Leanna

Education: PhD in Chemistry (UC Davis) and B.S. in Biochemistry (Cal Poly San Luis Obispo)

Area of Expertise: Chemistry

Leanna is a dedicated and engaging tutor with 9 years of experience, committed to helping students build confidence in chemistry. She understands that the subject can be challenging, so she focuses on simplifying complex ideas into clear, manageable steps. Leanna emphasizes mastering core concepts first, then guides students in applying that knowledge through thoughtful problem-solving. By encouraging active participation rather than simply providing answers, she helps students develop the skills they need to succeed independently.

Leanna has a strong background in both teaching and academic achievement. She earned her B.S. in Biochemistry from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, where she led organic chemistry workshops and created practice materials to support student learning. She later completed her Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of California, Davis, while tutoring students in general and organic chemistry. Her experience also includes serving as a visiting assistant professor at Reed College, where she worked closely with students during office hours and one-on-one sessions to strengthen their understanding of complex topics.

Beyond teaching, Leanna is deeply involved in scientific research, with a focus on DNA and RNA and their applications in genomic and transcriptomic editing. Her work has explored innovative base editing techniques aimed at correcting genetic mutations, contributing to advancements in potential therapies. Outside of academics, she enjoys running, hiking with her dog, and baking. Leanna is passionate about supporting not just her students’ academic success, but also their overall well-being, and she takes pride in helping them grow and gain confidence over time.