Aidan S.
BA, Reed College
MA, University of Chicago
A seasoned SAT and ACT strategist with a perfect GRE score, Aidan empowers students to tackle these pivotal exams with confidence and skill. His background in philosophy enhances his ability to teach with a unique perspective that resonates with students of all backgrounds. Aidan's approach is both systematic and flexible, adapting to the individual needs of his students, whether crafting comprehensive curricula or providing targeted tutoring that transcends traditional methods.
Aidan's Study Tip: "Build your test-taking stamina through simulated exams and refine techniques with personalized feedback to turn pressure into progress on test day."
Ann P.
BA, Carleton College
MFA, Pacific Lutheran University
In everything she does, Ann brings a passion for language. As a former English professor, grant writer, environmental advocate, and creative writer, she's honed an ability to find the right words to move her intended audience. She knows finding your story isn't always easy, but it is possible – and can even be fun! She’s committed to helping students get past the challenge of a blank page and find their unique voice.
Ann’s Study Tip: “The cinematic quality of the stories you tell will draw your reader in. Once you've created a few good ‘scenes,’ then it's time to tell the reader why you gave them that scene. Your analysis is the icing on the cake. Strive for an essay that is 80% showing (scenic) and 20% telling (analytic).”
Casey Y.
BS, Reed College
MS, Portland State University
Casey specializes in science tutoring and SAT/ACT prep, drawing on extensive teaching experience to adapt to each student’s needs with patience and empathy. They build confidence and self-sufficiency by identifying strengths, addressing challenges, and making learning engaging – even sparking a passion for subjects students once disliked!
Casey’s Study Tip: “When mastering science topics, focus on the conceptual framework rather than attempting to memorize facts. Connecting ideas through diagrams or real-world examples also makes info easier to grasp and recall!”
Dani G.
BS, Davidson College
Dani harnesses their passion for puzzles and focused learning in their role as a versatile tutor. With a robust academic background and diverse teaching experiences (incl. a stint in China), Dani brings a wealth of knowledge and adaptable teaching strategies to their students. And as an AP Scholar with Distinction, they excel in higher-level coursework, leveraging their expertise to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for mathematical challenges.
Dani’s Study Tip: "Begin every study session or exam hydrated, rested, and well-fed to optimize your performance. A walk in nature, a good night's sleep, and staying hydrated can remarkably boost your focus and energy levels."
Jacob S.
BA, Reed College
With a degree in physics, Jacob boasts 4 years of tutoring experience in a peer setting. He strives to imbue his students with a deep conceptual fluency and understanding, using his own knowledge of the ACT and SAT to empower students to engage in robust and rigorous practice.
Jacob’s Study Tip: “Don’t just finish problems and move on, but practice with purpose. Reviewing your thinking strengthens metacognition, shown to boost long-term exam performance.”
Jameson B.
BA, University of Montana
MEd, University of Montana
Jameson is a versatile and experienced educator, having coached both kindergarteners on skis and environmental science majors on the Missouri River. His work with diverse learners enables him to tailor his approach to each student’s needs and aspirations. Jameson’s goal is to kindle the sparks of motivation that drive success, improve thinking, and cultivate a passion for learning.
Jameson’s Study Tip: “Take a step back and consider your big-picture goals for a class, test, or semester, then list out key steps needed to meet them (the how) and the core reasons these goals matter (the why). A clear vision and tangible roadmap make all the difference!”
Natalie Q.
MA, Portland State University
BA, University of Oregon
With over 10 years of experience as an educator, Natalie has an extensive background as an executive function and academic coach for high school and college students. She has also tutored writing at every level, from preschool to undergrad. She's gifted at meeting students where they’re at, supporting learning differences, and creating a caring learning experience.
Natalie’s Study Tip: “Break down larger goals into smaller steps and complete those steps one at a time. This will help you avoid burnout and persist through your educational journey.”
Riley H.
