Hello! My name is Lexi, and I am a Chemical Engineering student at Northwestern University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, and a Certificate in Energy and Sustainability. I have always been passionate about understanding how science can be used to solve real-world problems, whether that means analyzing chemistry concepts, applying math and physics to engineering challenges, or exploring new technologies in energy and sustainability. My long-term goal is to work in engineering and research, and I chose chemical engineering because it combines problem-solving, creativity, laboratory work, and real-world impact in a way that genuinely excites me. My coursework has given me advanced experience in areas such as calculus, differential equations, thermodynamics, organic chemistry, and physical chemistry, which allows me to confidently support students across a wide range of topics. I understand firsthand how challenging STEM courses can be when concepts aren’t explained clearly. My approach is to break down complex material into simple, logical steps and help students build a deep understanding of the “why” behind each concept. This not only improves performance in the short term but also helps students develop long-term problem-solving skills. Throughout high school and college, I have built a strong academic foundation in math, chemistry, physics, engineering, and materials science. In the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, I earned a total score of 43 points and received 7s in Higher Level Math Analysis and Approaches, Chemistry, and Physics. I was also recognized as a National Merit Scholar. My background in both engineering and research has taught me how to approach difficult problems carefully, break them down into manageable steps, and communicate complex ideas clearly. I work with elementary, middle school, and high school students, whether they need help catching up, preparing for exams, or strengthening their overall understanding. I tailor each session to the individual student’s needs and learning style, creating a structured but supportive environment where questions are encouraged, and progress is consistent. My teaching philosophy centers on encouragement and active problem-solving. I believe students learn best when they feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and working through the reasoning behind each step. Whether I am helping a student with algebra, preparing for a chemistry or physics exam, or strengthening study habits, I focus on building understanding rather than simply memorizing procedures. Rather than just providing answers, I guide students through the thought process so they can apply what they learn to future challenges. I focus on tailoring each session to the student’s learning style and create activities and practice problems that directly target how they learn best. I also emphasize pattern recognition and problem-solving strategies, helping students become more independent and confident over time.
If you have a specific tutor in mind, you're welcome to request them directly — we'll confirm whether they're available and the right fit for your student. Otherwise, Ryan writes a personal email to understand your student's needs, learning style, and goals — then handpicks a tutor from the roster. You're not filling out a form and getting assigned randomly. If the first tutor isn't the right fit after the first session, we'll find you a better match at no extra charge.
Yes. Many families start with a single session to see how the tutor and student connect before committing to a regular schedule. There's no pressure to book in advance — reach out and we'll set something up.
Yes. Many of our tutors are strong across several subjects, and sessions can cover more than one if that's what the student needs that week. Flexibility is built into how we work.
Most of our tutors continue working through breaks, either online or in-person at the college if the tutors remain on campus during that vacation. We'll let you know in advance if a tutor has a gap in availability and arrange coverage with one of our other tutors — in-person or online — in the required subject.
Occasionally, if the student lives very close to the tutor's campus. Most sessions take place on or near the college campus or online. This keeps sessions in an academically focused environment — which tends to produce better results.
The families who see the biggest results are the ones who commit to a regular cadence — typically once, twice, or three times a week. One-on-one tutoring with a student from an elite college, who genuinely understands the material, is a fundamentally different experience from a tutoring center or an app. Most of our clients stay with us for multiple semesters.
Email Ryan@ShiresTutoring.com and mention which tutor and college town you're interested in, or fill out our Request a Tutor form. We typically respond within one business day.
That depends on where your student is starting and how consistently they show up. Lexi will identify the specific gaps, focus sessions on them, and adjust as the student progresses. Families who stick to a weekly schedule typically see meaningful progress within four to six weeks.
Email Ryan@ShiresTutoring.com and mention you'd like to work with Lexi at Northwestern University, or fill out our Request a Tutor form — you can also click the Request a Tutor button at the bottom of this page. We'll follow up within one business day to confirm availability and schedule your first session.