John

John

Hi I’m John! I have 13 years experience working with youth and am passionate about helping students achieve their maximum learning potential, whether for test prep like the SAT or ACT, in a specific subject such as math, science, reading, or writing, or while navigating the college admissions process.

I graduated with a PhD in civil engineering from Stanford and a BS in mechanical engineering from Harvard. In college I appreciated having professors break down complex material into simple, easy-to-follow steps. I take this approach with my students by sectioning math problems, reading passages, or essays into discrete steps or paragraphs then tackling each section one at a time. I also believe organization is key to top performance, and so I impart to my students systematic problem-solving approaches that help them feel empowered, encouraged, and in control of their learning process.

I have tutored professionally since 2005 in high school math and English; SAT and ACT math, reading, and writing; science courses; college essay writing including transfer admission; and the college admissions process. My students have seen considerable success gaining admission to their top college choices, including Harvard, Stanford, and UCLA.

As far as my test scores, I achieved an 800 on the SAT math, a 740 on the SAT verbal, a perfect 800 on the GRE verbal (170 on the revised scale), and a 780 on the GRE math (170 on the revised scale). I also took several AP tests in high school including AP Chemistry (5), AP Calculus BC (5), and AP Physics (5).

Additionally I have interviewed for Harvard admissions for the past 13 years, so I understand inside strategies that can help students stand out within very competitive applicant pools. I am passionate about helping youth succeed inside and outside the classroom, am friendly, accommodating, and responsive, and I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals!