Meet our Academic Coaches
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Steve F.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12, Test Prep)
Steve is the Founder and Educational Director of Private Prep. He has over ten years of tutoring experience, specializing in math for students in K-12 and standardized test prep. Growing up in Bethesda, Maryland, Steve has been a coach, teaching assistant and tutor since 1993. After graduating on the Dean's List at Emory University, Steve moved to New York City and worked in finance at UBS while moonlighting as a private tutor. After two years, his fervor for education combined with his students' success inspired him to focus on developing a tutoring service in Manhattan. Steve has taught part time at the Calhoun School and is pursuing a Masters Degree in Education at New York University. He lives on the Upper West Side with his wife, Lauren, and loves traveling, sports, great food and spending time with friends and family.
Stefanie L.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12, Test Prep)
Stefanie brings a diverse set of experiences to her math lessons. After graduating from Northwestern, she spent time as a ski instructor in California and gymnastics teacher in New York City. Electing to forgo medical school, Stefanie decided to dedicate her career to helping students realize their potential and entered the NYC Teaching Fellows program. For the next four years, Stefanie taught math and built curriculum as a department head at the Bronx Center for Science and Mathematics. Stefanie has also spent time as a leader on Outward Bound experiential learning trips in Alabama and the Everglades.
Jeremy C.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12, Test Prep)
A Roslyn native, Jeremy has taught math at Herricks High School since 2006. He has developed an outstanding reputation as an educator in the community by giving students the confidence to tackle challenging math concepts. As a tutor, Jeremy gets to know his students on a personal level and helps them maximize their potential in class and on standardized tests. Jeremy has a master’s degree in secondary education from Hofstra University and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the Stern School of Business at NYU. Prior to teaching math at Herricks, Jeremy was an accountant at Morgan Stanley. He currently lives in Roslyn with his wife Melany and dog Eli.
Zack G.
Subjects tutored: Test Prep, English (Writing Skills, College Essays), Spanish
Over the past five school years, Zack has helped students improve SAT scores, become more proficient in Spanish, and implement essential organizational skills. Zack is originally from the Philadelphia metro area. He relocated to New York to attend New York University, where he majored in Romance Languages; focusing on Spanish and Portuguese. While at NYU, he earned the distinction of a Presidential Scholar and graduated magna cum laude with high honors. Following graduation, Zack decided to follow his passion for education and joined the Private Prep team. Zack also works with children at education-based birthday parties at the Museum of Natural History and the Central Park Zoo. A trained actor, Zack has performed in off-Broadway shows, independent films and at improv comedy venues around New York City.
Adam D.
Subjects tutored: English (Writing Skills, Test Prep, College Essays), Math (K-12, Test Prep), Spanish, Greek & Latin
A graduate of Harvard University with a degree in Classics, and of Boston University and Columbia University with masters degrees in creative writing, Adam is a tutor with over a decade's experience in standardized tests, literature, composition, mathematics, Spanish, Greek and Latin. He works as a part-time creative writing instructor and freelance editor/proofreader for businesses and individual clients, including students who need essay assistance. He is a published poet and book reviewer.
Kate C.
Subjects tutored: ISEE/SSAT Test Prep, Writing, Italian, Mathematics
Originally from Massachusetts, Kate graduated from the University of Delaware with a degree in Art History, Italian and International Business. A lover of learning with an insatiable curiosity, Kate has been tutoring since middle school. Interested not only in sharing information, but in engaging and inspiring, Kate has tutored three romance languages, writing, history and mathematics. When not found working at the Private Prep office or tutoring, Kate can most likely be found adventuring around on her bicycle, cooking up something tasty, or bending her mind and body at a yoga class.
Adam A.
Subjects tutored: Mathematics, Organization, Test Prep, Physics, Humanities
Adam has his BA from Brown University and his MFA from UC San Diego. He has been an educator in various forms for most of his adult life. He has tutored privately for over twelve years, teaching students from New York, LA, and San Diego's best schools. He works as an admissions consultant, helping students apply to college and business school, as well as having taught undergrad courses in Acting and Public speaking at UC San Diego. Adam is also a a professional director, and currently serves as the associate director on the national tour of 2010's tony winner for best musical, "Memphis." Along with directing, Adam also acts and has appeared on Law and Order as well as in numerous Broadway and off Broadway productions.
Adam M.
Subjects tutored: Test Prep, Mathematics, English
Hailing from Birmingham, Alabama, Adam graduated from Brown University with a degree in Theater Arts. Over the years with Private Prep, he has developed an expertise in high school and college entrance exams, including the SAT, ACT, ISEE, SSAT and SHSAT, as well as middle- and high- school Math and English. As a tutor, he enjoys working with a wide range of students, and always strives to make the material accessible, relevant, and interesting. An actor and playwright, Adam has performed in numerous plays in New York. In early 2011 he co-founded AntiMatter Collective, which produced his original play Death Valley at The Bushwick Starr to rave reviews. In his free time, he enjoys reading, drawing, and playing guitar.
Adrienne C.
Subjects tutored: English, French, Spanish
Adrienne graduated summa cum laude from Fordham University with a BA in French Studies and Philosophy and a minor in Spanish. In her junior year, she studied abroad in both Paris, France and Santiago, Chile. She has traveled to other parts of Europe and Latin America for pleasure, service, and dance. Throughout high school and college, in the United States and abroad, she has tutored students of varying levels in English, French, and Spanish. Adrienne loves to teach how to learn a foreign language and works in the targeted foreign language to build students’ confidence and oral skills. Although she plans to do graduate work in interpretation and translation in the future, she is currently taking time off from academics to pursue a career in dance.
Alexandra O.
