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Neurodivergent Student Support, Academic Coaching, & Test Prep
Allen E.

4.9 (587 ratings)

2,834 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee
Hourly Rate: $240
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Response time: 2 hours

About Allen

Bio

Hi, I'm Allen! I'm a perfect-scoring test prep expert, academic tutor, and mentor with over 15 years of experience helping students build skills, confidence, and lasting success. I specialize in PSAT, SAT, and ACT preparation for neurodivergent students, particularly those with dyslexia, ADHD, and autism.

Reading speed, working memory, attention, and time management can affect standardized test performance, even when students understand the material. I teach practical, individualized...

Hi, I'm Allen! I'm a perfect-scoring test prep expert, academic tutor, and mentor with over 15 years of experience helping students build skills, confidence, and lasting success. I specialize in PSAT, SAT, and ACT preparation for neurodivergent students, particularly those with dyslexia, ADHD, and autism.

Reading speed, working memory, attention, and time management can affect standardized test performance, even when students understand the material. I teach practical, individualized strategies for navigating passages, recognizing question types, managing time, and approaching challenging questions with confidence. My goal is to help students demonstrate what they know and develop tools they can use independently.

Academic success is about more than scores and grades. I support young people in developing confidence, motivation, self-advocacy, organization, and independence. My goal is to help students recognize their strengths, navigate challenges, and feel empowered to shape their futures.

For parents, supporting a neurodivergent student can be complicated. I help parents better understand their child's learning needs, navigate academic challenges, encourage independence, and develop practical strategies for supporting progress at home.

I graduated from Smith College with a Bachelor's degree in Chinese and received extensive training with one of the country's leading test prep companies. Throughout my career, I've focused on personalized instruction that respects each student's strengths and learning differences.

Whether we're preparing for a standardized test, strengthening literacy skills, or building confidence and independence, I meet students where they are and help them move forward with the tools to succeed.

Read more

Education

Smith College, Northampton, MA
B.A. in East Asian Language and Lit

Additional Languages

Spanish

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $240
  • Rate details: Sessions not cancelled within 24 hours before the scheduled time will be charged the cost of the session.
  • Lesson cancellation: 24 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 6/28/2015

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Approved Subjects

ACT English

ACT English

The ACT English section tests knowledge of specific grammar rules and rhetorical skills. I can teach you the 15-20 specific grammar and punctuation rules you need to know in order to maximize your score on this section. I provide detailed notes with examples and use authentic test materials for practice. Mastering the ACT English section is a great way to boost your overall ACT score, since this section requires the least amount of specialized knowledge of the four sections of the ACT.
ACT Math

ACT Math

The ACT Math section is a comprehensive review of math concepts you may have learned from early elementary school through junior high and high school, so the earlier you begin to review the better! Short on time? I can guide you through the most important methods and strategies to master, and provide timing and pacing strategies to help you make the most out of the time you have left before your official test.
ACT Reading

ACT Reading

The ACT Reading section is much more fast-paced than the SAT Reading. It measures your ability to quickly read 4 medium-length passages and answer 10 questions per passage. I can share tips and strategies for recognizing correct and incorrect answers, and proven methods for tackling every question type. Your score on ACT Reading depends not only on mastery of question types, but also on reading speed and vocabulary knowledge.
ACT Science

ACT Science

The ACT Science section may, at first, seem overwhelming. I know from experience that you do not have to be a "science person" in order to get a great ACT Science score. I can teach you how to decipher the science passages, charts, and graphs more quickly and easily. Improving your score on ACT Science is less about deeply comprehending science topics and more about finding the data the questions ask for and analyzing the answer choices.
Algebra 1

Algebra 1

If math has never been your favorite subject, look no further. I can meet you where you are and use your own Algebra I textbook to guide you step-by-step through the concepts you need to master in order to succeed in Algebra I and beyond. If you have concept gaps from previous math classes, I can help supply the missing knowledge in order to boost your understanding of how Algebra works, and help you get even the tougher problems correct!
Algebra 2

Algebra 2

I have tutored Algebra II students with great success for over ten years. Often the leap from Algebra I and/or Geometry into Algebra II can present a challenge to students. I use the students' own textbooks and a wide array of materials, which I have collected over the years, for practice to reinforce key concept areas.
ASVAB

ASVAB

I tutor several sections of the ASVAB, including Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, Arithmetic Reasoning, and Mathematics Knowledge. I have worked with many ASVAB students to help improve their scores on these sections. I can share with you the specific tips and strategies you need to get your scores where you need them to be.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

I have worked with children ages 5 to 19 with autism for many years, both as a tutor and as a respite provider. Every child with autism is unique, and I bring sensitivity to each student's unique strengths and challenges. I adapt my lessons to meet my students where they are at, whether that is modifying the environment to provide higher or lower stimulation, or using a different approach when explaining a concept. I love working with both children and adults on the spectrum.
Bar Mitzvah

