We had the good fortune of connecting with Zach Neeley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zach, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
I think the tutoring industry is underappreciated in terms of the variety of subjects that are “tutorable.” I think many people look at tutoring and they think that if they don’t need help specifically in math, English, or test prep (which, naturally, are the subjects where students request the most help with from private tutors), then they won’t benefit from tutoring. Many people would be surprised to know that you can receive help in just about any subject. You name it — someone probably tutors it. Standardized tests, AP subjects, instruments, languages, life skills…the list goes on.

My specific niche is political science, which is what I majored in college. Despite being labelled as an “easy” science (along with other social sciences), it can be a tough subject to navigate for many students, regardless of major. I’ve seen both majors and non-majors struggle with their classes, and I’m grateful they reached out to me for help.

The other thing that ties in very closely is that there is still a stigma around students receiving additional academic support outside of their schools. Not of all my students were eager to receive support, and I don’t think that was because they were forced into tutoring. I think it’s because they felt embarrassed or dumb (or both) that they had to come see me for help, but personally, I see students seeking help as a sign of strength. Recognizing that there’s a problem with the subject material on the student’s part is the first step to solving that problem. There is nothing wrong with receiving extra help on a subject. Even if it makes you feel dumb, I guarantee you won’t feel that way after you’re finished with your tutoring sessions! 

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I started Atlas Tutoring with a simple vision: helping students to not only succeed in their academic career, but also build long-term skills that will serve them for the rest of their lives. Our motto at Atlas aptly describes this mission: “building confidence, fostering success.”

Having worked for other tutoring companies, I know what works and what does not. I personally believe that students should see the broader importance/context of what they are learning, even if it’s something as benign as English grammar. I also believe that it is important for students to feel comfortable and to feel that they can trust their tutor, that their tutor is a subject matter expert and that they feel safe and included. I want Atlas to be a place where students find learning fun, engaging, and stimulating, regardless of the subject matter or the student’s background and experience. The hiring process at Atlas reflects these points: hiring subject-matter experts who have a strong passion and love for tutoring students from all backgrounds.

Needless to say, I am excited to continue building Atlas Tutoring!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a bit of a nature guy, so I always recommend checking out Houston’s parks. I’m a Sugar Land resident, so I recommend checking out the parks in Telfair. In Houston proper, Memorial Park gets my endorsement.

I’m also a bit of a history nerd–I minored in History in college–so I’m a sucker for museums. The Houston Museum of Natural Science automatically makes the list for me.

Lastly, for a cool place to hang out, I recommend my favorite lounge: Z on 23. You can enjoy a nice cocktail while getting a breathtaking view of downtown Houston!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I’d like to give a shoutout to my family–my mom, my dad, and my sister. They have been instrumental in guiding me throughout the process of starting and maintaining a business. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their advice!

I would also like to send some thanks to my alma mater, Trinity University. Specifically, I want to thank the Political Science Department for giving me the skills and knowledge to work with undergraduate and graduate political science students from across the country and the world. The department has amazing professors and an excellent curriculum, which definitely prepared me for working with all kinds of students and subject matters.

Website: www.atlastutoring.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atlas__tutoring/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090206264626

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@atlastutoring

Image Credits
Photo of me in a suit: LaFawn Sherell Photography

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