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!”
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.
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.”
Maria A.
BS, Oregon State University
With a deep understanding of both foundational and advanced mathematical concepts, Maria is skilled at simplifying complex problems and making them accessible to students. She tailors her tutoring approach to meet the unique needs of each student, helping them build confidence and improve their skills. Whether working through fundamental concepts or preparing for more advanced topics, Maria is dedicated to providing clear and patient guidance to support student success.
Maria’s Study Tip: “Break complex problems into smaller steps, and don’t skip showing your work! This not only helps catch mistakes, but also strengthens your understanding of key concepts over time.”
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.”
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!”
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."
Riley H.
BA, University of Oregon
MA, Portland State University
Riley is a seasoned educator with a master’s degree in English and over a decade of experience teaching and tutoring writing, critical reading, and standardized test preparation. Boasting extensive experience coaching SAT, ACT, and SSAT, Riley excels at helping students hone their analytical and time-management skills for success on test day. His patient, tailored approach ensures each student gains confidence and mastery in tackling complex material.
Riley’s Study Tip: “When practicing for standardized tests, simulate the test-day environment as closely as possible. Use timed sections, minimize distractions, and review your mistakes to refine your strategies and improve focus.”
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.”