PrepNow Tutor - Palmer B.
A research-trained science and math tutor, Palmer holds a BA in physics with a minor in quantum information science from the University of Chicago. During his undergraduate career, he worked as a tutor as well as a researcher in three different scientific labs. Since graduating, he has moved from research toward science communication and education. In addition to tutoring math and physics, he currently works as a freelance science writer.
Palmer started teaching as a peer tutor in high school and tutored professionally throughout college. “My proudest moment as a tutor was when tutoring a small group of pre-med students, working through problems about electrical charge,” Palmer reflects. “While discussing a question around lightning strikes, we veered into a conversation about what specific kind of medicine each student wanted to practice. We bonded through the conversation, and I was able to help a student, who was studying neuroscience, to understand the differences between voltage and current by referencing how each would affect the nervous system.” In math, Palmer has tutored high school and college students in algebra, geometry, pre-calculus, AP Calculus, multivariable calculus, linear algebra, and Math Methods for Physics. In physics, he has tutored IB Physics, introductory physics, and introductory physics and quantum mechanics.
“I believe in a collaborative, student-centered approach, where I talk honestly with a student to figure out where they're at and what kind of help they're hoping for,” Palmer says. “Leveling with each student allows me to tailor my lessons to meet a student's individual needs. I'm dedicated not only to enhancing a student's understanding of math and science concepts but also to fostering a love of science by providing engaging content and real-world examples.”
While at the University of Chicago, Palmer was on the dean’s list for three years and worked on the author outreach committee for Sliced Bread Magazine. In 2023, his presentation was selected as a finalist for best poster presentation. His research internships at Applied Research Laboratories gave him both hands-on experience with the scientific process but also experience explaining and educating others about gun research.
Palmer enjoys quiet recreation and consuming all kinds of art, whether in the form of paintings, books, film, or a well-made video game. In addition to his passion for education, Palmer also loves writing and journalism. He loves listening to science podcasts.
