Peer tutoring · math & science

Everyone deserves that lightbulb moment.

Luminous pairs students with peer tutors in math and science — free, flexible, and run by students who've been exactly where you are.

How it works

Three steps, start to finish.

1. Apply

Tell us what you need help with, or what you can teach, in a short form.

2. Get reviewed

An officer verifies your application before any account becomes active.

3. Meet

In person or over video call — whatever works best for your pair.

What we cover

Math

  • Algebra, Geometry & Advanced Algebra: Concepts and Connections
  • Precalculus — standard and AP
  • Calculus — On Level through AP Calculus BC
  • AP Statistics

Science

  • Biology — On Level, Honors, AP
  • Chemistry — On Level, Honors, AP
  • Physics — On Level, Honors, AP
  • AP Psychology

Our story

It started with Zoom. During my own classes, I began hosting sessions for classmates who were stuck on concepts I'd already worked through — chemistry, precalculus, physics, whatever someone needed that week. Teaching turned out to be its own kind of learning, and watching someone go from confused to confident felt genuinely fulfilling.

That feeling is why Luminous exists — a nonprofit built to bring free peer tutoring in math and science to students across our partner schools.

Meet the team

Students supporting students, one lightbulb moment at a time.

Nandini Krishnamurthy

President & Founder

Hi y’all! I’m Nandini, a student at Lambert High School. I’ve always loved helping peers with physics, chemistry, and precalculus. I used to host Zoom review sessions before tests, and seeing classmates reach a deeper understanding of the material sparked the idea for Luminous. I strive to bring that lightbulb moment to every student here.

Mahathi Selva

Vice President & Co-Founder

Hello! I’m Mahathi, a junior at Lambert High School. I enjoy math and biology, and I hope to pursue a career in health care. I’m motivated by the chance to use my interest in science to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, and I’m excited to keep growing academically while serving my community.

Nia Venetia Mendonca

Executive Officer

Hey everyone! I’m Nia, a high school senior with a strong interest in AP science. I’m especially happy to help with AP Chemistry and to answer questions that make challenging concepts feel more manageable. I want students to leave tutoring sessions feeling clearer, more capable, and more confident.

Vennela Padala

Membership Chair

Hi! I’m Vennela, a junior currently taking AP Calculus. I can tutor AP Statistics, AP Precalculus, and Algebra. My goal is to help students understand the material more clearly and feel confident in their coursework, so they can succeed throughout their academic lives.

Get tutoring

Need a hand in math or science? Tell us about yourself and we'll match you with a peer tutor once your application is reviewed.

At least 6 characters. This is what you'll use to sign in later.

So a parent or guardian is looped in on the match.

Become a tutor

Good at math or science? Share what you can teach — an officer reviews every application before any account goes active.

At least 6 characters. This is what you'll use to sign in later.

Math

Science

Application materials are reviewed separately. A Luminous officer will contact you with instructions after you apply.

Sign in

Don't have an account yet? Apply on Get tutoring or Become a tutor first. Officers: use the temporary password you were given, then reset it here.