Subjects tutored: Mathematics
Originally from Russia, Alexandra graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Engineering from Rutgers University in 2007. Recently Alexandra has completed her Ph.D. studies in Biomedical Sciences at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in NYC, exploring the relationship between obesity and heart disease. Alexandra has been passionate about teaching since college, where she tutored high school students in mathematics, sciences, and Test Prep with another New York area tutoring company. In her free time, Alexandra enjoys ballroom/Latin dancing, traveling, playing piano, and skiing.
Andrew B.
Subjects tutored: Test Prep
After graduating Cum Laude from Colgate University, Andrew moved back to his native Los Angeles. It was during this time that he started tutoring for the SAT and ACT and discovered his love for test prep. After a couple of years mastering the LA scene and ready for a new adventure, Andrew moved to Brooklyn, NY to continue his educational pursuits. Here he continued private tutoring, as well as working as an academic tutor with an after school arts program with a middle school in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Through his enthusiasm Andrew succeeds in not only imparting knowledge, but also a love for learning that is immeasurable.
Andrew D.
Subjects tutored: Math, Test Prep
The son of two lifetime educators, Andrew is a committed and creative tutor with extensive experience in education and the arts. Andrew is a graduate of Dartmouth College, where he majored in Theater and minored in Psychology, with a focus on Learning. He has tutored in New Hampshire, California, New Jersey and New York over the past five years and has also served as an interim Math Teacher at the Trevor Day School in New York City. Andrew recently received his Master of Fine Arts in Acting from the Old Globe/USD Professional Actor Training Program and has appeared in numerous plays in San Diego and New York.
Ben S.
Subjects tutored: Physics, Math
Ben graduated magna cum laude from Brown University with a degree in chemical physics, and has been tutoring math and physics for the past eight years. After college, he taught high school math and physics at a small charter school in California for two years, before moving back east to do research in computational physics. He couldn’t stay away from teaching altogether, however, and continues to tutor at every chance he gets! In his free time, Ben enjoys rock climbing, hiking, and explaining physics to his friends over dinner.
Brianna N.
Subjects tutored: Math, Math Test Prep
Brianna graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Sacred Heart University. She is completing her Masters Degree in Mathematics Education at New York University. While completing her undergraduate program, she volunteered at a tutoring program with students ranging from kindergarten through 8th grade. Currently she also privately tutors at a high school level and works at the University Learning Center tutoring a wide range of college math courses. In her spare time, Brianna enjoys exploring Manhattan and discovering all of its hidden treasures.
Brianne W.
Subjects tutored: Math, Test Prep
Brianne is originally from Larksville PA, a former coal mining town located outside of Wilkes-Barre /Scranton PA. She attended Bucknell University where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics and was an active member of the Bucknell Opera Company. Upon graduation, Bri joined Teach for America and served as a High School math teacher at Malcolm X Shabazz HS for three years. After finishing her commitment to Teach for America in 2007, she received her Master’s Degree in Mathematics Education from the Teachers College at Columbia University. For the past three years, she has been serving as the math department chair at Newark Collegiate Academy, a college prep High School in Newark, New Jersey. In addition to working directly with students, Bri also enjoys developing curriculum and working with new teachers. Over the past year, she has written a K-12 math curriculum for her network, mentored first year math teachers at Seton Hall University, as well as serving as a Teacher’s Assistant for the math department at Columbia’s Teachers College.
Chloe C.
Subjects tutored: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics
Chloe graduated from Columbia University with a B.A. in Biology and Human Rights. While at Columbia, Chloe taught health education in public schools around the city. She found this experience so rewarding that upon graduation, she moved to Boston and to work full-time training other college students to teach health education in the Boston public school system. After two years doing this, Chloe moved back to New York City to start medical school at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. When not studying or teaching, Chloe can be found seeking out the best coffee shops in New York City, exploring central park, wandering through the Met or doing yoga.
Chloe T.
Subjects tutored: Mathematics, ISEE prep
Chloe is a Michigan native who moved to New York following her graduation from Bates College in Maine. A New York City Teaching Fellow, Chloe earned her Masters in Special Education at Long Island University, Brooklyn. Chloe teaches at the Brooklyn School for Collaborative Studies, and has taught Pre-Algebra, Algebra, Geometry, and Earth Science. In her spare time, Chloe enjoys cooking, yoga, running, and spending time with friends.
Christy H.
Subjects tutored: Math, Test Prep
Christy earned a B.S.E. in Civil Engineering and Architecture from Princeton University, graduating magna cum laude. With an Engineering background, she is great at giving real-world examples to hard problems that help enable students to grasp difficult material. Outside of tutoring, Christy has an appreciation for architecture and design as well as travel, the study of language, modern art and outdoor sports. After graduating from Princeton, she worked for a year and a half in Shanghai, China as an Architect. Since Christy’s return home to New York, she has launched her own clothing design company.
Dana S.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12)
Dana graduated from Dartmouth College with a B.A. in Mathematics. As a Math major, Dana discovered that she approaches life in much the same way that she approaches a Math problem - assessing her tools and skills, deciding which fit the situation, and taking steps that build on each other to reach a conclusion. After graduation, Dana moved to Israel on a 10-month service fellowship where she volunteered in a variety of settings, including a brief stint working in a zoo. Dana enjoys learning and speaking foreign languages and dabbled in digital animation in college. She was a 4-year varsity athlete as a coxswain for the Lightweight Men's Rowing Team and loves being outside, especially near water. She looks forward to sharing her enthusiasm for math, as well as a love of Sudoku and James Bond movies, with her students.
