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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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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Riley H, Portland Scott Clyburn Riley H, Portland Scott Clyburn

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.”

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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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