From Scratch blocks in elementary school to Python projects in high school. Personalized 1-on-1 tutoring that meets students exactly where they are.
Hi, I'm Alex. I'm a data engineer at FINRA and a University of Maryland Computer Science graduate. I work with real-world code every day, the kind that powers financial markets.
Programming did not come easy to me at first. I struggled with it early on and spent a lot of time feeling lost before things started to click. That experience taught me exactly where students get stuck and why, and it's what makes me a better teacher. I've been through all of it, so I know how to explain it in a way that actually makes sense.
I work with students at every level, from elementary schoolers just discovering what a program is, to high schoolers working through their first real projects. Whatever language their class requires, whether that's Python, Java, or something else, I can help. No pressure, no jargon. Just patient, clear explanations from someone who remembers what it's like to not understand any of this.
Current Role
Data Engineer
FINRA
Education
B.S. Computer Science
University of Maryland, College Park
Languages Taught
Teaches
Elementary through High School
Each track is built around the student's age and skill level, so lessons are always relevant, engaging, and actually useful.
Track 1
Grades K-5, Ages 5-11
Young learners explore the fundamentals of computational thinking before they ever see a line of text-based code. Using Scratch, MIT's visual programming language, students drag-and-drop blocks to bring stories, animations, and simple games to life. They build real programming logic without the intimidation of a keyboard-first approach.
The goal at this stage isn't syntax; it's sparking curiosity. We focus on sequences, loops, conditions, and events in a way that feels like play.
Track 2
Grades 6-8, Ages 11-14
The bridge between visual blocks and real code. Middle schoolers start writing actual Python while building on the logic they already understand. We transition from "what does this block do?" to "how do I write that myself?"
Sessions focus on Python basics with small, satisfying projects. Quizzes, number guessing games, and simple scripts that students can actually run, so they always leave with something that works.
Track 3
Grades 9-12, Ages 14-18
High schoolers go deep. We build a real Python foundation from the ground up, covering the core concepts you'd see in any college CS course, and work toward meaningful capstone projects that put all those skills together.
One standout project in this track: Who Replaced the Farmer? A game that challenges students to think about automation, decision-making, and logic through an interactive Python program. It's a great way to see how everything clicks.
I also help with class assignments and homework, prep students for AP Computer Science A and Principles, and build toward first technical interviews.
University of Maryland
Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
College Park, MD
Relevant Coursework
Data Engineer at FINRA
Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. Building data pipelines that power financial market oversight.
Real-World Tech Stack
Python, SQL, cloud platforms, and data engineering tools used daily in production.
Industry Perspective
I teach the skills that actually matter in the job market, not just textbook theory.
Clear Communicator
I focus on breaking down complex ideas so they click, regardless of age or background.
Hourly Rate · One-on-One Sessions
/hour
Sessions are fully tailored to your student's level, whether they are a complete beginner working through their first program or a high schooler preparing for a technical interview.
Reach out to discuss where your student is and what you want them to achieve. The first session is a no-pressure intro to make sure we are a good fit.
Not sure which track is right for your child? Send me a message with their grade level and a bit about them. I will respond within 24 hours and we can figure out the best path forward together.