Daniel R.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12, Test Prep)
An avid sports fan and life-long New Yorker, Daniel has spent the last seven years of his life at the front of the classroom teaching mathematics. He has worked in both public and private schools, the last four of which were spent teaching Algebra and Pre-Algebra in the middle division of the Horace Mann School. Though a difficult decision, Daniel left H.M. after the past academic year to pursue his doctorate in Educational Leadership at New York University. His research interests include issues of teacher quality, teacher efficacy and teacher happiness. He also holds a M.S. in Mathematics.
Danielle K.
Subjects tutored: Biology, Physics
A cum laude BA graduate from Middlebury College and a Minnesota native, Danielle is passionate about the sciences, and about teaching as well as learning. Currently a Research Assistant in the Department of Surgery at Mount Sinai, she is extremely interested in Biology and Physics as they relate to medicine. She hopes to attend medical school to continue to pursue this interest. In her free time, Danielle enjoys running, yoga, and cooking.
Danielle M.
Subjects tutored: Reading/Writing/Literacy, Organization, Special Education
Danielle, originally from Miami has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts. She has also received a Master of Science degree in Special Education K-12 from Nova Southeastern University. Throughout her educational career she has created reading, writing and math curriculum that uniquely integrated both multi-modal approaches while matching students’ specific learning requirements. She is trained in Balanced Literacy as well as many multi-sensory models. Danielle is committed to helping her students become successful through her innovative and creative approaches to teaching and learning.
David N.
Subjects tutored: Test Prep, History
David hails from Westport, Connecticut and attended Yale University, where he majored in history. Upon graduating in 2007 he moved to Los Angeles to work in the film industry and tutor independently, but after growing bored of the unending monotony of perfect sunsets and beautiful blue skies, he returned to the East Coast and joined Teach for America. David has spent the last two years teaching 7th and 8th grade Humanities at the Bronx Mathematics Preparatory School, where he also coaches the chess team as well as earning a Masters Degree in Adolescent Social Studies from Fordham University. He will continue his studies in Educational Policy this fall at Columbia University's prestigious Teachers College. In his free time, David enjoys reading, following politics, and watching the Mets lose.
David S.
Subjects tutored: Math,Test Prep
Originally from Bethesda, Maryland, David never thought he’d wind up living in New York City. He still doesn’t, but Hoboken’s proximity to Manhattan allows him to experience it nearly every day. Over the last several years, he has tutored adults and children in Spanish and math. David studied abroad in Italy while in college, and has also traveled in Spain. He began learning Spanish at a very young age, attending an elementary school that offered an immersion program. David is a graduate of Middlebury College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Italian and a minor in Sociology. His two great passions are baseball and writing. David also enjoys juggling, playing squash, and spending time with friends and family.
David S.
Subjects tutored: Math, English, Test Prep
In the fourteen years David has been a tutor and teacher, he has made boring subjects interesting, interesting subjects fascinating, and standardized tests less daunting. He learned how as a Philosophy major at the University of Chicago. There, he trudged through sub-zero temperatures just to take classes in the psychology of gesture and European silent film. He brings that same dedication to his students and their individual strengths and weaknesses. He has tutored algebra, geometry, writing, history, and critical reading as well as the alphabet soup of standardized tests (SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE, COOP, and HSPT). David also went to graduate school for art, at California College of the Arts, so when he's not making art, he's seeing movies, riding his bike, watching football, or cooking with whatever he finds at his local farmers market.
David V.
Subjects tutored: English
David has been teaching English and Composition at the high school and college level since 2008. As a teacher and tutor he helps make complex ideas and procedures understandable for his students. He connects with his students on a personal level, helping them master challenging concepts and skills in order to become better readers, writers, and learners. David has a Master's degree in English from Stony Brook University, a Bachelor's degree in English from Stony Brook University, New York State English teaching certification, and an advanced certificate in composition theory and teaching. He currently lives in Brooklyn, teaches in Nassau County, and tutors students in Nassau County and New York City.
Dhonielle C.
Subjects tutored: English (K-12), Math (K-8), Test Prep, Organizational Skills
Dhonielle was born and raised in the Washington, DC area and graduated from Wake Forest University with a BA in English. She has an MA in Children's and Young Adult Literature from Hollins University and she has strong aspirations to become a successful children's book author. She taught middle school and high school English to pre-professional ballerinas at The Kirov Academy of Washington, DC. Additionally, she has a background in academic curriculum development for an elementary school enrichment program called The National Young Scholars Program. Before moving to New York City to pursue a second masters degree in Writing for Children at The New School, Dhonielle taught third and fourth grade language arts at Westminster School in the Washington, DC suburbs. In her free time, she enjoys reading children's books, cooking, traveling abroad and collecting vintage clothing and jewelry.
Doug P.
Subjects tutored: Mathematics, Test Prep
Doug, a native New Yorker, graduated from the Collegiate School in 2007 before attending Brown University, where he received a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and Literary Arts. Throughout his time at college, during which he discovered his passion for teaching, he worked with fellow Brown students as a calculus tutor as well as with local high-school students as a certified SAT classroom instructor. As a tutor, Doug is very invested in the success of his students, and gets to know each of them on a personal level. In addition to math, Doug loves writing fiction, playing basketball and drawing; in the future he hopes to resume his education in pursuit of a career in medicine.
Emily F.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12, Test Prep)
Originally from Chicago, Emily is happily pursuing a degree in mathematics with a minor in math education from New York University. She specializes tutoring in mathematics and SAT prep as well as chemistry and physics. Emily volunteers in the America Reads program as a tutor and for Lets Get Ready, a SAT prep program for teenagers who cannot afford private tutoring. In her spare time, she dances and enjoys exploring this wonderful city.
