Allan graduated from Cornell University with Cum Laude honors in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering with a concentration in Energy and Economics. After completing his bachelor's degree, he received a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Allan founded an admissions consulting program as the President of a national honor society at Cornell University. He also acted as an admissions mentor at a local high school. As an admissions ambassador, Allan provided feedback to the admissions board on the potential candidate's fit with the school. With over ten years of experience as an academic counselor, he has helped his students gain admission to Cornell University, the University of Chicago, Carnegie Mellon University, and the University of Texas, among many others.
As a first-generation college student, Allan has first-hand experience with how challenging and confusing the admission process can be. This fuels his passion for supporting and guiding his students through the application process. As a coach, he takes a personalized approach–highlighting each applicant's strengths and individuality. He is adaptable and flexible when it comes to what his students need, regardless of what stage in the application process they're in. Allan excels in helping his students develop a robust applicant profile that speaks to what admissions officers are looking for in an ideal candidate beyond test scores and grades. He helps his students turn their shortcomings into strengths, allowing them to shine through.
With his Quad students, Allan breaks down the application process into more manageable steps. He helps his students understand the rationale behind each aspect of their application–specifically, why the colleges ask specific questions and what they want to learn about the students. This, in turn, gives his students the opportunity to build a more meaningful and intentional application. Through coaching prospective college students, Allan hopes to pass on his knowledge and experience to ensure that his students can more easily manage the college application process. He finds great joy in seeing his students' and their families' happy faces and tears when they receive acceptance letters from their dream school. Allan ensures that his students feel confident in their application and works hard to get each of his students to that state of mind and having fun along the way.
When Allan isn't coaching, he mentors high school students and young professionals on career and professional development. He also enjoys playing competitive badminton–and winning!
Allan's Pro Tip?
Students often think they need the perfect resume and breadth of experience to be a competitive candidate. While having these experiences under your belt can be an asset, you can always find strength in your application through your weaknesses and shortcomings, making you much more resilient and competitive throughout the application process.
Anna earned a BS from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and completed an MS and PhD at the University of California, San Diego, earning multiple research awards, a training grant, and a fellowship during her studies. Anna served as an MIT admissions interviewer for 15 years, evaluating prospective students from across the United States.
As the Area Representative for Oklahoma, Anna coordinated the training and assignment of MIT alumni interviewers for applicants from the state and surrounding areas. Additionally, she acted as a Graduate Student Representative for the Cognitive Science PhD program at UC San Diego, where she supported prospective students, welcomed incoming cohorts, and assisted in organizing graduate interview days.
Anna has applied her work in neuroscience to education policy, collaborating with researchers at prestigious universities including MIT, Harvard, Boston University, UC San Diego, UC Irvine, the University of Chicago, and Columbia University. As an active volunteer with the MIT Alumni Association for over a decade, Anna stays deeply connected to evolving undergraduate admissions expectations and the broader university culture. Additionally, her participation in various departmental and administrative committees at several institutions has further enriched her understanding of the unique identities and cultures of different universities, which allows her to help students build school lists that truly cater to their needs. She also advocates for making and keeping Boston-area universities more welcoming to non-traditional students and ensuring that higher education is accessible and affordable to all.
Anna is dedicated to helping learners with traditional and non-traditional educational paths confidently present their authentic selves throughout the admissions process. She believes a great college coach is both a cheerleader and a strategic guide.
As a coach, Anna’s greatest strengths lie in her ability to combine deep academic insight with practical admissions experience. She excels at helping students authentically present their unique stories, guiding them through complex application processes with clarity and encouragement. Anna takes personal stories very seriously, recognizing that discussing values, life experiences, and other deeply personal topics in admissions interviews can be challenging. She strives to create a safe and supportive space for all personal identities and cultures. Her extensive knowledge of university cultures and admissions expectations allows her to tailor advice to each student’s individual goals and circumstances, ensuring they find the best fit academically, socially, and culturally.
In her spare time, Anna enjoys advocating for the disability, mental health, military veteran/family, and neurodiversity communities through peer support and mental health coaching, engaging in volunteer work, participating in Toastmasters public speaking and speech competitions, playing tabletop role-playing games, and cooking (especially baking bread).
Anna’s Pro Tip?
There is no single formula for admission to elite universities. When institutions say they want to see the “real” student, they mean it! Authenticity is the key to standing out among tens of thousands of applicants.
Anthony has a Bachelor’s degree in Classical Studies from the University of Chicago. He also has earned a Master’s Degree and a Ph.D. in Classical Archaeology from Harvard University. While at Harvard, Anthony served as Assistant Director of Undergraduate Studies. He interviewed prospective students interested in majoring in Classics and the humanities and wrote letters of evaluation for the admissions committee. Professionally, Anthony has over ten years of experience as an educator.
Anthony’s passion for coaching stems from his drive to ensure that deserving students get access to quality education, regardless of their background. Anthony knows how valuable guidance during the college admissions process can be, especially for those with limited means or those who lack access to formal guidance. He strives to do everything in his power to help students access quality education and unlock their full potential.
When it comes to coaching, Anthony’s greatest strength is his ability to holistically approach students as human beings, identifying their premier qualities derived from every facet of their lives that have contributed to their growth and development.
When Anthony isn’t coaching students, he enjoys woodworking, especially the notion of creating sophisticated objects from raw materials.
Ashrita holds a Bachelor’s degree from Boston College and a Master’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and has years of experience as a career coach, working with hundreds of people to realize their goals. She also has extensive admissions experience, including serving as an interviewer for the admissions team at Boston College and UMass Amherst. Students Ashrita has coached have been accepted into several top-tier schools, including Harvard, Brown, UCLA, Yale, Cornell, and others.
