Boston University freshman studying Molecular Biology and Data Science, HKIS alum with AP 5s in Biology, Psychology, and English. 4-year Stryv tutor who makes STEM and humanities approachable through step-by-step review and real-world applications.
Subjects
- AP Biology
- AP Economics
- AP English Language and Composition
- AP English Literature and Composition
- AP Environmental Science
- AP Physics 1
- AP Psychology
- AP Spanish Language and Culture
- AP Spanish Literature and Culture
- Biology
- English
- Environmental Science
- Mathematics
- Psychology
- SAT Reading and Writing
About me
Laura is a first-year student at Boston University majoring in Cellular, Molecular Biology, and Genetics with a minor in Data Science, bringing six years of experience at HKIS where she excelled across sciences, humanities, and languages. Originally from Lisbon and having lived across three continents, she is passionate about biotechnology, genomics, innovation, fashion, and sustainability, serving as a two-time TEDx speaker and designing clothes for HKIS's charity fashion show. Beyond academics, she is a brother of Kappa Theta Phi technology fraternity, co-produces for the Wandering Minds theatre group, and played varsity volleyball.
Qualifications
Laura earned perfect 5s on AP Biology, Psychology, English Language, English Literature, and Macroeconomics, along with 4s in Chemistry and Microeconomics. Beyond her APs, she achieved a Silver Medal at the International Psychology Olympiad (top 5–20%) and currently maintains a 4.0 GPA at Boston University. In recognition of her academic excellence, she received the James Handrich Grant ($8,000 HKD scholarship) and was named AP Scholar with Distinction.
Experience
Laura has been a Stryv tutor for approximately 4 years, teaching primarily middle and high school students in STEM subjects including Biology and Math, as well as Humanities and essay writing. Throughout this time, she maintained a 2-year sustained client relationship and served as an HKIS Math and Science tutor for 2 years, delivering one-on-one advanced Biology lessons and leading group review sessions of up to 30 students.
Teaching approach
Laura starts sessions by reviewing previously assigned work, spending 15–20 minutes revising mistakes step-by-step before introducing new content in a half-lecture, half-activity format with imagery and multiple explanations. Throughout lessons, she asks regular questions to ensure efficient learning and ends with practice problems and real-world applications for retention. This approach creates an open, relaxed environment where students feel comfortable making mistakes.