Erica S.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12)
Erica hails from our nation's capital and is a graduate of the University of Michigan. She currently works as a designer in New York City. Having always excelled in math, Erica enjoys the practical application of geometry and algebra in her designs. Similarly, she infuses her passion for art into her tutoring sessions. Erica explored the idea of teaching as an art form during an independent study in college.
Erin S.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12, Test Prep)
A Little Neck native, Erin has taught high school math in the Long Island community for over 4 years at Roslyn and Oceanside. The oldest of three sisters, Erin grew up with a passion for teaching. After graduating Boston University with a bachelor’s degree in communications, she went on to earn a master’s in math education from Hofstra University. As a tutor, Erin brings an in-depth knowledge of the high school Regents math curriculum and an ability to pin point student’s specific conceptual challenges. In addition to a love for teaching, Erin is also an avid athlete having participated in half marathons and triathlons.
Erica S.
Subjects tutored: mathematics, study skills, test prep
After graduating from the University of Rochester in 2007 with a BA in Psychology and minor in Music, Erica spent four years working in cancer research at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and at a summer camp for children with learning and behavioral difficulties. After a four-year break from school, Erica is currently working toward a School-Clinical Child Psychology doctorate at Yeshiva University. She loves traveling, food, music, and running around New York.
Esther G.
Subjects tutored: English (K-12, Test Prep, Writing Skills), History, Hebrew Studies
A graduate of Yale University with a degree in Linguistics, and of Yeshiva University with a Masters in Medieval Jewish History, Esther spent a number of years teaching Middle School and High School in New York, London, and Israel. She is passionate about teaching and now works as a creative writing coach and full-time tutor specializing in English, History, Writing, Hebrew Studies, and SAT and ACT test-prep.
Francine C.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12, Test Prep)
Francine holds a BS and an MA in Mathematics Education from New York University. Francine is a high school math teacher and currently works at the Brooklyn School for Collaborative Studies in Brooklyn, NY. She teaches Algebra, Advanced Algebra, and Statistics. For the past 8 years, she has privately tutored students in NYC who attend both public and private schools, and she has helped them to improve their understanding of math content and their Math standardized test scores. Francine is passionate about teaching math and is experienced in tutoring a wide range of students with varied learning abilities. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, reading, running in Central Park, and playing softball with her friends.
Gabriel H.
Subjects tutored: Spanish, French, English, History, Test Prep
Born and raised in Hoboken, NJ, Gabriel is an alumnus of Friends Seminary in Manhattan and a graduate of Yale University with a bachelor’s degree in Latin American Studies and a master’s degree in education. He taught history in the New Haven public school system for two years while also mentoring and coaching basketball. Gabriel currently lives in Brooklyn, where he spends time acting, playing piano, directing musicals, and dejectedly rooting for the New Jersey Nets.
Greg S.
Subjects tutored: English and Writing, Math, Verbal SAT and ACT, Spanish,
Greg is a Yale graduate in Music and Theater Studies with a passion for Spanish, writing, literature, and the arts. A fluent Spanish-speaker, Greg is a bit of a Spanish nerd and tends to get really excited about things like Spanish grammar, literature, pronunciation, and even accents. He lived in Buenos Aires for three and a half years working in the art and entertainment industries. Now that he is back in New York City, he continues to pursue a career as a performer and director. Greg has always enjoyed teaching and has experience as a vocal teacher, vocal coach, youth mentor, and tutor.
Hannah L.
Subjects tutored: Biology, Chemistry
Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, Hannah moved to Vermont in 2006 to attend Middlebury College and graduated cum laude with a BA in Biology. Hannah is passionate about all areas of biological research, and has spent several years cultivating her skills in the field. After spending a summer in the Costa Rican rainforest researching microbial soil communities, Hannah began a year-long independent senior thesis project on octopus vision, and now works as a clinical research assistant at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. In her free time, Hannah loves spending time outdoors hiking, backpacking, biking, riding her horse, and volunteering at a local therapeutic horseback riding facility.
Isabel E.
Subjects tutored: French, Study Skills
Born in New York City and raised on Long Island, Isabel has over seven years of experience in private education. She graduated from Hamilton College with her BA as a French major and art history minor. After three years of working with high school students in various roles at Darrow School, including French teacher and tutor of many subjects, she received her Masters in school leadership from Teachers College, Columbia University. Now a full-time tutor and yoga teacher, Isabel enjoys working with a variety of students, primarily in the humanities subjects, on study skills and the writing process. She enjoys getting to know each student as an individual and working with him or her to become a confident and empowered agent of his or her education by identifying and developing unique strengths and personalized strategies.
Irene L.
Subjects tutored: Spanish, English, French, History, Test Prep
Irene is from San Juan, Puerto Rico and just graduated from the Yale School of Drama where she received her masters in Acting. Before that, she went to Princeton University where she majored in Comparative Literature with a concentration in Spanish and French. As an undergraduate, she spent a semester in the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, and a summer in Paris studying French Literature of the 19th Century. She has tutored languages since high-school. When not tutoring or acting, Irene enjoys yoga, photography, writing, dance, film, traveling, and eating.
Jennifer L.
Subjects tutored: English, Test Prep
Jennifer is a passionate, innovative and reflective teacher who enjoys the challenge of tailoring her instruction to fit her students’ unique personalities and learning styles. Since 1998, she has taught middle and high school English, writing, study skills and art in New York City and Westchester. In 2005, she worked with a team of seven faculty members to establish the Bronx Center for Science and Mathematics, a school profiled in the PBS-featured documentary, “Whatever it Takes”. Jen spent three years teaching English and yearbook in a San Diego beach town, and came back, homesick (and freezing), last winter. She has a BA in literature and psychology from NYU’s Gallatin School and an MA in English education from Columbia University Teachers College, and is certified to teach middle and high school English and art. In her free time, Jennifer is most likely sewing, writing or taking pictures.
