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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Jodi Walder Scott Clyburn Jodi Walder Scott Clyburn

Jodi Walder

Founder & Owner, College Admission Coach
BA, University of California at Irvine
College Counseling Certificate, University of California at Los Angeles

Since 2005, Jodi has helped over 800 students navigate the college admissions process. She belongs to multiple professional associations for college counselors and loves helping students discover their post-high school path.

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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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Portland, Mamie Stevenson Morago Scott Clyburn Portland, Mamie Stevenson Morago Scott Clyburn

Mamie Stevenson Morago

BA, Reed College

With a decade of experience, Mamie guides students in crafting impactful admissions essays. Having graduated with a degree in literature, she brings a love of language and narrative expertise to the coaching process. Drawing from her professional background in copywriting, manuscript editing, and journalism, her goal is to help students identify unique perspectives and hone their story.

Mamie’s Study Tip: “Start with what means the most to you. Using your authentic voice, craft your narrative around genuine character-building experiences and insights to write a compelling, demonstrative essay.”

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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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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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Taylor Meyer, Online Scott Clyburn Taylor Meyer, Online 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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Tomek Buras, Portland Scott Clyburn Tomek Buras, Portland Scott Clyburn

Tomek Buras

BS, University of California at Santa Barbara

With his tenure as a school math teacher, Tomek is able to energize and inspire students from a wide variety of backgrounds. He takes pride in being able to meet them where they are and stoke their academic potential, whether they be students who struggle with academic self-doubt or passionate mathematicians and problem-solvers from an early age.

Tomek’s Study Tip: “Cramming doesn't work! A little bit of daily practice, especially when learning math or foreign languages, is always more effective than a last-minute study session. Plus, you're guaranteed to perform better on a test when rested and relaxed.”

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