Her time on the admissions team at Boston College and UMass taught Ashrita valuable lessons about the college application process and the importance of a personalized action plan to stand out. Ashrita is passionate about coaching college applicants because she knows firsthand, as a first-generation student, how overwhelming and anxiety-inducing the college application process can be—especially while balancing academics and extracurriculars. Grateful for the mentors and resources that guided her own journey, she is driven by a strong desire to pay it forward. Ashrita believes that every student, regardless of background, deserves equal access to education and opportunities. Through her coaching, she aims to demystify the application process, offer personalized guidance, and empower students to believe in their potential.
Ashrita’s greatest strengths as a coach lie in her deep empathy and genuine understanding of the challenges students face, especially those navigating unfamiliar paths for the first time. Knowing the value of feeling truly seen, heard, and supported, she creates a welcoming space where students feel comfortable sharing their dreams, fears, and questions. Ashrita pairs this empathy with a structured, step-by-step approach that simplifies the application process while honoring each student's individuality. She aims to help students gain confidence and clarity, set ambitious goals, and achieve them.
Ashrita’s dedication is centered on helping students showcase their authentic selves by encouraging them to highlight their unique strengths and passions. She balances a supportive environment with a sense of accountability, offering clear action steps and guidance to keep students focused and reduce overwhelm. Ashrita ensures that students craft applications that not only impress admissions committees but also truly represent who they are. Her approach empowers students to feel not just prepared but genuinely excited about their journey, confident that they are equipped to succeed on their own terms.
Moreover, Ashrita’s coaching extends far beyond college preparation. She believes the skills she helps students develop are valuable throughout all stages of their careers—whether they’re navigating professional development, overcoming personal challenges, or exploring their sense of purpose. From the start of the application process, she focuses on building skills that will serve students well beyond graduation. Her goal is to help students lay a strong foundation for both their college journey and their future. By working together, Ashrita ensures that students feel confident, authentic, and fully prepared to succeed in whatever comes next.
In her spare time, Ashrita loves getting lost in a good book, exploring different worlds and ideas. She also likes to hike with her husband and dog, enjoying the beauty of nature and the outdoors. Bodybuilding is another passion of hers, which helps her stay strong and focused, while travel allows her to experience new cultures and broaden her horizons.
Ashrita’s Pro Tip?
Finding your voice and showcasing your authentic self goes beyond your resume and achievements. Think about your values, unique traits, and experiences as well to create a truly compelling application.
Carmen earned a BA from the University at Albany and an MA from Columbia University’s Teachers College. She brings over 25 years of mentoring and leadership experience, including more than 10 years as Director of College and Career Counseling at Student Leadership Network, where she guided thousands of students and their families through the college admissions process. Carmen has worked closely with the Columbia University admissions office and served on admissions advisory boards for the State University of New York, gaining valuable insight into what selective schools look for in applicants.
Throughout her career, Carmen led a global diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEI&B) program that focused on talent and executive acquisition and building diverse teams for Fortune 100 clients. These accomplishments underscore her commitment to empowering young people and fostering equity and inclusion.
Carmen has also been a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) and the New York State Association for College Admission Counseling (NYSACAC), has presented at conferences, and has partnered with hundreds of colleges and universities nationwide. In her role on these admissions boards, she reviewed applications, advised on selection criteria for both private and public institutions, and helped shape programs that support student success.
Over the years, Carmen has helped students gain admission to NYU, Columbia, UPenn, Brown, Carnegie Mellon, Cornell, Princeton, Harvard, Yale, Dartmouth, Georgetown, and many other leading universities. Students she has worked with have earned over $33 million in scholarships and financial aid, including prestigious awards like the Gates Millennium and Posse Scholarships.
As a first-generation college student who earned an Ivy League degree, Carmen approaches mentoring with personal and professional purpose. She deeply understands the hopes, challenges, and opportunities that come with this transformative time in a young person’s life and is passionate about helping students discover their strengths, tell their authentic stories, and achieve their dreams.
Carmen strongly believes every student has a unique story to tell. She is dedicated to helping applicants clarify their goals, build confidence, and present their best selves with assurance. It brings her joy to guide students and their families through what can be an exciting and overwhelming journey, providing peace of mind and practical support every step of the way.
As a coach, Carmen excels at building genuine connections and creating personalized strategies for success. She has a clear and supportive communication style and is known for helping students stay organized, motivated, and focused while balancing ambition with well-being. Above all, Carmen’s goal is to provide every student with personalized guidance, encouragement, and clarity so they can navigate this important chapter with confidence and calm.
Outside of her professional life, Carmen enjoys spending time with her faith community, family, and friends. She loves hiking, yoga, Tae Bo, and meditation. She is also a faith-based coach and author of self-help books focused on personal growth and purpose.
Carmen’s Pro Tip?
Admissions committees look beyond grades and test scores—they seek authenticity, resilience, and fit. Students must highlight the qualities and experiences that truly set them apart.
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Charles earned his degree from Harvard University. He has served as an interviewer at Harvard University, where he assessed global applicants and managed candidate profiles. He also served as an application reader and interviewer at Columbia University. Over the years, he has helped students gain admission to elite institutions including MIT, Harvard, Columbia, Stanford, UC Berkeley, UPenn, Cornell, Brown, Johns Hopkins, NYU, Vanderbilt, Rice, UChicago, UCLA, USC, Northwestern, UCSD, UMich–Ann Arbor, Duke, and many others.
As a philosophy educator and college essay writing tutor, Charles studies the transformations and turning points in the lives of great thinkers, from Plato to Nietzsche, to understand how character and narrative shape understanding. He applies this same approach to college coaching, helping students discover who they are as characters on a journey and communicate the world they come from. His goal is to guide students toward essays that reveal genuine insight and authenticity.
