Get to Know Elena, Academic Coach
Elena Lam is an undergraduate student at the University of Houston majoring in Mathematical Biology and is currently preparing for graduate studies in Pharmacology. With a strong passion for STEM and molecular medicine, she is also actively involved in biology and pharmaceutical research while completing her degree. Elena enjoys helping students develop confidence in subjects that can often feel intimidating and loves seeing them realize they are capable of solving problems independently. Her favorite part of working with students is watching their understanding grow through persistence, curiosity, and encouragement.
Where Elena Makes an Impact
Elena brings extensive experience teaching and tutoring students across a wide range of STEM subjects, from elementary-level concepts to college coursework. Through the teachHOUSTON program, she led advanced 8th-grade math and Algebra classrooms in Houston Independent School District, gaining valuable classroom teaching experience. She has also served as a peer tutor at the University of Houston through Knack Tutoring and worked professionally in a pharmacy setting at Walgreens. As a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), Elena combines real-world healthcare experience with a strong academic foundation. Her expertise includes mathematics, biology, chemistry, and other STEM-focused subjects, allowing her to support students at multiple grade levels.
Did You Know?
Elena plays six musical instruments and considers music her favorite creative outlet outside of academics. While much of her professional and academic life revolves around science and research, she enjoys balancing it with artistic pursuits. She was raised in a family with strong ties to both education and military service and completed military training with the United States Marine Corps during high school. Elena was awarded the Military Order of the World Wars Medal of Merit and graduated as an officer at the rank of First Lieutenant, experiences that helped shape her discipline, leadership, and sense of responsibility.
Favorite Core Value
Elena’s favorite core value is Win as One because she believes meaningful success is built through collaboration and mutual support. Throughout her academic, professional, and leadership experiences, she has learned that growth happens most effectively when people work together toward a common goal. She values environments where individuals share knowledge, encourage one another, and celebrate achievements as a team. For Elena, learning is strongest when students feel supported by the people around them.