Baker Top Tier Test Prep: SAT, ACT, PSAT, LSAT, And GRE
About
I have over a decade of experience leading high school, college, and post-graduate students to meet and exceed their standardized testing goals and gain acceptance to their dream schools! Every student with whom I have worked has shown meaningful improvement in their scores. I am a former principal of an academically intense college preparatory urban high school and now work full-time as a management consultant in higher education. I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to my tutoring and receive numerous return clients and referrals.
Highlights
Specialties
Grade level
Type of math
Reviews
Brenda C.
DL
Ian S.
Elise W.
Ava C.
Will D.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I start by introducing myself and my experience, then ask about what brings them to tutoring. I'll ask for relevant context, previous experience with the exam (and scored or practice scores, if available), and anticipated needs. We'll also set some goals together - long-range ones, such as a final score, as well as interim goals (re: pacing, growth, etc.). We'll establish a schedule and a rough scope and sequence of topics we need to cover. Based on the direction I get from this conversation, I'll usually start with a small diagnostic assessment that targets one of the high-priority areas we identified to cover and use that data to inform the concepts we work on during our initial session(s).
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a former high school principal and high school teacher, as well as a leadership coach for high school teachers and principals in high-needs settings. I am also an experienced test prep and writing tutor for high school, college, and post-graduate students with a strong track record of success. As a higher education consultant working with universities, my clients have included top tier research institutions, Ivy League schools, state school systems, graduate programs, law schools, and academic medical centers.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I offer flexible rates and strive to meet budget needs. Please inquire directly regarding pricing.
How did you get started teaching?
I was recruited by Teach For America in 2009 and have been with it ever since!
What types of students have you worked with?
I primarily work with high school, college, and post-graduate students. My teaching experience started in the urban corps, where many of my students were English language learners and first-generation college-goers. In four years of online test preparation, I've had students of all backgrounds, ranging from high school freshmen looking to earn scholarships through their PSAT exams to working adults hoping to enter graduate school or law school.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I am an avid outdoor rock climber and spend most of my free time hanging off a cliff! I love outdoor adventures.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Real teaching experience is essential, and insight into the higher education landscape is a huge asset. After 13 years in education, I understand how students think - the mistakes you make, the "a-ha!" moments, the threads that string things together and make them logical and memorable. I also know how admissions committees think - that's an added benefit to you!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are your goals - and why are these your goals? Are there particular numbers you need to be competitive for admissions or qualify for scholarships? Having concrete, meaningful goals will keep you motivated when the work gets challenging!
What is your starting point? Do you have a practice score or a baseline from a previous test? Knowing your strengths and weaknesses will help you and your tutor develop a plan that's tailored to your learning needs.
How much time are you prepared to devote to studying? Tutoring works best when you're able to do some "homework" in between sessions; the more you practice between meetings, the more you'll get out of our time together - and the bigger your gains!