Our staff is built to teach each student individually, to develop the skills they need to thrive in mathematics, and to foster a love of learning.

Shadnaz Bordbar

Instructor

Shadnaz is a student at UCLA with plans to attend medical school. Growing up with a high school math teacher as a mother, she developed a love for math and its connection to the real world. She believes math becomes much easier when it’s enjoyable. 

At Mathnasium, Shadnaz enjoys sharing her enthusiasm with students and helping them build confidence through fun, engaging instruction. Outside the center, she enjoys exploring new places and creating music on the piano. 

Fiona Kurniawan

Instructor

Fiona is a UC Berkeley student studying mathematics and chemistry. Inspired by her mother and teachers, she developed a strong appreciation for math and believes that understanding the fundamentals makes it both accessible and enjoyable. 

She brings determination and a love of learning to Mathnasium, where she helps students develop confidence and curiosity. In her spare time, Fiona enjoys literature, music, and using creative strategies to make math come alive for each student she works with. 

Daniela Kaylee Arif

Instructor

Daniela is studying neuroscience at Diablo Valley College and plans to transfer to a UC in the near future. She credits inspiring teachers for helping her build a strong math foundation and now enjoys giving back by helping others improve their math skills. 

At Mathnasium, Daniela is passionate about supporting students in a way that’s clear, fun, and impactful. Outside of academics, she enjoys relaxing with Netflix and believes learning is most meaningful when students feel supported and encouraged. 

Nika Panbehchi

Instructor

Nika is a UC Berkeley student majoring in genetics with plans to pursue a career in dentistry. She enjoys the problem-solving nature of math and takes pride in helping students feel more confident in their abilities. 

At Mathnasium, Nika creates an engaging learning environment that makes math approachable and enjoyable. She is passionate about connecting with students through creative instruction. In her free time, she enjoys drawing, playing volleyball, cooking, and exploring artistic hobbies. 

Michael Deon Scott

Center Director Assistant


Michael is currently a student at San Francisco State University and is pursuing a B.S degree in Applied Mathematics. He has extensive experience teaching various math-based subjects with different age groups. When teaching, he applies his passion and enthusiasm for math to keep students interested in the subject. Michael aspires to become a college professor and do research on algorithm design and complex analysis. When not immersed in the realm of mathematics, Michael enjoys his free time acrylic painting, reading sci-fi and fantasy novels, and playing virtual reality games.


Negar Jalili

Instructor

Negar is a graduate student in Business Analytics with a strong foundation in data science and a lifelong passion for teaching. She discovered her love of math at a young age and has since enjoyed tutoring students of all ages. Negar especially loves helping younger students build confidence and discover the joy of learning math. She believes that with the right support, every student can succeed. Outside of Mathnasium, Negar enjoys art, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Our Mathnasium Mission

Teach children math so they understand it, master it, and love it. Math can change their lives, and they can change the world.

Quote Quote
What I love about Mathnasium is the ability to teach problem-solving skills and make math make sense, while also making a student smile.
Amber W., Mathnasium Instructor

Schedule Your Math Skills Assessment Today

Student using math cubes to solve fractions
Student working with a math tutor at a local math learning center

Want to join the Mathnasium team?

Are you interested in changing lives through math? We're looking for outstanding individuals with a high level of commitment who are passionate about teaching math. Find out if there's a Mathnasium position that's just right for you!

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