Aidan S, Portland Scott Clyburn Aidan S, Portland Scott Clyburn

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."

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Alina Tudorica, Lake Oswego Scott Clyburn Alina Tudorica, Lake Oswego Scott Clyburn

Alina T.

BA/PhD, University of Bucharest
PhD, State University of New York - Stony Brook

Alina combines her deep knowledge of the sciences with her extensive experience in education to offer top-notch test preparation and subject tutoring. With her unique background in both research and instruction, she can translate complex concepts into clear, test-ready knowledge. Alina’s methodical and patient approach builds a strong foundation, empowering them to approach tests like the SAT and ACT with confidence and poise.

Alina’s Study Tip: “Regularly practice under real test conditions and focus on your weakest areas. This targeted approach builds skills and confidence for test day.”

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Arek R, Portland Scott Clyburn Arek R, Portland Scott Clyburn

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."

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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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Dani G, Portland Scott Clyburn Dani G, Portland Scott Clyburn

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."

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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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Holton Huntington, Online Scott Clyburn Holton Huntington, Online Scott Clyburn

Holton Huntington

BA, Middlebury College

Holton’s love of learning runs deep, having worked with students in a traditional classroom, online via Zoom, and as a rock climbing coach. This range in both format and role has helped him empathize with students, identify areas for growth, and guide them toward continuous improvement. Holton’s diverse academic background and longevity of teaching experience are well suited to helping students thrive in a variety of academic areas.

Holton’s Study Tip: “Get the sleep your body needs! All those hours you spent preparing will be wasted if you’re too tired to function once the official test is in front of you.”

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Jadon S, Lake Oswego Scott Clyburn Jadon S, Lake Oswego Scott Clyburn

Jadon S.

BS, University of Oregon

Jadon brings both extensive experience and a record of exceptional academic achievement to test prep, boasting near-perfect scores on PSAT, ACT, and GRE. With degrees in mathematics and economics, he combines rigorous analytical skills with a thorough understanding of test-taking strategies. Jadon brings warmth, patience, and a passion for the material to his tutoring sessions, ensuring that each student feels supported and motivated to exceed even their highest expectations.

Study Tip: “On the verbal portions of standardized exams, aim to not only understand why the correct answer is correct, but also why the other options are incorrect.”

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Jameson B, Portland Scott Clyburn Jameson B, Portland Scott Clyburn

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!”

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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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Lake Oswego, Lee Ngo Scott Clyburn Lake Oswego, Lee Ngo Scott Clyburn

Lee Ngo

BA, Yale University
MA, University of California - Irvine

Lee is a native Oregonian with a dynamic background spanning academia, technology, and media. As a lifelong learner, Lee is dedicated to projects that uplift historically excluded communities. His relatable approach integrates practical skills with pop culture (from Star Trek to Marvel), preparing students for standardized tests and broader academic challenges with creativity and critical thinking.

Lee’s Study Tip: "Embrace a holistic approach to test prep: integrate test material with your interests to make learning more enjoyable and memorable – this fusion enhances understanding and retention.”

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Ona Underwood, Lake Oswego Scott Clyburn Ona Underwood, Lake Oswego Scott Clyburn

Ona Underwood

BA, Princeton University

An Ivy League graduate with over eight years of tutoring and teaching experience – including five years specifically tutoring for the SAT – Ona is passionate about working with young people to build the confidence and skills required to accomplish their goals. She uses curiosity and creativity to meet students where they’re at and adapt to their unique learning styles.

Ona’s Study Tip: “When you're not sure how to approach a challenging problem, start by identifying what you do know. You might be surprised at how far you can get when you believe in yourself and troubleshoot with the tools at hand!”

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Patrick M, Portland Scott Clyburn Patrick M, Portland Scott Clyburn

Patrick M.

BA, California State University - Sacramento

A credentialed educator with extensive experience teaching AP subjects in the classroom and leading speech and debate teams, Patrick specializes in test preparation. His innovative teaching methods and commitment to academic excellence have consistently fostered high achievement, making him a trusted mentor to scores of high-performing students.

Patrick’s Study Tip: "To excel in AP English FRQs, practice creating focused thesis statements and outlines – these are essential for structuring compelling arguments and achieving sophistication in your essays."

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