Charles believes every student already carries thousands of stories, and how those stories are told makes all the difference. His work focuses on helping students find their unique voice, clarify their message, and express themselves with precision and honesty. Through his admissions and tutoring experience, he has developed a coaching style rooted in structure, self-discovery, and careful reflection. He sees the college admissions process as building an orchestra, where looking for a prodigy is just as important as searching for the person who would bake cookies for the rehearsal.
Outside of his work, Charles enjoys cooking.
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Chris is a graduate of the University of Chicago and served on the admissions committee, where he reviewed applications, assessed essays, and conducted interviews. Students he has recently coached have gained admission to top-tier schools, including Brown, Harvard, Yale, Princeton, UPenn, Cornell, and Dartmouth.
Over the past 10+ years, Chris has helped thousands of students polish their personal statements and essays. With 20+ years of experience in teaching high school English at a top-tier school in the Chicagoland area, Chris has a strong sense of applicant and parental expectations. He has also supported students applying to pre-college summer programs and scholarships.
When it comes to coaching, Chris loves helping applicants craft a compelling story and reach their ultimate goals. He describes the college application process as exciting, nerve-wracking, laborious, and rewarding. Chris appreciates that this journey can be an emotional roller coaster, but knows it’s always worth it!
Chris’ greatest strength as a coach is discovering unexplored balance. He excels at highlighting the uniqueness of the boy who feels ordinary, finding the right school for the quirky girl, accentuating the creative side of the math enthusiast, building confidence in the insecure, and exploring the vulnerability of the self-assured. For highly self-motivated students, Chris can help reduce stress and nervousness. For parents worried about organization and deadlines, he can keep students on track and accountable. Chris shines at painting a colorful and nuanced picture of each applicant.
When Chris isn’t coaching students, he enjoys “unplugging” in nature, taking improv classes with his wife, and riding roller coasters with his teenagers. He is a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, teaches humanities, and enjoys a wide variety of topics such as philosophy, neuroscience, Shakespeare, world religions, large language models, and more.
Corey has a Bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University and a JD from Georgetown University Law Center. In addition, they have an MPH from the Harvard School of Public Health. Corey has served as an Interviewer at Georgetown University, where they interviewed and scored applicants. Professionally, Corey has served as an Attorney with over fifteen years of experience in public policy, including a decade of work in sexual and reproductive health and LGBTQ rights.
Corey’s interest in coaching stemmed from their own experience of applying to college as a first-generation student at a public school. They had to navigate the process solo and quickly became an expert among their friends. Corey’s guidance counselors even hung their application materials on the office walls as a template for other students! Since then, Corey has coached many students on their educational journey - whether as a teacher, an alum providing outreach, an employer mentoring interns, or a community volunteer working with youth programs.
As a coach, Corey thoroughly enjoys getting to know Quad applicants and learning about their goals. They pride themselves on being a good listener and motivating students to create what they hope to. Corey addresses any roadblocks honestly and works with students to find solutions together. Corey’s greatest strength as a coach is their approach to the application; they work with students to tackle it one step at a time while also planning ahead. This puts Quad applicants at ease, allowing them to enjoy applying to college with as little stress as possible. Corey is also a big fan of backward planning. They encourage applicants to start with what they are passionate about and what they can imagine spending their life doing - and working backward from there. At the end of the day, college admissions is very important, but it's only the first step on the road to your future.
Writing and reading are two of Corey’s main passions. They have contributed to two forthcoming books, but they also love to write just for them. Corey also loves spending time with their family, gaming, and traveling.
Corey’s Pro Tip?
An applicant might be identical on paper to many other students, but there is a lot that is unique about you that can come out in different ways in this process. What is your story? Why is this college perfect for you, and what can YOU offer to the college? Answering these questions is easily worth as much as a test score or GPA.
David is a former admissions officer at Brown University who is currently based in South Carolina. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Brown University with a dual concentration in History and Biomedical Ethics. David has had a long and successful career both in and outside the admissions world. After working for a large law firm in Washington DC for a year, he attended Cornell Law School graduating with a Juris Doctor in Public Law. Following his graduation from law school, David served in the United States Navy as a Judge Advocate for three years on active duty while stationed in Great Lakes, Illinois, and Newport, Rhode Island. David worked as an attorney for the U.S. Immigration & Naturalization Service following his military service. After that, he practiced immigration law for over ten years.
After a long legal career, David transitioned into his true passion: higher education to help undergraduate students find engaging internships and post-graduation positions and assist them with applications to top colleges. He started at Northeastern University, heading the pre-law office, where he made decisions on which pre-law students to admit and helped them get accepted at top law schools. In addition, he taught hundreds of international students in a professionalism and career readiness course designed to prepare them for working in the United States.
Following his work at the illustrious Northeastern University admissions office, David ran a program for student veterans at the University of Massachusetts Boston, helping students prepare and gain admittance to highly selective colleges. Having found his niche in providing one-on-one advising to students, David returned to his Alma Mater to work as an Admission Specialist for the Brown University admission office. At Brown, David was responsible for evaluating thousands of applications and making admissions committee recommendations. In addition, he was also responsible for all merit scholarship reviews and has an in-depth understanding of what highly selective schools such as Brown are looking for when making scholarship decisions.
Outside of work, David tries to keep up with his three amazing children, the oldest in graduate school in Shark Biology and youngest attending college in Film Studies. He often spends weekends exploring the Carolina Lowlands and nearby Islands for unique beaches and foods. Originally from the Boston area, David is a lifelong Red Sox fan and continues to follow the team closely. David is currently trying his hand at starting a small orchard with the hopes of someday making small-batch jams and wines.
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Earlanda is the Senior Associate Dean at the University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine with over a decade of admissions experience. She has over a decade of admissions committee experience across multiple health professions disciplines , having reviewed and interviewed candidates for dental and medical school. For the past 10 years, she has been deeply engaged in the medical school admissions process, screening applications, interviewing candidates, reviewing prerequisite coursework, and delivering the Dean’s admissions presentation. Students Earlanda has worked with have been accepted to institutions such as Rice University, Baylor University, multiple schools in the University of Texas system, and more.