Jeremy E.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12, Test Prep)
Jeremy came to teaching through the New York City Teaching Fellows program after a career on Wall Street. He has a BA from Yale University and an MST from Pace. He taught Mathematics in New York City high schools for four years. Jeremy has a personal love of learning and discovery. He uses a storehouse of tips, tricks, and skills to help put difficult notions in terms that a student can use and understand. Jeremy enjoys listening to music (and building audio equipment from scratch), skiing, the company of dogs, and the deeper mysteries of the universe.
Jessica C.
Subjects tutored: Math
Jessica majored in Mathematics and minored in Secondary Education at Queens College. She is currently working on her Master’s Degree in Math Education at Brooklyn College. Jessica returns to Rye High School for her second year, where she teaches mathematics and enjoys sharing her love of learning with her students. During her free time, Jessica enjoys hiking, travelling, and volunteering.
Jessica T.
Subjects tutored: English, Test Prep, Spanish
An English major from Princeton University, Jessica is passionate about literature and theater. Originally from Sacramento, California, she moved to New York City to explore opportunities in dramaturgy and theater. As an undergraduate, Jessica studied abroad in Valparaíso, Chile, where she pursued her interests in Spanish and traveling. Jessica lives in Queens and enjoys improvising, knitting and hiking in her spare time.
Jonathan S.
Subjects tutored: Math, Test Prep
Jon received his BA in Mathematics from New York University with minors in Business Studies and Computer Applications and his MA in Pure Mathematics from Hunter College. He has been tutoring and teaching in different capacities since he was in high school, continuously adapting and refining his educational prowess. Born and raised in Brooklyn, he believes strongly in the Yankees and Giants. He enjoys music, plays the guitar and ukulele, while pretending to know the piano.
Jonathan W.
Subjects tutored: Test Prep, Mathematics
Originally from San Jose, California, Jonathan has been a tutor and teacher for nearly 10 years. As a student at Princeton University, he ran the school’s Writing Center and developed tutoring curricula to help undergraduate and graduate students at all stages of the writing process. After Jonathan graduated magna cum laude with a degree in mathematics and a minor in Chinese, he moved to Guangzhou, China, where he taught English, mathematics, film theory, and SAT prep to some of China’s brightest high school students. In his spare time, he loves writing and performing comedy, watching old movies, and talking to other people’s pets.
Joshua L.
Subjects tutored: Math, Science
Josh grew up in Great Neck, NY and now lives on the Upper West Side. He graduated from Ramaz and then from Columbia University with a degree in biochemistry and is now in the MD/PhD program at Columbia studying medicine and genetics. He has almost a decade of experience tutoring math and science and has been known to inspire his students to continue their studies in the sciences. During his free time, Josh is an avid NY sports fan and plays basketball weekly.
Joshua S.
Subjects tutored: Mathematics
After graduating from Emory University with a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Josh spent five years working as a computer programmer, developing pricing applications within the financial industry. Currently, he is pursuing a master's degree in Quantitative Methods and Modeling at the Zicklin School of Business at Baruch College. Josh has a long history of tutoring experience in mathematics and views tutoring as a great opportunity to help students find the confidence they need to master any give subject area. In his free time, Josh enjoys travelling, hiking, and playing sports.
Joy B.
Subjects tutored: English
After graduating magna cum laude from Bard College with a degree in creative writing and English literature, Joy moved to New York City to pursue a career in writing and education. As a Teach for America Corps member, she spent two years teaching 11th and 12th grade English in a Manhattan High School where she specialized in English Regents coaching and college essay writing. Currently, she is completing an MA in Education from CUNY Lehman as well as as an MFA in creative writing from The New School. She has served as an editorial staff member for various New York City literary magazines, including Conjunctions and, most recently, Lit. She has published short stories in various journals and has strong ambitions to become a successful novelist. In her free time, Joy loves writing, reading, dancing, practicing guitar, chess, and learning computer programming.
Katherine K.
Subjects tutored: not available
Born and raised on Long Island, Katherine has been teaching Spanish at her former high school in New Hyde Park for the last six years. Katherine graduated magna cum laude from The American University, majoring in Spanish Studies and Secondary Education in addition to acquiring her certification in Spanish Translation. She later earned a Masters Degree in TESOL from CUNY Queens College, graduating with honors. It was during her undergraduate studies that Katherine truly uncovered her passion for studying language and culture. Over the last eight years she has traversed the Spanish-speaking world collecting authentic resources to improve her teaching and to share with her students. Her most memorable travel experiences include living abroad in both Chile and Nicaragua. When she is not traveling or teaching, Katherine enjoys cooking and taking spinning classes.
Karen S.
Subjects tutored: Mathematics
A native of Long Island, Karen received her BA in Mathematics Education from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, with minors in both Psychology and Music. She is currently working towards her Masters at Hofstra University in Mathematics Education with a cognate in Gifted Education. Along with being a student, Karen is also a substitute teacher in the West Islip and East Islip School Districts as well as a private tutor. She has experience teaching and tutoring Algebra II/Trigonometry, Geometry, and Algebra I. In her spare time, Karen works at Robert Moses State Park in the Revenue department. Her hobbies include singing, playing the piano, going to Broadway shows, and the New York Mets.
Keith M.
Subjects tutored: English
Keith has taught high school English for 11 years – the last nine at Cold Spring Harbor High School. Innovative and motivational, Keith enjoys helping students become better critical thinkers, closer readers and sharper writers. A former crossword puzzle editor and sports writer, Keith has a penchant for all things words and is a self-proclaimed “word nerd.” Keith has a master’s degree in Creative Writing from Queens College and a bachelor’s degree from Cortland University, where he was the editor in chief of the school newspaper and earned a summer internship at Mad Magazine. In addition to loving reading and writing, Keith can often be found running the hills of Northport and performing Improvisational Comedy in local theaters.
