Ann Powers, Portland Scott Clyburn Ann Powers, Portland Scott Clyburn

Ann Powers

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).”

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Chris Pratt, Portland Scott Clyburn Chris Pratt, Portland Scott Clyburn

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.”

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Daniel Wallace, Portland Scott Clyburn Daniel Wallace, Portland Scott Clyburn

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."

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Portland, Dani Goldstein Scott Clyburn Portland, Dani Goldstein Scott Clyburn

Dani Goldstein

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."

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Grace Van Kirk, Portland Scott Clyburn Grace Van Kirk, Portland Scott Clyburn

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.”

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Gwen Tait, Portland Scott Clyburn Gwen Tait, Portland Scott Clyburn

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.”

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Jameson Boslough, Portland Scott Clyburn Jameson Boslough, Portland Scott Clyburn

Jameson Boslough

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!”

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Jon Richards, Portland Scott Clyburn Jon Richards, Portland Scott Clyburn

Jon Richards

BS/BA, Metropolitan State University of Denver

Jon's affinities for math, science, language, and test strategy enable him to offer comprehensive guidance across a variety of subjects. By emphasizing the larger conceptual framework of each subject, he ensures that students grasp more than just facts – they develop the critical thinking skills necessary to connect and apply complex ideas and grow their ability to become autonomous learners.

Jon’s Study Tip: “Enhance test performance with active recall: rather than consulting your notes while solving a practice problem, try to retrieve key concepts from memory first. Even if your recall is inaccurate or partial, you're reinforcing your understanding and memory reserves for test day.”

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Judy Lee, Portland Scott Clyburn Judy Lee, Portland Scott Clyburn

Judy Lee

BA, Occidental College
MA, New School for Social Research

A National Merit Scholar and proud Lincoln High School alumna, Judy brings a unique and research-driven approach to SAT and ACT test preparation. With a degree in Cognitive Psychology and a research collaboration with the Harvard Music Lab, Judy understands the science behind learning and test-taking. Her tailored and evidence-based tutoring methods don't just prepare students for tests – they empower them with lifelong cognitive skills.

Judy’s Study Tip: “Approach each question type repeatedly and consistently until you achieve mastery. Remember: slow is steady, and steady is fast.”

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Matt Evans Chelf, Portland Annie Gerway Matt Evans Chelf, Portland Annie Gerway

Matt Evans Chelf

BA, Shepherd University
MA, Lehigh University

A community college teacher and tutor with a background in writing, research, and history, Matt has been a full-time educator for over seven years. He has a strong background in the humanities and cherishes getting to know people from all walks of life. He believes an open ear and open mind will bring out the best in students. He specializes in study skills, creative approaches to academic writing, and empowering student success.

Matt’s Study Tip: “While writing, try to not worry about any other voice than your own. Let the words flow. Discover. Explore. Have fun. Make a word mess. We can clean up any first draft, making the prose shine.”

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Nina Brim, Portland Scott Clyburn Nina Brim, Portland Scott Clyburn

Nina Brim

BA, Macalester College

Bringing a Bachelor's in Mathematics and over 5 years of tutoring experience, Nina is eager to share her love of math with students. Nina strives to make math a bit less daunting by cultivating a comfortable environment where students can learn, challenge themselves, and have fun solving problems. In addition to private tutoring, Nina is engaged in enriching minds in the math department at Portland Community College.

Nina’s Study Tip: “A lot of success in math comes from understanding how to use the tools in your toolkit. Before working on a problems in a specific area, it's helpful to review key concepts and formulas so that you're ready to apply them.”

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Taylor Meyer, Portland Scott Clyburn Taylor Meyer, Portland Scott Clyburn

Taylor Meyer

BS/BS, Oregon State University

An accomplished educator with dual degrees in Mathematics and Education and a teaching certificate with endorsements in Advanced Mathematics, Taylor boasts a rich background in teaching diverse mathematical concepts. With three years of full-time teaching experience and an additional year and a half as a substitute teacher, Taylor has demonstrated versatility and adaptability both in the classroom and in one-on-one settings. She loves helping students find tricks and tools to help make math accessible.

Taylor's Study Tip: "Make a summary sheet for upcoming tests or quizzes, and include important definitions, theorems, equations, or rules. Writing the important information down multiple times will help with retention and muscle memory.”

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