Earlanda earned her Bachelor’s degree from Texas State University and her PhD from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She previously held the role of Associate Dean of Clinical and Applied Science Education at the University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine before transitioning to Senior Associate Dean of Academic Affairs . In these positions, she has reviewed applications, interviewed candidates, evaluated prerequisites, delivered institutional presentations, and served on final selection panels. She began her admissions work in 2012 and has helped shape the incoming classes of several top-tier health science programs.
As a counselor, Earlanda offers students a compelling blend of strategic admissions insight and empathetic mentorship. Serving on admissions teams across multiple health professions has taught Earlanda what truly matters in the application review process. She has gained a deep understanding of the factors that are most heavily weighted, including academic readiness, personal character, meaningful experiences, and a clear sense of purpose. She has learned how to identify the qualities that help a candidate stand out from the rest and how those attributes often correlate with long-term success, not just in gaining acceptance but in thriving through graduation and beyond. These insights allow Earlanda to coach applicants with intention, helping them present a compelling, authentic narrative that aligns with what admissions committees value most.
Earlanda has been mentoring students since high school, and has continued to coach applicants at every level—from high school and undergraduate programs to graduate and professional schools. She is committed to providing thoughtful, personalized guidance that empowers students and families to navigate the admissions process with confidence and clarity.
Earlanda’s passion for coaching comes from her own experience as a first-generation, female minority college student and PhD graduate. She understands the transformative power of higher education and is dedicated to helping students find schools that match their values and set them on paths to success. She believes that college is a pivotal time in a young adult’s life, one that lays the foundation for a future career they’ll love and a life filled with purpose. Guiding students through the application process allows Earlanda to support their growth, help them articulate their unique stories, and empower them to make choices that lead to lifelong joy and fulfillment.
Outside of her professional work, Earlanda enjoys attending her son's basketball games, hosting dinner parties, and planning vacations and special events for her loved ones.
David graduated with summa cum laude honors from the College of the Ozarks, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art. He has been actively involved in the education realm since 1999; he began tutoring in 2005 and successfully owned and operated his tutoring business, HELP Tutoring, from 2009 to 2020. He has tutored approximately 500 students over the last couple of decades. David’s enduring commitment to tutoring stems from his joy in witnessing students succeed and the realization that tutoring is a powerful avenue to facilitate that success. David specializes in tutoring at all levels of math, up to Calculus 1 and SAT and ACT prep.
Motivated by a passion for inspiring students and helping them unlock their potential, he strongly believes that having a caring mentor invested in students' success yields benefits beyond the academic realm. As a tutor, David actively engages in his students' educational journeys. His genuine care for their success is evident from the start, as he assists them in charting a clear path to achievement. Employing a direct and uncomplicated tutoring style, David effectively identifies what truly contributes to student success and what doesn't. He identifies the root of students' challenges and fills in any learning gaps. Beyond immediate academic concerns, he emphasizes the broader perspective, aiding students in recognizing the significance of their education—whether it be meeting graduation requirements or acing standardized tests.
David ensures students grasp the real-world applications of these concepts and the enduring advantages of mastering them for long-term success.David excels at customizing his tutoring approach to suit the age and specific needs of his students. He has discovered that maintaining a blend of casual yet professional interaction is most effective, particularly when working with teenagers.When he’s not tutoring, David enjoys spending time with his wife and six kids. He also enjoys playing Madden football and has been DJing at various gigs for the past eight years.
Randee holds a Bachelor’s degree from SUNY Albany and Master’s degrees from Long Island University and the College of New Rochelle. With over 20 years of experience as a professionally trained SAT and ACT tutor, she has guided 250+ students to excel in their standardized tests.
Randee’s extensive background gives her a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs involved in the SAT/ACT prep process. Her passion for mentoring students and helping families navigate the journey shines through in her approachable and upbeat tutoring style. She knows that the path to success starts with building confidence and breaking down seemingly larger tasks into manageable steps. Randee aims to make learning engaging and stress-free by infusing enthusiasm and encouragement into her sessions. This tutoring style ensures students approach these high-stakes exams with calm determination.
As a tutor, Randee excels at meeting students where they are. Whether they are just beginning their test prep journey or aiming to refine their skills to achieve a top score, she customizes her approach based on each student’s unique needs and skill levels. Fluent in all sections and question types of the SAT and ACT, her sessions focus on delivering clever strategies, practical techniques, and test-specific tips to build students' confidence, knowledge, and preparedness to excel on test day. Her lifelong learning mindset also ensures she stays ahead of the curve on test prep strategies, making her an invaluable resource for students aiming to reach their full potential.
Aside from helping students achieve their SAT and ACT goals, Randee loves spending quality time with family and friends, attending her kids’ sporting events, solving puzzles, traveling, soaking up the sun at the beach whenever possible, and enjoying Broadway shows. Her well-rounded interests and personable nature, combined with her love for learning, problem-solving, and making a difference, make her a relatable and inspiring coach for students and families alike.
Michael graduated summa cum laude with a 3.9 GPA and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. He owes much of his success as a tutor to his time at UMichigan and his rigorous course load. After achieving a 99th percentile score of 1530 on the SAT, Michael launched his tutoring career, guiding students nationwide to excel on both the SAT and ACT—he has over three years of tutoring experience.
Michael strongly believes that succeeding on the SAT and ACT is more than just studying content—it's learning how to think, especially on exams where the same concept could be tested hundreds of different ways.
As a coach, Micael excels at adapting his approach to their learning style. He is friendly, patient, and genuinely wants to see each student succeed. He ensures he is readily accessible and goes above and beyond to support students in achieving their academic goals.
In his free time, Michael enjoys cooking, playing tennis, and cross-country skiing. He is also an avid traveler and has visited Portugal three times.
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Alice holds a Bachelor's degree from UCLA and a Master's from The University of Chicago. With over seven years of tutoring experience, she has honed her skills in test preparation, specializing in the SAT and ACT.
Alice is a dedicated educator passionate about guiding students toward academic success. Having worked in various tutoring agencies since completing her undergraduate studies, she has developed a unique approach to instruction. Alice excels in connecting with students, whether in a classroom setting, small group, or one-on-one, both in-person and virtually. Her strength is breaking down complex problems into manageable steps, making even the most overwhelming tasks approachable.
Her goal extends beyond preparing students for tests; she strives to instill a deep understanding of the subject matter, ensuring students can apply these concepts beyond the classroom. With a motto of meeting students where they are, Alice is committed to guiding them through their academic journey, helping them achieve their desired test scores and beyond.
Outside of tutoring, if Alice isn't reading a book in one of the many cafes in the Chicagoland area, she is exploring the rich food and music scene Chicago has to offer. She likes to attend intimate shows and eat good food with good company!
University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor's
Matthew is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He is an accomplished academic tutor and college admissions consultant with a wealth of experience and a passion for helping students succeed. Matthew has achieved a perfect score on the ACT and SAT subject tests and specializes in the mathematics and science sections. He also serves as a tutor and teaching assistant in various STEM subjects, including data structures and algorithms, machine learning, linear algebra, and calculus.
Matthew’s achievements include qualifying for the American Invitational Math Exam (AIME) four times during high school. He also served as a teaching assistant for Olympiad math courses at a renowned summer camp and has a deep passion for teaching higher-level mathematics.
One of Matthew's most notable accolades is his recognition as a U.S. Presidential Scholar by the Department of Education, one of the highest honors awarded to only 161 high schoolers nationwide.
Outside of academics, Matthew currently works in quantitative trading. He can offer valuable insights and guidance to students interested in pursuing careers in quantitative finance and software engineering.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Matthew has lived in Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong, and Australia, where he bartended, surfed, and coached tennis. He's passionate about finding personal development through traveling, and he’s also a creative enthusiast in electronic music production.
Duke University - Bachelor's
Saumya graduated from Duke University, where she received the AB Duke scholarship. She has over a decade of tutoring experience, mostly focused on the ACT and SAT. Saumya taught her first math class when she was 14 years old and has been tutoring ever since. Professionally, Saumya works at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine as a clinical researcher in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department. She leads several initiatives to improve reproductive health equity, and in her free time, she is an adolescent health educator. Her passion for education and access to education drives everything she does.
Saumya started tutoring the SAT/ACT shortly after taking the tests herself in high school. While preparing for the exams, she learned tips and tricks that helped her "crack" the exams and wanted to pass this information on to others. Saumya believes there is a clear difference between understanding the content tested on the SAT/ACT and how to take the exam. Instead of just teaching "exam hacks," Saumya loves helping students understand the "why" behind the solution and then employing exam hacks to help them solve problems more quickly.
Saumya loves teaching and seeing students reach their "breakthrough" moment. She is excited to get to know Quad students and help them through this process!
Outside of professional pursuits, Saumya loves spending time with her dog, Mallard. Mallard is a 10-year-old rescue and has always had the name Mallard, but Saumya thinks he was named because of his duck noises. Mallard will sometimes say hi through Saumya's computer screen! Saumya also loves trying new coffee recipes, playing guitar, and singing.
Tersoo is pursuing a Bachelor’s from Princeton University, where he excels and consistently holds a 3.9+ GPA. He is deeply passionate about education and learning in his personal and professional life, having undergone training as a tutor at Princeton's Learning Center. He broke the 1500+ threshold on his first and only SAT attempt, so he’s no stranger to a rigorous, skill-based approach to preparing for this exam.
Tersoo has a rich understanding of learning psychology which he constantly leverages in his pursuit of studying Computer Architecture and Quantum Engineering. Above all, Tersoo takes the utmost pride in his work as an SAT tutor as he seeks to enrich his clients with knowledge on tackling the SAT conceptually and time-efficiently.
While Tersoo is deeply academic, aspiring to attain a PhD in Computer Architecture, he also holds many creative interests, notably in fashion, graphic design, music, and photography. Whenever he is back home in Calgary, one of his favorite activities is finding vintage clothing at his local Goodwill with friends. He also prides himself in physical health as an avid weightlifter and recreational athlete.
When Tersoo isn’t studying, drafting new pieces for his up-and-coming clothing brand, or listening to music, you'll find him attempting a new squat PR or playing pick-up soccer with grad students.
Emory University - Bachelor's
Gabriella holds a Bachelor’s degree from Emory University. She is an expert in SAT and ACT test prep and is experienced in tutoring students one-on-one and teaching SAT workshops.
Gabriella’s passion for tutoring grew while working part-time in elementary school classrooms as an undergraduate. Since then, she has been committed to supporting students in their academic growth and helping them achieve their goals.
Gabriella approaches test prep by targeting students’ weakest subject areas and arming them with the necessary strategies to improve their comprehension and pacing on the test. As a positive and patient tutor, she builds on students’ foundational knowledge while also building their confidence. Her goal is to convert her students into empowered test takers by providing them with all the tools and support they need to succeed. Gabriella’s methods have produced positive results and feedback from students with increased scores and confidence.
In her spare time, Gabriella enjoys reading, writing, singing, and spending quality time with friends.
A biomedical engineer by training, Zach developed a passion for global health and emergency medicine after becoming licensed as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) through the United States NREMT. He has since worked with emergency medical response teams in Missouri, Arizona, and California, and earned certifications in FEMA Incident Command and Management Systems (IS-100/200/700) as well as EMS instruction through the National Association of EMS Educators. In 2018, Zach co-founded the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization LFR International, with the goal of alleviating the global burden of traumatic injury in low- and middle-income countries.
Since 2012, he has had experience with executive structuring and nonprofit management through Play it Forward , a 501(c)(3) organization, as a member of the Youth Advisory Board. He has developed several biomedical devices including a low-cost prosthetic, and a univentricular assist pump, as well as conducted metabolomics research at the UCLA Semel Institute of Neuroscience.
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Master's: Washington University in St. Louis
Undergrad: Peking University
Full-time GRE tutor
I've memorized all the elements in Periodic Table in order before going to high school, and can reconstruct the periodic table in 2 minutes 16 seconds on paper and 3 minutes and 16 seconds on the whiteboard.
Medical School: University of Michigan Medical School
Undergrad: Amherst College
4th Year Medical Student at University of Michigan Medical School
I played cello on radio as part of an interview with WEMU about the University of Michigan Life Sciences Orchestra.
Whit is a 2020 graduate from the University of Michigan Medical School, where he was involved in student government, joined the Path of Excellence in Medical Ethics, and was Editor-in-Chief of the Michigan Journal of Medicine, among other activities.
Prior to medical school, he studied at Amherst College, earning a BA with Distinction while double-majoring in Mathematics and Economics. He conducted research at the University of Michigan's Michigan Cardiovascular Outcomes Research and Reporting Program (MCORRP), played in the Amherst Symphony Orchestra, and qualified for the NAQT National Tournament with Amherst College Quizbowl.
While in medical school, Whit decided to pursue a career in healthcare policy, electing not to continue to residency. While this puts him in a small minority of MDs without further clinical training, his nontraditional path affords a unique perspective on the key decisions facing students who may not know exactly what they want as they head into the medical school applications process.
Whit enjoys board gaming, crossword puzzles, and cooking.
Medical School: UCSF
Undergrad: Harvard College
MD Candidate at UCSF
I learned how to cut my own hair several years ago, and I also help cut other people's hair occasionally! A minor dream of mine is to run an informal barbershop for my colleagues when I work in a hospital/clinic.
Maxwell is currently working as a medical assistant in Massachusetts during his gap year while applying to MD programs. Maxwell studied Computational Neuroscience with a minor in Ethnicity, Migration, Rights at Harvard for undergrad. His teaching experience started in high school as a teaching assistant and tutor for chemistry, biology, and math courses. In college, he was a course assistant for an advanced integrated science class and a tutor/afterschool counselor for children in Boston's Chinatown. Maxwell has over a year of MCAT teaching experience, both working with students 1-on-1 and co-teaching larger classes.
He's excited to make the MCAT at least a little more fun and engaging by thinking about conceptual connections and real-world applications! Maxwell's also happy to answer any questions about applying to medical school as a first-generation college and medical student.
Medical School: Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D School of Medicine
Undergrad: Grand Valley State University
MD Candidate at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D School of Medicine
I am serving as a Christian missionary in Spain this Spring. I am fluent in Spanish, and love hiking, running, craft coffee, and studying theology.
In December of 2021, Kayla graduated with distinction from The Fredrick Meijer Honors College at Grand Valley State University, with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science with an emphasis in Microbiology and a minor in Spanish. While there, she was accepted as a junior at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D School of Medicine, through the early acceptance partnership (EAP) track. She was the only student in her cohort to be accepted to the EAP class of 2026.
Kayla earned the Grand Valley Award for Excellence and The Presidential Scholarship, which covered the full cost of attendance. She was nominated for the I Am Grand Valley Award, which highlights students’ commitment to leadership and on-campus initiative, three years in a row. In addition, she was selected by the faculty of the Department of Biomedical Science as a graduate of distinction - an honor attributed to less than 2% of the graduating class.
During her time as a student, Kayla served as the president of the Ethics Bowl Team, and was proud to represent her university at national competition twice. She was actively involved in undergraduate research, and completed her honors thesis on role of carbonate in mediating yeast to hyphae conversion in the pathogenic fungus, Candida albicans. She then went on to conduct immunology research at The University of Iowa.
Kayla has been a tutor for over 6 years, and is passionate about crafting personalize success plans for her students. After taking the MCAT in September, 2020, she went to develop a six-week study program, which she taught online during the height of the COVID19 pandemic. She also offered numerous one night CARS crash course sessions, in addition to tutoring college biology, microbiology and genetics. She was the top tutor at The Grand Valley Tutoring Center in 2021, having conducted over 250 sessions in one semester. She has served a diverse range of students, including veterans, adult-learners, and those with disabilities.
Once in medical school, Kayla plans to pursue an academic distinction in global medicine and public health, as well as continue research in infectious disease and immunology.
Medical School: Perelman School of Medicine at UPenn
Undergrad: Columbia University
MD Candidate at Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
I am an avid baker and love trying out new restaurants/dessert spots! I am a classical pianist and amateur biker!
Katherine graduated summa cum laude from Columbia University with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering in 2020. She is currently in her first year at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. Katherine was inducted in the engineering honor society, Tau Beta Pi, and received the Robert Edward Reiss Award in Chemical Engineering for outstanding promise in biochemical engineering.
In college, Katherine conducted clinical research at the Penn Frontotemporal Degeneration Center and the New York Presbyterian Neurological Intensive Care Unit. Katherine was a teaching assistant for chemistry lab and lead a clinical research program at the Mt. Sinai hospital system. She also served as president for her Greek organization and was a pianist in a classical chamber ensemble.
In medical school, Katherine has already joined clinical research projects, community clinics, and interest groups. She is interested in pursuing a career in a surgical subspecialty. Katherine is actively involved in the admissions process as an interviewer and has spent much of her time mentoring others applying to medical school. Over the years through tutoring, teaching and mentoring, Katherine has been passionate about helping others. Having just recently gone through the medical school admissions process herself, she is dedicated to helping others navigate applying, and she is very excited to work with students.
Medical school - UT Southwestern Medical Center
Undergrad - University of Kansas
Grad student at University of Pennsylvania
I was the ranked as the fourth-best pole vaulter in the state of Kansas when I was a senior in high school.
Joseph grew up in a small town in Kansas, where he was the only student from his graduating class of ~70 to “make the leap” to a legitimate, 4-year university.
Fast forward four years: Joseph graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in Neurobiology, addended with an awkwardly long list of honors. For instance, in his junior and senior years, he received the annual award recognizing the biology department’s top student, per faculty consensus. In addition, he was also honored with more than a handful of semi-redundant accolades for “excellence in biomedical research”. Outside of the biology department, Joseph was named as 1 of 20 University Scholars in my graduating class of >5,000 students. Concurrently, he worked jobs as a teaching assistant in biochemistry and physiology courses, and played an integral role in establishing a pre-med advisor faculty position within the university’s honors program. Joseph also published a first-author study elucidating the molecular mechanism underlying a phenomenon of paradoxically prolonged vasoconstriction largely responsible for downstream infarctions secondary to vascular insult.
Three months after graduating from KU, he began medical school at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. This is where Joseph felt he really refined a lot of the studying and test-taking strategies he expects to explore en route to masterminding an individualized game plan with every nuance uniquely dedicated to identifying and exploiting the challenges (aka, opportunities) wedged between you and your full potential- which, in his experience, frequently exceeds students’ initial goals.
He has also been an MCAT tutor for three years; helping over hundreds of students crush the overly lengthy exam and, ultimately, get into medical school. All these years of MCAT tutoring have uniquely positioned him to guide future physicians along what is ubiquitously regarded as the most treacherous segment on the truly lifelong journey of medical education.
Undergrad: University of Alabama
Master's: University of Alabama
Research Specialist at Medical University of South Carolina
When I am not working, I am working on my antique truck, cycling, cooking, or watching Alabama football!
Harrison graduated summa cum laude with a 4.0 GPA from the University of Alabama in the spring of 2021. During his four years in college, Harrison completed his undergraduate degree while simultaneously enrolled in an accelerated master's program, enabling him to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and a Master of Science in Biology in the same four-year stint.
Additionally, Harrison was awarded the University of Alabama’s Presidential Scholarship, a full-tuition scholarship; the Grantland and Louise Scholarship for outstanding performance as a microbiology student; and full funding for his graduate research project. Throughout his time in college, Harrison was both involved in and led a variety of integrative research projects that investigated topics such as deforestation and the neuroendocrine stress response, sex change in hermaphroditic fish, and the interplay of disease and microbiome assemblage.
His participation in these projects earned him first, second, and third authorship in prep on three different publications. Outside of the classroom and laboratory, Harrison co-founded an organ donation awareness club, obtained an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) license while enrolled in classes, and tutored local students ages K-12. Over the course of his preparation for the MCAT, Harrison focused on collecting a variety of high-value, low-cost resources and crafted a study plan that was unique to his needs.
After achieving his goal score in the 97th percentile on the MCAT, he decided to pursue tutoring as a professional endeavor. Harrison’s tutoring system centers around open communication with his students that allows them to work together to diagnose problems, curate detailed MCAT preparation plans, and compile pointed content review. He looks forward to working with you, side-by-side, as you achieve your goal score and gain admission into your dream medical school!
Undergrad: St. John's College
Full-time GRE tutor
I perform with the sketch comedy group Punchline Loading in New York City.
Audra is a GMAT/GRE tutor based in Brooklyn, New York. With over six years of experience teaching hundreds of students both one-on-one and in the classroom, Audra helps business school and graduate school applicants maximize their testing performance with personalized instruction focused on their areas of need. Audra has achieved a 98th-percentile score of 750 on the GMAT and a 335/340 on GRE. She loves sharing her knowledge and helping each client reach their potential!
Audra received her B.A. in Liberal Arts from St. John's College in Annapolis, Maryland in 2013. The degree is equivalent to a double major in Philosophy and the History of Mathematics and Science, and a double minor in Classics and Comparative Literature. She is currently attending the online Master of Computer and Information Technology program at the University of Pennsylvania. In her free time, Audra enjoys reading and performing with the sketch comedy group Punchline Loading... in New York City.
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Undergrad: Northwestern University
3rd Year Medical Student at Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Cinical Research Fellow at Harvard Medical School / Massachusetts General Hospital
I once lost my wallet on a trip to DC and had to beg 3 TSA agents to let me on the flight back home with no ID.
Akhil was raised in the Greater Chicago and Philadelphia areas. Beginning in high school, he worked as a tutor for Kumon Learning Center, performed hepatocellular carcinoma research at the Baruch Blumberg Institute, and became certified as an EMT. He then attended Northwestern University in Evanston, IL and graduated with a degree in Economics and Biological Sciences with a Concentration in Neurobiology as well as a Certificate in Leadership. During his time at Northwestern, he participated in peer-tutoring, basic science research, and was the President of the largest cultural organization on campus. In addition, he was an active member of the dance community, serving as the captain for the University’s bhangra dance team. During his senior year, he worked as a Business Analyst for ExplORer Surgical, a surgical startup in Chicago that solidified his passion for pursuing orthopaedics in the future. Following graduation, he matriculated to the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University and obtained his MBA at the Fox School of Business at Temple University.
In medical school, he continued to teach, mentor, and advise undergraduate students. He currently serves as a USMLE Step 1 tutor for Inspira Advantage. He conducted interviews for prospective undergraduate applicants and served as an advisor for prospective medical school applicants. Throughout medical school, he pursued orthopaedic surgery research at the Rothman Orthopaedic Institute and Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, and was able to publish his research and abstracts. He has over 20 abstract presentations and publications, many of them as first author. He received a 257 (~95th percentile) on USMLE Step 1 and is currently on his clinical rotations.