Laura C.
Subjects tutored: English (K-12, Test Prep)
Laura was raised in Bethesda, MD and at 18 moved to Manhattan to attend Barnard College. After obtaining a B.A. in English and Dance, Laura worked as a middle school English and Humanities teacher in Morningside Heights through the Urban Teaching Fellows program and tutored writing and test prep for Private Prep. In 2008, Laura moved to Washington, DC to pursue her master’s degree in English Literature at Georgetown where she graduated with highest honors. She simultaneously taught online writing courses for the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, and worked as a Graduate Associate at Georgetown’s teaching center. In June 2010, Laura entered the publishing world as a book editor for St. Martin’s Press and is thrilled to have the opportunity to continue working with Private Prep students!
Laura Y.
Subjects tutored: English, French
Laura grew up in Baltimore and graduated from Yale University with a Bachelor’s degree in French and English. During college, she was active in tutoring programs that served New Haven public schools students. She also spent two summers in Paris and Avignon studying 20th-century French literature. After graduating, Laura moved to Asia, where she taught English for two years in Taiwan and Thailand through the Princeton in Asia fellowship program. Upon moving back to the United States, she returned to Baltimore, where she taught English Language Arts at Learning Inc., an alternative middle school for city school students who had not found success in traditional school environments. Beyond teaching and tutoring, Laura enjoys rock climbing, knitting, and lightweight backpacking.
Lauren B.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12, Test Prep), Biology, Chemistry, Physics
A math and science tutor throughout high school and college, Lauren is excited to now work with Private Prep students. A graduate of Yale University, Lauren has always had a love of math and science that she combines with her passion for theater as a lighting designer. She is currently working on a few small productions in the New York area while sharing her knowledge for the sciences as a tutor. Lauren enjoys breaking down scientific concepts and explaining them in simple steps with the hope that her love for science becomes contagious.
Lauren P.
Subjects tutored: Biology, Anatomy and Physiology and Genetics
A native of Long Island, Lauren attended Hofstra University where she earned her BA with concentrations in Biology, Chemistry & Physician Assistant Studies. After graduation, Lauren accepted a position at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in a molecular biology research lab. In 2007 she joined the New York City Teaching fellows where she simultaneously taught High School Biology and earned her Master’s degree in Secondary Education from the City College of New York. She has enjoyed tutoring high school students in Biology for several years. In her spare time she enjoys taking trips with her family, including her husband Robert and her son Nathan.
Leore F.
Subjects tutored: Math, Test Prep, Study Skills
Leore, originally from New Jersey, graduated Summa Cum Laude from Emory University with a BA in psychology and then earned her MA in Social-Organizational Psychology at Columbia University. After attaining her MA she participated in a yearlong community service program in Israel, where she taught middle school and high school students Math and English. Following her time in Israel, Leore worked at Academic Study Associates for three years where she coordinated academic programming for high school students. Leore is now returning to graduate school to attain her doctorate degree in School-Clinical Child Psychology. In her free time Leore enjoys travelling, reading, trying new restaurants, exploring NYC, and spending time with family and friends.
Lindsay D.
Subjects tutored: Chemistry
Lindsay graduated magna cum laude from SUNY Stony Brook with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and more recently with a Masters of Arts in Teaching for Chemistry and General Science. Science has always been Lindsay’s passion and was inspired to study Chemistry after taking General Chemistry as a college freshman. Between her undergraduate and graduate career, Lindsay worked as a chemist at Estee Lauder Companies in Melville, New York. In addition to her love for chemistry, Lindsay enjoys skiing in the winter months and kayaking in the summer months.
Mallory E.
Subjects tutored: not available
Mallory grew up in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Tennessee, and now resides in Brooklyn. She graduated from Vassar College with honors in Urban Studies and Education, and has tutored and mentored elementary to high school students in a range of subjects and settings throughout the last seven years. After graduation Mallory worked at the wonderful Brooklyn Botanic Garden doing hands-on environmental education and gardening with kids and families, and currently teaches elementary schoolers at a Success Academy charter school. Mallory loves modern dance, yoga, local histories, riding her bike and making art, and is excited to share her passion for learning with other young folks.
Marc R.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12)
Marc hails from Bethesda, MD and has worked with students in a variety of settings over the past 8 years. A graduate of Haverford College with a BA in Psychology, Marc currently works as a substitute teacher in Brooklyn. Marc specializes in helping student improve their math skills and believes anybody can enjoy math with the proper education and mindset. When not tutoring, Marc plays tennis, runs, and roots for the perennially mediocre, but always entertaining, Washington Wizards.
Marianna F.
Subjects tutored: Test Prep, English (K-12)
Originally from Moscow, Russia Marianna was raised in New York City. After graduating from Stuyvesant High School, she attended college at The George Washington University, where she received a BA in Theater and Russian Literature & Language. Marianna returned to New York City after graduation and became a Teaching Fellow with the New York City Teaching Fellows Program. She received her MS from LIU in TESOL and worked as a tutor and elementary school teacher. She is currently pursuing an Ed.M in Counseling Psychology at Columbia University and hopes to someday open up her own school. Marianna enjoys cooking, dancing, art, languages, theater and generally anything remotely creative!
Martin M.