Bar Mitzvah

I have helped many students through their Bar and Bat Mitzvah preparation process. I help students learn how to chant their Torah portion as well as the prayers. I have worked with dyslexic students preparing for their Bar and Bat Mitzvah and adapted the learning process in a way that makes sense for them. I work with each student's unique strengths and challenges to make the experience enjoyable and fun.
Chinese

Chinese

I have a bachelor's degree from Smith College of Northampton, Massachusetts, in Chinese Language and Literature. I took four consecutive years of Chinese language (Mandarin) at the college level, and studied Chinese literature in translation. I am a passionate teacher of beginning and intermediate Chinese language, helping students to improve their communication level in all four areas of Chinese: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. From my experience of learning Chinese, I know how important it is to have a tutor helping you along the way with issues including but not limited to correct pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, and speaking practice. I am a capable, enthusiastic guide for students on their journey to mastering Mandarin Chinese.
Dyslexia

Dyslexia

I have been a dyslexia tutor for several years. I was trained in the Barton system of Reading and Spelling for dyslexia, which is part of the broader Orton-Gillingham multisensory approach. I have helped many dyslexic students successfully complete all 10 levels of the program over a period of 1-3 years. I love working with students in a long-term context such as that because of the rapport that develops between us. Many of my students have also been diagnosed with ADHD and/or on the autism spectrum, and I always adapt my lessons to each student's needs and learning styles.
Elementary (K-6th)

Elementary (K-6th)

I have worked with elementary students in an after-care after-school setting, helping students 12 and under with a wide range of academics and homework. I have always possessed a natural talent for phonics, and I strive to find ways to make the learning process fun for kids depending on their developmental stage and on each child's unique set of needs and challenges.
Elementary Math

Elementary Math

I have taught elementary math both one-on-one and in a classroom setting. It is extremely rewarding to me to help give younger students a firm grounding in the basic principles of arithmetic and basic number concepts that will carry them through subsequent years of math classes. I readily adapt my teaching style and curriculum to suit the needs and individual learning styles of each child.
English

English

Whether a student is struggling in English literature or composition, I am able to work with the student to maximize their potential and improve academic performance. I have also worked with adult learners of English as a Second Language with great results for over ten years. A native speaker of English with an acquired proficiency in various other languages, I am familiar with the needs and challenges of language learners of all ages. I strive to make the learning process engaging, effective, and efficient. Whatever the student's goal, I am here to help him/her meet and exceed expectations.
ESL/ESOL

ESL/ESOL

I am a native speaker of English with excellent grammar and communication skills. I have more than five years of experience tutoring students in ESL/ESOL. I have taught students individually and in groups of eight or more in a classroom setting, specializing in English for Latinos. I am sensitive to the needs of ESL/ESOL learners of various nationalities, having worked with students from many different countries, including adults from Korea, Japan, China, Peru, and Mexico. Depending on where you are on your journey to learn English, I can teach you the basics or take you to the next level in gaining English fluency. I speak English, Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese, so I am familiar with the unique needs of language learners.
Executive Functioning

Executive Functioning

I have made it my personal mission to discover the best tools and strategies to improve Executive Functioning for both children and adults. As someone who struggled with Executive Functioning as a child, I have a lot of empathy for my students who go through similar struggles. I help students conquer time management, emotional regulation, organization, notetaking, and study skills.
Geometry

Geometry

I have helped Geometry students optimize their academic performance for over ten years. Although it builds on concepts from Pre-Algebra and Algebra, Geometry can be somewhat of a change for students because of the spatial concepts it presents, or due to the focus on logic and reasoning. I help students navigate the skills they need to learn in order to excel in Geometry.
Grammar

Grammar

I have always had a natural talent for grammar. I use my unflagging enthusiasm for grammar to help motivate students who are otherwise not interested in the subject. I work with students who need to improve their English grades, and ESL/ESOL students who are seeking mastery of Beginning, Intermediate, or Advanced concepts in English grammar.
GRE

GRE

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the daunting task of studying for the GRE, I can help. From breaking your plan of study into manageable pieces to practicing the concepts you need to improve on, I can guide you through the process of achieving your personal best GRE score. I tutor all sections of the GRE, including the essay, quant, and verbal.
Hebrew

Hebrew

As a self-taught Hebrew adept, I have helped dozens of students of Beginning to Intermediate Hebrew, whether preparing for a bar/bat mitzvah as a child or as an adult, or simply because of an interest in the language. I specialize in Biblical and liturgical Hebrew. I have helped students of Hebrew learn their aleph-bet and vowel markings, improve their pronunciation, and widen their vocabulary. My students boost their overall fluency in reading, understanding, and correctly pronouncing Hebrew words and sentences. In addition, I teach several styles of Torah chanting.
Japanese