Altogether, he has been teaching a wide range of subjects for more than 10 years and has tutored for several board exams including the SAT, MCAT, and USMLE Step 1. He has a strong commitment to education and mentorship and believes that hard work, passion, and a willingness to ask for help are the keys to reaching one’s goals. He understands the complexities of the medical school admission process, and wishes to work closely with his students to form an individualized plan and provide personalized attention and guidance.
He is currently a third-year medical student and is interested in pursuing a residency in orthopaedic surgery. He recently completed a prestigious orthopaedic research fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital. In his free time, he enjoys basketball, trying out new recipes, rooting for the Sixers and Bears, and discovering new coffeeshops in Philadelphia. BEAR DOWN!
UCLA - Bachelor’s
Georgetown University - Master’s
Claudia holds a Bachelor’s from UCLA and a Master’s from Georgetown University. She has been a professional SAT/ACT tutor for almost 10 years. Students she has tutored have gone on to attend several top-tier universities, including UC Berkeley, UCLA, USC, Georgetown, Princeton, Columbia, and Yale.
Professionally, Claudia is a Clinical Research Consultant for the Washington DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center. In this role, she embarks on various projects with her team so that up-and-coming medications and scientific devices can enter the market. Despite having a fulfilling career in research, Claudia dedicates time to education because she wants to nurture academic interests in young students.
In college, Claudia discovered her love for traveling. She studied abroad in England for two months and then backpacked through various European countries for a month. She also volunteered in Guatemala to provide medical care for the local community, where she discovered that she would like to pursue healthcare as a career.
As a tutor, Claudia is personable and friendly. She prioritizes establishing a relationship with her students and believes a good relationship between the tutor, student, and parent/guardian is necessary for trust and effective communication. She understands that each individual is unique, so she adjusts her teaching methods to accommodate each student.
Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Claudia spends most of her time exploring the outdoors, discovering great restaurants, practicing yoga, playing the piano/guitar/saxophone, reading fiction novels, or watching anime. She is always looking for new anime to watch, so if you have recommendations, let her know!
Harvard University - Master’s
With a Master's degree from Harvard University, Eric is a supportive and effective tutor focused on helping students achieve their academic goals. He has over seven years of tutoring experience, working with students from diverse backgrounds, educational goals, and personalities.
Specializing in ACT studies, Eric has traveled the USA giving full-day lectures to schools of students on how to ace the ACT. He has studied psychology (including test construction/test making) and is ready to give students specific help on individual questions and test-taking tips that make taking the ACT much easier. So whether students aim for mastery, just enough for their dream school, or just a little advice, Eric is always happy to meet and work with students to achieve their goals.
When Eric isn't tutoring, he studies for the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) and plays board games. He loves board games, probably too much. Okay, too much (says his wife). Oh, and he makes a mean cheesecake.
Vanderbilt University - Master's
Isaac is pursuing a Master's degree from Vanderbilt University. He has over three years of tutoring experience in STEM and the humanities, specializing in the ACT and SAT.
As a lifelong learner and storyteller, Isaac has spent the past decade working in many educational roles, including at nature centers, community non-profits, and in the classroom. He has also worked in mental and behavioral healthcare, offering services at a dual-diagnosis treatment facility, neurofeedback clinic, behavior analysis center, and jail.
His clinical and educational training supplements his academic abilities: his tutoring approach is a unique blend of clinical techniques and interpersonal skills combined with knowledge and expertise. Isaac’s philosophy is recognizing the whole person, not just a student. Isaac understands that each student has their own motivations, personality, strengths, and weaknesses. Recognizing these perspectives, building a collaborative approach attuned to each student’s style, and capitalizing on their motivations are the keys to success.
Furthermore, Isaac’s perspective extends to standardized testing. The ACT and SAT are knowledge tests, and he encourages students to think about how these tests are designed since it’s just as valuable as knowing the material. Being a storyteller trained in many roles has enabled Isaac to hone this skill, so he can connect to others and help them understand and tap into the proper mindsets to excel on these tests. He aims to empower students to achieve their academic (and other) aspirations!
A fun fact about Isaac is that he hates chocolate! But he loves roller skating, murder mysteries, and puns! One of his favorites? Do you know what you call an upset exam? A: Test-y.
UC Irvine- Master's
Andy has a Master’s degree from UC Irvine and has over a decade of experience in SAT, ACT, and GRE tutoring. Andy loves to see learners push themselves out of their comfort zones and gain the confidence to reach their goals. In working with students of all backgrounds and abilities, from first-generation students to children of Ivy League alumni, their favorite tutoring moments are when candidates spot patterns in tests and therefore realize they have the skills to ace the ACT or SAT. This is why Andy focuses on strategy first, personalizing each learning plan to the candidate's unique strengths and goals.
Andy is passionate about helping students understand different ways to approach a problem or understand a concept - there's never one right way because everyone learns differently. They are skilled at helping students spot the differences between what they learned in classes at school and what to pay attention to on a standardized test. Andy also likes creating graphic organizers and other tools to help applicants stay organized and break the work down visually. Nothing makes them happier than congratulating a graduating senior – especially one who was nervous at the beginning of the school year – and seeing the excitement in their eyes when they talk about what's ahead of them.
Andy's greatest strengths as a tutor include empathizing with students, respecting their learning styles, and developing customized tools and strategies to help applicants stay organized and focused. Andy has helped students gain acceptance to several prestigious schools, including UC Berkeley, UCLA, NYU, and Northwestern University.
Outside of their work, Andy enjoys walking around Los Angeles, learning about local history, reading, and watching horror movies.