Subjects tutored: Biology, Chemistry
Born in Brooklyn, but a citizen of the world, Martin is an avid traveler, hiker, bicyclst, photographer, and scuba diver who sees the science in everything he enjoys and who has a passion for sharing it with others. He graduated from the University of Missouri with bachelor's degrees in Biology and Russian and earned his Master's in Science Education as a New York City Teaching Fellow at Pace University. He taught chemistry and biology in the New York City public school system for 7 years. In the fall of 2011, he returned to his research roots and rejoined old colleagues, exploiting a powerful, proprietary compound and cell screening technique, which is being used to identify fragrance modulators in the improvement of consumer goods and in the pursuit of a cure for AIDS.
Matthew K.
Subjects tutored: Test Prep, Biology, Chemistry, Math
Proud to hail from Connecticut, that great neighbor to the northeast, Matthew has spent 4 years there tutoring an amalgam of subjects: SAT, SSAT, ISEE, ACT, Biology, Chemistry, and Math. Before that he spent a few years working for Let's Get Ready, a non-profit specializing in SAT prep for financially restricted students. He really enjoys fostering his students' enthusiasm in math and the sciences. Matthew holds a BA in Biology and a Minor in Voice from Princeton University. In addition to tutoring, Matthew plays the piano and is currently pursuing his love of performing in the NY theater scene.
Melanie C.
Subjects tutored: English (Writing Skills, Test Prep, College Essays), Spanish, French, Organizational Skills
Since joining Private Prep in 2008, Melanie has quickly developed a fantastic reputation. She brings a high level of academic expertise and terrific energy to her sessions working with students on their organizational and language skills. Additionally, Melanie has developed expertise in the verbal sections of high school admissions tests including the ISEE, SSAT and SHSAT. Melanie was born in St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands and moved to Hawaii when she was 9 years old. She graduated Stanford with a BA in Japanese and an MA in Communication. Prior to joining Private Prep, Melanie worked as a tutor and English teacher around the globe, including in Spain and Japan. She taught English to young, non-native speakers, using written, visual, and auditory cues to help them understand word pronunciation and meaning. Melanie is fluent in Spanish, highly proficient in French, and comfortable with Japanese. In addition to being a passionate teacher, Melanie is an actress, dancer/singer and writer.
Michael B.
Subjects tutored: Latin
Originally from Tennessee, Michael began tutoring and teaching Classics as a junior in high school. After graduating magna cum laude from Duke University with a degree in Theatre and Classical Civilizations, Michael moved to Manhattan where he continues to act and write professionally. Michael has tutored all levels of Latin in New York and has also independently taught classes on Cicero, Ovid, and Vergil through one of New York’s most prestigious independent schools. In his spare time, Michael is an avid card player and fan of Duke basketball.
Michael C.
Subjects tutored: Math Test Prep, Chemistry, Math
Michael graduated from The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in 2011 with a Master's in Chemical Engineering. He has been passionate about teaching since high school, where he tutored math and science regents preparation for families who could not afford private instruction. He is currently conducting research with regards to drug delivery into the central nervous system and one day plans to study medicine in the field of pediatrics. Michael is a lover of all sports, a casual chess player, and frequent trumpeter.
Nadiya K.
Subjects tutored: Math Test Prep, Mathematics
After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Psychology from Kyiv National Linguistic University in Ukraine, Nadiya moved to New York, where she graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in International Criminal Justice from John Jay College. Currently she is completing her Masters Degree in International Law and Human Rights at New York University and is volunteering at the United Nations Population Fund. Always being a passion of hers, Nadiya started her tutoring career back in Kyiv, giving private lessons in English, German, and Mathematics. She currently works as a Teacher’s Assistant and tutor at John Jay College in addition to her work with Private Prep. In her spare time, she enjoys dancing, tourism, playing piano and reading.
Rachel E.
Subjects tutored: English (K-12, Test Prep, College Essays), Spanish
Rachel originally hails from Rhode Island, and came to New York by way of Yale University, where she received a B.A. in Latin American Studies. Since graduating, she has worked for two different companies as a freelance editor, working specifically on college and graduate school admissions essays, as well as worked as a tutor in New Haven. A self-confessed grammar freak, Rachel loves language and helping students find the perfect words for what they want to say. Thanks to study abroad stints in Spain, Mexico, and Brazil, she is also fluent in Spanish and proficient in Portuguese. Her night job is pursuing a career as a singer and songwriter.
Rachelle H.
Subjects tutored: Mathematics
A native of Long Island, New York, Rachelle earned her BA in Mathematics/Actuarial Science at Binghamton University, where she graduated magna cum laude. Originally intended to pursue a career as an actuary, she has had work experience in leading accounting and insurance firms before and after graduation. Rachelle is currently working towards her MS Ed in Secondary Mathematics Education at Hofstra University in order to become a math teacher, grades 7-12.
Robert G.
Subjects tutored: English (K-12, Test Prep)
Robert is a graduate of Middlebury College with a double major in English and Theater. Having worked as an actor, director and producer in New York City, Robert left the world of theater and joined the NYC Teaching Fellows program as a high school English teacher. Now in his seventh year at Eleanor Roosevelt H.S., Robert teaches American Literature, and beginning and advanced Film and Video to all grades. Over the past four summers, he has been teaching an intensive film-making workshop with the Tribeca Film Institute for the DOE Summer Arts Institute.
Ryan M.
Subjects tutored: English, History, Mandarin, Test Prep
After graduating from Brown, Ryan spent four years in China teaching English as a second language and American culture courses to high school and university students. He returned to the US in 2004 to pursue a masters at Harvard, went back to China in 2006 for another year, and is currently a PhD candidate in History and East Asian Languages and Cultures at Columbia. In addition to ESL and history courses, he has taught writing, research, and analytical skills to students at every grade level. He lives in Brooklyn with his wife and when time allows enjoys traveling, rock climbing, and competing in triathlons.
