, sports, and arts do your tutors cover?
Our tutors cover a wide range — academics including math, science, English, history, languages, and test prep (SAT, ACT, AP); athletics including tennis, soccer, lacrosse, and more; and arts including drawing, painting, theater, piano, violin, and creative writing. Each tutor's specific subjects are listed on their individual profile.
Q. What if the tutor isn't the right fit?
If the chemistry isn't there after the first session, let us know and we'll find you a better match.
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