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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Lake Oswego, Alina T Scott Clyburn Lake Oswego, Alina T 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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Alisa C, Portland Scott Clyburn Alisa C, Portland Scott Clyburn

Alisa C.

BS, University of British Columbia

Alisa brings a compassionate and patient approach to tutoring. With extensive experience as a peer mentor and undergraduate teaching assistant, she excels in creating affirming learning environments tailored to neurodiverse students. Alisa’s academic background and dedication to inclusive education make her an invaluable asset to students striving to understand complex mathematical and scientific concepts.

Alisa’s Study Tip: “When in doubt, write it out – on a physical sheet of paper with a pencil! It's remarkable how much clearer things can become that way.”

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Ann P, Portland Scott Clyburn Ann P, Portland Scott Clyburn

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).”

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Lake Oswego, Aster E Scott Clyburn Lake Oswego, Aster E Scott Clyburn

Aster E.

BA, Reed College

Aster was a physics major at Reed and boasts over 3,000 hours of tutoring experience, specializing in SAT/ACT test prep as well as AP Calculus and IB Physics. They bring a deep understanding of test formats and advanced subject material to yield an individualized approach to tutoring sessions. Aster’s teaching philosophy emphasizes clarity, collaboration, and cultivation of a growth mindset to help students succeed in school and beyond.

Aster’s Study Tip: “Create a dedicated review journal for practice problems that challenge you. Write down the problem, your approach, and what you learned from solving it to turn mistakes into lasting insights.”

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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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Ben Lewton, Online Scott Clyburn Ben Lewton, Online Scott Clyburn

Ben Lewton

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!”

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Portland, Chandler G Scott Clyburn Portland, Chandler G Scott Clyburn

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.”

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Cameron G, Lake Oswego Scott Clyburn Cameron G, Lake Oswego Scott Clyburn

Cameron G.

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."

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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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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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Fernando Granizo, Lake Oswego Scott Clyburn Fernando Granizo, Lake Oswego Scott Clyburn

Fernando Granizo

BS/MS, University of California – San Diego

Fernando is a passionate tutor with a strong foundation in STEM, holding degrees in Chemical Engineering. He specializes in breaking down complex concepts into digestible lessons, and has consistently helped students achieve academic success, whether they were struggling with the fundamentals or advancing through rigorous AP courses.

Fernando’s Study Tip: "Approach your math and science classes with equal doses of curiosity and patience. Be prepared to analyze the solution process, not just the final answer."

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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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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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