Sabrina M.
Subjects tutored: Biology, Statistics, English, History
Sabrina is passionate about helping her students excel in their scientific endeavors, as she is both a working scientist and a student herself. Currently in the process of completing her Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology from Columbia University, Sabrina will be applying to doctoral programs this fall. When she is not in class, Sabrina works as a Bioacoustic Analyst at the American Museum of Natural History, where she monitors marine mammal vocalizations off the coast of Angola as part of the Wildlife Conservation Society's Ocean Giants Program. Before she started working at the Museum, Sabrina was a Teaching Fellow at the Bronx Zoo. Sabrina graduated from the Chapin School in 2002 and then attended Skidmore College, where she received a Bachelor's Degree in Art History. Sabrina enjoys singing, dancing, horseback riding and playing with her adopted pets, which include a dog, a Bearded Dragon lizard and an Amazon parrot.
Shalini S.
Subjects tutored: Math
Shalini, originally from right outside of Syracuse, New York, received her bachelor's degree from SUNY Geneseo in mathematics and elementary education. Continuing her education, Shalini received a masters in mathematics education from the Teacher's College at Columbia University and is currently enrolled in a doctoral program. Her experience in tutoring ranges from elementary to college level mathematics. Shalini has been teaching for five years in Westchester County. She is currently teaching at a middle school where she also serves as the math department head. Beyond teaching, Shalini has a passion for running, and enjoys competing in half marathons, marathons and triathlons.
Sherry H.
Subjects tutored: Math (K-12, Test Prep)
Sherry graduated from Binghamton University's School of Management, Summa Cum Lade, with a double concentration in Finance and Leadership and Consulting. After college Sherry worked as an internal auditor at Protiviti Inc., a business risk consulting firm located in New York City. Sherry Habibian continued her education and graduated from Hofstra University with a Masters in Mathematics education, grades 5 through 12. She taught at Plainview Old Bethpage school district and tutors Mathematics at all levels, including AP Statistics, AP Calculus, and SAT Math.
Stephanie M.
Subjects tutored: Test Prep, Chemistry, Biology, Math, English
Since moving to New York City five years ago, Stephanie has enjoyed tutoring a wide variety of subjects including chemistry, biology, mathematics, English language arts, and SAT prep. She studied biology and neuroscience at MIT before earning her Ph.D. in neuroscience at the University of Oxford, supported by a British Marshall Scholarship and a National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowship. Rather than pursue a career in academia, Stephanie chose instead to earn a Master of Music in Opera Performance from the Longy Conservatory in Cambridge, MA. In New York, she has performed several times with New York City Opera and sung in diverse venues from Carnegie Hall to Birdland.
Suzanne O.
Subjects tutored: Spanish
Born and raised in Nassau County, Suzanne has been a high school Spanish teacher at Herricks High School for over 14 years. Suzanne has an Advanced Certificate in Administration from Stony Brook University, a Masters degree in Secondary Education from Hofstra University, and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Spanish from SUNY at Cortland. Having lived and studied abroad in Spain and Costa Rica, she believes firmly in the notion that in order to empower ourselves and help others in our community, knowledge of Spanish is a must. She practices what she preaches, as she has raised her son Thomas (a.k.a. Tomasito) in a bilingual environment since the day he was born. Having tutored students for over 15 years, Suzanne brings the same enthusiasm and positive energy she uses in her classroom to her private students. When she is not teaching, Suzanne enjoys playing board games with her son (who somehow always seems to beat her), as well as kicking a ball outside in the park.
Tarif C.
Subjects tutored: Mathematics & Physics
Tarif has lived and studied in New York City his entire life. He attended Stuyvesant High School, and graduated with a BA in Mathematics from New York University. He will be starting at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in August 2011. Mathematics and the sciences are his greatest academic passions and he hopes to demonstrate this enthusiasm while tutoring his students. In addition, Tarif enjoys listening to music, dancing, volunteering, playing basketball, and making people laugh.
Tommy C.
Subjects tutored: Test Prep, English, Math, French
A graduate of Yale University and off-broadway performer, Tommy uses his creative nature to make academic material relatable. Prior to joining Private Prep, he honed his teaching and test prep skills with two other New York area tutoring companies. Tommy is passionate about boosting students' scores on all manner of standardized tests and improving their writing skills. In addition to tutoring, he has acted in numerous productions off-broadway in New York and is a member of the resident acting company at the Flea Theater in Tribeca. Tommy is also passionate about sustainable organic farming and music; he plays guitar and ukulele.
Tyler H.
Subjects tutored: Test Prep
Raised in North Carolina, Tyler recently received a BA in Sociology from Harvard College. While at Harvard, he served as a student tutor and was also involved with writing and directing for theater and television. An alumnus of the Hasty Pudding Theatricals, Tyler is currently studying improv and comedy writing at the Upright Citizen's Brigade Theater, as well as working part time at the Colbert Report. Raised in the home of two lifetime educators, Tyler understands the value of hiring outside help for a child's education. A fan of (a) English, (b) math, and (c) multiple choice Tyler is excited to be tutoring students and helping them achieve their goals. In his free time he likes to play squash and golf.
Wesley C.
Subjects tutored: Mathematics, ELA, Writing, Humanities, ISEE
Originally from West Palm Beach, Wesley graduated cum laude from the University of Florida with a BS in Psychology and minors in Classical Studies and Business Administration. He also holds a MA in Sustainable Development and Environmental Policy from New York University. While studying at NYU, he participated in the America Reads program as a middle school classroom tutor and worked individually with students as an independent tutor before joining Private Prep after completing his degree. As a tutor, Wesley commits to connecting with his students and discovering new ways to make them enthusiastic to learn.