BA, University of Oregon
MA, Portland State University
Riley is a seasoned educator with a master’s degree in English and over a decade of experience teaching and tutoring writing, critical reading, and standardized test preparation. Boasting extensive experience coaching SAT, ACT, and SSAT, Riley excels at helping students hone their analytical and time-management skills for success on test day. His patient, tailored approach ensures each student gains confidence and mastery in tackling complex material.
Riley’s Study Tip: “When practicing for standardized tests, simulate the test-day environment as closely as possible. Use timed sections, minimize distractions, and review your mistakes to refine your strategies and improve focus.”
Arek R.
BA, Reed College
Arek specializes in nurturing the academic growth of neurodivergent students and those with learning differences. With a psychology degree and robust experience in diverse teaching settings (incl. chess and unicycling!), Arek brings patience, creativity, and a deep understanding of individual learning needs to each session. His gentle approach ensures that every student feels valued and empowered to succeed.
Arek's Study Tip: "Break down complex problems into visual steps to enhance understanding and retention, making math accessible and less intimidating for all learners."
Chandler G.
BS, University of Cincinatti
MEd, Oregon State University
A dynamic educator with over a decade of experience, Chandler specializes in helping students master science concepts and develop effective study skills. With a background in executive function coaching for neurodiverse learners, Chandler combines a passion for STEM with personalized strategies to help students stay organized, focused, and engaged.
Chandler’s Study Tip: "Break down large tasks into manageable pieces and prioritize them by deadlines or difficulty. Use a timer to focus deeply for short bursts, followed by a quick break to refresh and reset.”
Chris Pratt
BS, University of Florida
With over a decade of experience tutoring and a wide range of mathematics coursework under his belt, Chris prides himself in helping students bridge the gap between rote memorization and authentic mastery. He believes that to be most effective, instruction must not only unpack the topic at hand but also the larger conceptual framework that undergirds it. Using a tailored approach unique to each student, Chris aims to build complex connections and a deep understanding of every subject.
Chris’s Study Tip: “Practice a little bit every day, even if it's just opening your book and reading one page. A single step is a move in the right direction – with enough steps, you'll complete any journey.”
Daniel Wallace
BA/BS, University of California - Davis
PhD, Portland State University (in-progress)
Daniel is driven to help individuals develop both their character and their cognition through careful engagement with math. He provides a supportive environment where students can attempt new ways of thinking, discover strength in self-reflection, and apply their skills to novel problems. Because even the most gifted students struggle at some point in advanced coursework, Daniel believes what matters is determination to be the best possible version of oneself.
Daniel’s Study Tip: “For word problems, write down all the relevant information given in a clearer, more concise form. This makes it easier to discern relationships between concepts and determine how to use what you know to answer the question."
Grace Van Kirk
BS, California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo
Centering empathy and strong self-literacy at the core of her work, Grace strives to broaden her understanding of diverse viewpoints every day. Her drive for promoting accessible and holistic learning experiences propelled her into tutoring and outdoor education – not to mention a stint in the Peace Corps in Guatemala. Grace sees the value in promoting creativity and curiosity as part of the path towards a more successful, joyful, and balanced life.
Grace’s Study Tip: “Observe yourself with curiosity and try your best to withhold judgement. Traits and even thoughts that seem initially negative can, with the right perspective, become tools at your disposal.”
Gwen Tait
BA, Reed College
Gwen’s study of languages (Latin, Greek, Chinese, and counting!) taught them to synthesize new information, recognize patterns, and think critically – skills they now share with students. From tutoring in Reed’s Office of Academic Support to instructing archery at a summer camp, they are dedicated to developing inherent strengths and teaching new skills. Gwen loves to inspire confidence and resilience in all students, especially those who identify as shy or lacking confidence.
Gwen’s Study Tip: “Write it out by hand! The physical act of writing every step in a problem or every word you want to memorize will help you slow down, better enabling you to encode the information.”