Alan

I have been tutoring since 2013. I have a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a PhD in economics, both from Rutgers University.

Tutoring style:

Anyone can learn how to succeed on the SAT or ACT. A lot of people think that doing well on standardized tests is some kind of built-in skill, but that’s just not how it works. No one is born knowing how to navigate a tricky word problem under time pressure. Just like no one gets handed a college scholarship for basketball without practice, no one aces these tests without putting in the work. That’s why, when I meet a new student, I focus on building confidence. If you don’t believe you can solve the problem, chances are, you won’t.

Test prep isn’t just about drilling problems, it’s about understanding where each student’s struggles are coming from. My first step is getting to know my students: how they approach problems, where their strengths lie, and what’s tripping them up. From there, it’s about developing strategies that work for them. Whether that’s pacing, recognizing question types, or brushing up on key math concepts, I tailor every session to help students not just memorize rules, but actually understand the material and what the question is asking for, as well as feel equipped to tackle it under pressure.

Success story:

One student came to me with a clear goal: get a high enough math score on the SAT to place out of college math. She was a strong student overall but had always struggled with standardized testing, especially under time constraints. We worked together on pacing strategies, breaking down the most common question types, and reinforcing her algebra and geometry fundamentals so she could move quickly and confidently. After a few months of consistent effort, her score jumped significantly, and more importantly, it was high enough for her to bypass the required math courses at her college. She was thrilled. For her, it wasn’t just about the number on the score report, it was about knowing she could walk into college ready for the next challenge.

Hobbies and interests:

• Building Lego sets (the boxes say ages 10-99, so I’m below the median age)
• Collecting trading cards (not to brag, but I do have a Base Set Shadowless Charizard)
• Weightlifting (which is slightly less cool than the previous two)