Degree
B.S. Electrical and Computer Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University
M.S. Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University

About Juan

“The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.”
–Plutarch

Juan Cortes earned his B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Carnegie Mellon and went on to complete a master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering. His graduate work centered on AI, machine learning, and neural data analysis—fields at the forefront of technology and medicine.

At Hammer Prep, Juan helps students master the SAT and ACT, as well as math (through AP Calculus), Biology, Physics, Spanish, and Computer Science. He works with families both online and in person at our Sorrento Valley office. Before teaching, Juan served as a Patent Examiner, evaluating advanced medical imaging technology. His academic and professional background means he brings real-world expertise into every session.

Families appreciate that Juan connects easily with teenagers while keeping expectations high. He’s as comfortable explaining calculus as he is coaching test-taking strategies—always with patience and clarity.

Outside the classroom, Juan enjoys coding projects, reading, and experimenting in the kitchen (his current challenge: Korean cuisine).