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."

BS, University of Cincinnati

Ben's teaching style emphasizes grounding abstract subjects through students' everyday experiences. Holding degrees in Physics and Astrophysics, his fascination with cutting-edge science hasn't kept him from staying down to earth. Ben values math for its ability to connect diverse topics, and he believes these connections enable students to interpret this fascinating “language of the universe” for themselves.

Ben’s Study Tip: “Try to find math in everyday life, whether it's geometry in your furniture or the kinetic friction under your feet. Learning needs context - combine your lessons with something you can see, hear, or feel!”

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.”

BA, Sarah Lawrence College
MFA, Stony Brook University

Cameron is a distinguished college essay tutor and study skills coach with a deep-seated passion for literature and writing. With extensive experience both as a TA for undergraduate writing courses and a private tutor, Cameron excels in nurturing students' executive functioning skills and guiding them through the nuances of crafting compelling essays. He helps them articulate their thoughts with clarity and persuasive power, empowering them to excel in school assignments, standardized tests, and beyond.

Cameron's Study Tip: "An essay is a window into your thought process. Structure your ideas clearly, and refine your voice through deliberate revision to make a lasting impression."

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.”

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."

JD & MM, Willamette University BA, University of Washington

Dave Harris is the owner of Dog Star Prep, LLC™, a college and career readiness firm based in picturesque Las Cruces, New Mexico. He has over 30 years of experience in higher education having served as a college president, business dean, MBA director at the University of Utah, and an award-winning faculty member. Dave also lived in Japan for over 16 years and served as an executive at Itochu Corporation and Murata, two leading Japanese companies. His one-of-a-kind college and career readiness program, Become the Dog Star, shows students how to differentiate themselves to stand out to prospective employers and higher education institutions. Dave has a passion for enhancing student success.

Independent Educational Consultant
BA, Indiana University
MA, University of Colorado - Boulder
Certificate in College Counseling, University of California - Los Angeles

Eighteen years of experience as a public high school counselor has enabled Debra to develop a solid understanding of the everyday life of teens. She knows how busy students and their parents are and how confusing this complex college-related stuff can be. With her broad, student-focused background, Debra skillfully guides students in authentic essay writing and discovering colleges they are excited about. Her goal is to help students gain confidence, reduce stress, and have some fun along the way!

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.”

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.”

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.”