
Offers online services
About
Hello, my name is Melina Mirza! I’m a Biological Sciences alumna from the University of Cincinnati, and I’ve been working as a microbiologist for the past 2.5 years. I have a strong understanding of both biology and chemistry, and as an aspiring professor, I love sharing what I know. Since I’m just getting started with tutoring, I currently feel most confident tutoring biology up through college-level general education courses, and chemistry and anatomy up to the high school level. If you’re interested in support for a course outside that range, feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to review the material and see if I’m the right fit!
Highlights
1 employee
5 years in business
Serves Cincinnati , OH
Offers online services
Payment methods
Venmo, Apple Pay, Zelle
Specialties
Grade level
Pre-kindergarten, Elementary school, Middle school, High school, College / graduate school, Adult learner
Subject
Chemistry, Biology, Anatomy, Earth science
Reviews
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anja S.
Melina is AMAZING! I previously worked Melina at a microbiology lab in Cincinnati. She has a great understanding of testing dynamics, laboratory work, and training. Melina was a great resource to go to when you need to understand methodologies as she is able to break down the processes step-by-step. Not only is she great at understand procedures, she’s has a curious, fun, and adventurous personality. She always makes any topic interesting and exciting. Even under stress, she has a positive outlook. I also have never met a person so devoted to curiosity and learning the unknown!
July 28, 2025
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molly O.
this is my older cousin and she was a great guide and tutor during my time in college! very good at breaking concepts down in a digestible way!
July 27, 2025
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ronan M.
This is my sister and I would not have made it through all of my high school biology classes without her. I am not a science student so my biology classes were always a struggle but she helped me learn the material and actually retain it. I got a 4 on my AP biology exam due to her. She was very patient with all of my questions as well. Great tutor!
July 27, 2025
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When I begin working with a new student, my plan is to first get a sense of their comfort level with the material and what specific topics they’d like to focus on. I ask that students share any areas of concern or upcoming assignments ahead of time so I can review the content and come prepared with a personalized approach. Overall, I just want to make sure they feel comfortable, supported, and like they’re really getting it as we go—since these topics tend to build on each other, it’s so important to have a solid understanding before moving on.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Cincinnati and have been working as a microbiologist for the past 2.5 years, where I also helped train new team members in microbiological and biochemical methodology and instrumentation. In addition to my biology coursework, I also completed General Chemistry I and II as well as Organic Chemistry I and II, giving me a strong foundation in both biology and chemistry. I was homeschooled up until high school, so I learned early on how to teach myself complex topics—which has made me especially good at breaking down the steps needed to understand a subject and succeed in a course. While I’m new to formal tutoring, I’ve always enjoyed helping my peers learn science in a way that feels clear, approachable, and doable.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Starting off at $50 an hour as I am new to formal tutoring.
How did you get started teaching?
I got started teaching informally—helping classmates when I understood something they were struggling with, and later explaining science topics to younger siblings, their friends, cousins, and others in my life. Sometimes it was just so they could understand what I was excited about, whether it was an academic concept or a milestone at work. I’m an aspiring research professor and plan to return to grad school in the next few years. I’d love to be the kind of TA and professor who makes students feel excited and confident in what they’re learning. Tutoring is a great way for me to start building those skills now, outside of a formal academic program.
What types of students have you worked with?
I’ve worked with peers, younger students, and family members in informal settings, and I’ve also helped train new coworkers in a professional laboratory setting.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Back in June, I earned my Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and Underwater Photography scuba certifications in Hawaii. I love the ocean and want to pursue research in aquatic biology, so seeing the subjects of my future work up close and in the wild is one of my favorite things to do.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Science can be challenging—even for students who genuinely enjoy it. If you're looking for a tutor, you likely already know that. While there are many incredibly intelligent teachers and professors out there, subject expertise doesn’t always translate into effective education. Based on my own academic experience—and having worked with tutors throughout high school and college—I’ve found that the most impactful teachers aren’t necessarily the ones with the most impressive resumes or encyclopedic knowledge. The best tutors are the ones who prioritize understanding their students and creating learning plans tailored to how they think and process information.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Before talking to a teacher about your needs, take some time to reflect on why a certain subject or topic feels difficult. Is it clashing with the way your brain naturally solves problems? Does it lack the curiosity or spark that keeps you engaged in other subjects? If you can pinpoint what’s not clicking—and what usually does—we can adjust your study plan to match how your brain actually works. You don’t need to change yourself to learn something new. You just need the right approach.
Services offered
Science