Japanese

After completing my bachelor's degree in Chinese (Mandarin), I became interested in studying Japanese as well. Since then, I have studied Japanese through college coursework and independently for many years with the goal of becoming a professor of Japanese Language and Literature. As a learner of Japanese as a Second Language, I bring to my tutoring an intimate understanding of the learning process. I share with my students the methods of assimilating vocabulary and grammar concepts that I have found to be most useful and effective. Best of all, I convey a passion for the language that is contagious!
Literature

Literature

Whether a student is struggling in English literature or composition, I am able to work with the student to maximize their potential and improve academic performance. I earned a Chinese Language and Literature degree from Smith College that grounded me in the principles of literary analysis and critique across languages and cultures. The intensive writing involved in earning my degree prepared me to better assist students who need to polish their English essays, or who have to cope with written exams. I have also worked with adult learners of English as a Second Language with great results for over ten years. A native speaker of English with an acquired proficiency in various other languages, I am familiar with the needs and challenges of language learners of all ages. I strive to make the learning process engaging, effective, and efficient. Whatever their goals, I am here to help my students meet and exceed expectations.
Phonics

Phonics

Phonics has been a life-long interest for me ever since I was introduced to phonics through elementary school workbooks. I quickly mastered the many rules of vowel and consonant combinations, and I went on to become a spelling bee champion in the fourth grade. My fascination with words, spelling, and phonics has helped me become a patient teacher of phonics to students of all ages who struggle in this area. I enjoy working with students to improve their knowledge of the spoken and printed word. It gives me great pleasure to help learners learn the phonics skills they need in order to succeed.
Prealgebra

Prealgebra

I have taught elementary math both one-on-one and in a classroom setting. It is extremely rewarding to me to help give younger students a firm grounding in the basic principles of arithmetic and basic number concepts that will carry them through subsequent years of math classes. I readily adapt my teaching style and curriculum to suit the needs and individual learning styles of each child.
Proofreading

Proofreading

I am an expert proofreader who has proofread professionally for a marketing company. I have an excellent grasp of the conventions of English grammar and usage that are essential when proofreading copy for publication. I am a college graduate of Smith College of Massachusetts who has always had a knack for polishing prose. As evidenced by my perfect verbal and writing test scores, my proofreading style is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail.
PSAT

PSAT

I am a trained PSAT test prep professional with over 10 years of experience and a track-record of success helping students increase confidence and improve scores. As the lead tutor at a private test preparation tutoring company, I helped my students achieve some of the highest score increases nationwide. Using methods proven to optimize students' potential on all three sections of the PSAT, I teach students the specific concepts and strategies they need in order to do well on the test.
Reading

Reading

Reading has been my favorite pastime for as long as I can remember. When it comes to reading, I have tutored students found at every point on the spectrum: reluctant readers, avid reading enthusiasts like myself, and everyone in-between. I work closely with students to diagnose specific reading challenges and suggest methods of improving both reading speed and comprehension.
SAT Math

SAT Math

With the recent revisions to the test, SAT Math just got harder. Never fear! Whether you are close to your score goal or starting from scratch, I can share with you tips to make studying for this section less painful, leading you step-by-step through all of the math concepts and strategies you need to know in order to master SAT Math. I have helped students achieve some of the highest score improvements nationwide. Content knowledge and practice are the keys to cracking the SAT Math section.
SAT Reading

SAT Reading

The SAT Reading section is not as straight-forward as it used to be. Among other changes, the SAT Reading section now includes primary source documents, literature from the 1700s and 1800s, and charts, tables, and graphs along with science-based passages. The good news is there are still just 10-12 question types that repeat throughout the test, and it is more about analyzing the questions and answers than it is about deeply comprehending the material. I can help you better navigate this section and teach you the strategies you need to improve your Reading score.
SAT Writing

SAT Writing

The SAT Writing section now closely resemble the ACT English section, testing knowledge of specific grammar rules and rhetorical skills. I can teach you the 15-20 specific grammar and punctuation rules you need to know in order to maximize your score on this section. I teach tips and strategies, provide detailed notes with examples, and use authentic test materials for practice.
Spanish

Spanish

I am a native speaker of English with acquired fluency in Spanish. I completed five years of Spanish coursework, followed by a three-year immersion experience in the language. Using proven techniques, I show students how to make the best of their foreign language education and guide students through AP Spanish. I have also helped adult learners master Spanish through a communicative approach. As an avid language learner myself, I am intimately familiar with the most effective ways to boost fluency.
Spelling

Spelling

I was a fourth grade spelling champion who advanced to the district/regional level. I have coached spelling students who have made it to state. I customize my instruction to match the goals of the student and use a variety of approaches to the study of words so that the student remains motivated and excited without burning out. I know how daunting the many long lists of words can seem to students, so I break the task into manageable portions so that students have clear goals and a feeling of accomplishment. Spelling has always been a natural strength and a passion for me, and I transmit my enthusiasm for the subject to my students.
Study Skills

Study Skills

I have over ten years of experience helping students get organized in order to optimize their academic potential. Since each student is unique, organizational tools that work well for one student do not necessarily do the job for another. That is why I work collaboratively with each student to figure out how to incorporate the student's personality and learning styles into a total organizational solution that will meet his/her individual needs.
TOEFL

TOEFL

I am familiar with the TOEFL and the best methods in order to raise scores on this test. I use authentic, official test materials for diagnosis, practice, and gauging student progress. I have worked with TOEFL students from a wide variety of backgrounds and countries such as Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. I help students improve their performance on all sections of the TOEFL.
Vocabulary

Vocabulary

Using proven techniques, I empower students to be active learners of vocabulary, especially in preparation for the PSAT, SAT/ACT, GRE/GMAT, or TOEFL. Most students in either English or foreign language classes are required to assimilate a large amount of vocabulary which must be remembered for a long period of time. I show students how to access long-term memory rather than short-term memory to learn new words more efficiently and remember words longer.
Writing

Writing

I have more than ten years of experience as a writing tutor. I have helped both native speakers of English and foreign students who are learning English as a second language. I can help students who need to polish an essay to improve their grades, and I also know how to help students who need help organizing their ideas into complete, grammatical sentences and paragraphs.
Handwriting
SSAT
Allen E.'s Photo

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Response time: 2 hours

Ratings and Reviews

Rating

4.9 (587 ratings)
5 star
(572)
4 star
(8)
3 star
(2)
2 star
(2)
1 star
(3)

Reviews

ACT math

Allen had just one month to make a difference in my daughter’s ACT math score, and he absolutely delivered. He quickly pinpointed her weak areas, created a focused plan, and worked through them with clarity and precision. The results were incredible. Her math score jumped to a 30 from 27 and her superscore is now an impressive 34. We couldn’t be more thrilled with the progress she made in such a short time.

Sky, 21 lessons with Allen

So glad we selected Allen!

My son has learning differences, and we were looking for someone to help him become familiar with the digital PSAT, understand what to expect, and develop practical test-taking strategies. Allen did a wonderful job - was extremely organized, communicated promptly, and provided thoughtful summaries after each session. His approach was very positive and easy for my son to understand. My son feels well prepared and much more comfortable with the test. I would highly recommend Allen!

Mom, 4 lessons with Allen

very helpful

Allen and I went over the TOEFL speaking section with me. He exactly pointed out my weakness and gave me some solutions to it. He really strengthened my weakness. He also taught me how to strategize the speaking section.

Kaz, 1 lesson with Allen

Customized tutoring - exactly what was needed

Allen's approach was perfect for my daughter who was becoming over-anxious about the SAT. They worked together to make my daughter more comfortable with the types of problems she would encounter and it really helped! Allen recommended terrific resource books too so my daughter could continue to practice on her own. She felt much more confident on her latest SAT!

Judi, 8 lessons with Allen

Great at analyzing

Allen was good at analyzing where my daughter needs help and pinpointing strategies that she can work. It was a good experience.

Anna, 9 lessons with Allen

SAT

Allen showed her areas that she needs to work on and helped her with concepts where needed. She enjoyed the lessons and felt she became more comfortable with tests after she started the lessons. Thanks

Indira, 6 lessons with Allen

Highly Recommended

Allen was excellent in everyway. Pleasant to discuss the testing issues with and immediately performed an evaluation to ascertain problem areas. Very easy to work, with. We quickly established a schedule to accomplish improvement. Her depth of knowledge of the subjects was thorough and her ability to educate was solid (my daughter needed mostly math and science support for the ACT). I wish I'd have contacted Allen earlier as the time she spent with my daughter had a very positive impact. I would highly recommend her.

John, 5 lessons with Allen

Wonderful Tutor

Tamara's tutoring allowed me to flourish in my studying. She helped me to sort my way through information and techniques, which made things so much clearer. I am usually timid when it comes being tutored, but Tamara made me feel very comfortable and made it very easy to ask questions!

Lisa, 8 lessons with Allen

Tutor knowledgeable and patient!!

Tamara is very knowledgeable and patient with my son. My son really likes her and he respects her and learns quickly with her. We are very glad that we found her!

Tracey, 12 lessons with Allen

SAT Preparation. She made learning fun.

Tamara stepped right into our home easily coming alongside our son. She quickly assessed his needs and challenged him with making the most of every minute they were together working. She not only answered and explain questions, she made learning fun, and shared helpful, key strategies all along the way. Many thanks Tamara!

Natalie, 6 lessons with Allen
Hourly Rate: $240
Response time: 2 hours
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