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Harvard-Educated, PhD Tutor for Test Prep, STEM, & English
Thomas C.

5.0 (1,025 ratings)

3,708 hours tutoring

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Hourly Rate: $80
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Response time: 7 hours

About Thomas

Bio

Hi there! I am a scientist who also enjoys teaching English reading, writing, grammar, and syntax. Besides specializing in SAT and ACT prep, I have extensive experience helping students prepare for the CogAT and the SCAT (all levels). Moreover, I am an accomplished tutor for the SSAT, ISEE (all levels for both tests), and Catholic high-school entrance exams. Further subjects in which I specialize include Mathematics; General Chemistry; Organic Chemistry; English Writing, Grammar, and...

Hi there! I am a scientist who also enjoys teaching English reading, writing, grammar, and syntax. Besides specializing in SAT and ACT prep, I have extensive experience helping students prepare for the CogAT and the SCAT (all levels). Moreover, I am an accomplished tutor for the SSAT, ISEE (all levels for both tests), and Catholic high-school entrance exams. Further subjects in which I specialize include Mathematics; General Chemistry; Organic Chemistry; English Writing, Grammar, and Literature; and Introductory Biology, As a tutor, my style is informal and approachable, and I relate extremely well to students ranging from elementary-school-age to adults.

Please note that I strongly prefer to work with pupils who want to learn: while I will not spoon-feed students, I will teach them how to think and how to find answers for themselves.

About me: After finishing my PhD in organic chemistry at Scripps Research, I spent three years as a post doctoral fellow at Harvard. I am also an alumnus of The Poet's Tree Workshop in San Diego, CA, and one of my passions is writing poetry.

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Education

Boston University
Chemistry and Biology
The Scripps Research Institute (NSF Predoctoral Fellow in bioorganic chemistry)
PhD
Harvard University (NIH Postdoctoral Fellow in organic chemistry)
Other

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Approved Subjects

ACT English

ACT English

I excel at teaching the basic knowledge of English and the strategies required to perform superlatively on this important section of the ACT. Let me put my years of experience and study to work in helping you you to ace the English section of the ACT.
ACT Math

ACT Math

Between my work as freelance tutor and as a certified teacher at C2 Education, I have spent thousands of hours tutoring ACT and SAT math to all types of students. As your personal tutor, I will tailor my approach to fit your needs, in part by drawing from a huge library of study materials, including a comprehensive collection of previously administered tests and carefully chosen practice packets for targeting specific areas of ACT math. I know all the tricks and have seen every type of question; let me share with you my strategies for success!
ACT Reading

ACT Reading

Success in the reading portion of the ACT requires not only practice in comprehension, but also strategies for eliminating similar answers to focus on what the test makers consider the best answer for each question. I excel at both these areas, and I am expert in explaining these processes to students.
ACT Science

ACT Science

While the ACT Science test requires some scientific literacy, it is more a test of reasoning than of the depth or breadth of a student's scientific knowledge. With my strong background in science and test preparation, I can help you learn strategies to score highly on this important section of the ACT.
Algebra 1

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 is one of the most important branches of mathematics because students will use algebraic skills in every math class that they take afterward. I have a PhD in Chemistry with a strong background in mathematics and a great deal of experience tutoring algebra and more advanced math. When I tutor algebra, I use a conversational approach to try to remove the subject from the formalities of the classroom and thereby make it more accessible and less intimidating. I also teach students multiple ways of solving algebraic problems, which I believe leads to a deeper and longer-lasting understanding of material compared to alternative approaches that focus on a single method of problem solving.
Algebra 2

Algebra 2

Algebra 2 is an important subject that helps students develop skills required in precalculus and higher math. I have a Ph.D. in chemistry with a strong background in mathematics. In addition to I tutoring several students in mathematics through WyzAnt, I use algebra 1 and 2 a good deal in my teaching and during the course of my work as a research chemist. When I teach algebra 2, I adopt a conversational style intended to put the student at ease and make the subject more accessible and less intimidating than in a traditional classroom setting.
Biology

Biology

In addition to teaching part-time at local colleges and universities, I have a Bachelor's degree in chemistry with a minor in biology from Boston University and a Ph.D. in chemistry from The Scripps Research Institute.
Calculus

Calculus

I enjoy tutoring calculus because it has so many real-world applications; for example, in physics, engineering, and economics. Calculus is also a required premedical course. Don't be intimidated by this important subject; let me help you succeed and boost your GPA with an easy A.
Chemistry

Chemistry

I have a PhD in chemistry with many years experience teaching and tutoring. In June, 2018, I earned formal qualifications to teach AP Chemistry by completing a week-long Summer Institute endorsed by the College Board and designed for experienced AP Chemistry Instructors. In addition to AP chemistry, I tutor extensively in high-school and college-level chemistry. Through these experiences, I have found that introductory chemistry courses are too often taught as a series of loosely connected "units"; let me help you achieve understanding by finding the common threads that connect these units. With a little up-front investment of time, understanding will save you time in the long run by allowing you to move away from rote memorization.
COOP/HSPT

COOP/HSPT

I am a PhD-level chemist with a great deal of experience tutoring students in mathematics, English, and all aspects of standardized test preparation. I have helped students successfully prepare for several middle and secondary-school admission tests, including the COOPT, HSPT, SSAT, and ISEE. My approach is to get to know the areas in which a student needs to focus and then design a balanced study plan to strengthen those areas that need the most attention while helping the student maintain a high degree of competency is his or her strongest areas. I aim to streghthen not only a student's fundamental knowledge, but also to teach test-taking skills and strategies that are widely applicable to other standardized tests that a student is likely to encounter later, including the SAT, ACT, GRE, MCAT, etc.
Elementary Math

Elementary Math

I have a strong background in math and a great deal of experience tutoring students of all age groups and abilities, including elementary math. Let me share my passion for learning with you. My qualifications include a PhD in chemistry from The Scripps Research Institute and three years as a postdoctoral student in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology at Harvard University.
English

English

My work as a professional scientist and educator requires excellent skills in written and verbal communication. From a young age I have been a serious student of the English language. In my teaching I emphasize the importance of recognizing and mastering Standard English as means to increasing one's credibility and winning the confidence of one's audience.
Geometry

Geometry

Geometry is a fascinating subject and important for understanding the sizes of objects and their relationship to one another. I have a Ph.D. in chemistry with a strong background in mathematics.
Grammar

Grammar

Fair or not, we often find ourselves being judged by whether or not we use correct grammar. Knowing the rules of Standard English is, therefore, important for making a good first impression in everything from job applications to admissions essays and interviews. Throughout my education and work as a professional scientist and educator, I have been a serious student of the English grammar. Nevertheless, I like to use humor in my teaching of grammar, because, after all, many rules are contradictory and subject to exceptions. My teaching style is non-judgemental and intended to help you easily switch between Standard and colloquial English as the situation requires.
GRE

GRE

The GRE is a crucial part of your application to graduate school; in fact, some graduate schools place more emphasis on your GRE scores than they do on your GPA. My high achievement on the GRE helped me gain acceptance to top graduate programs, and also helped me earn a National Science Foundation Predoctoral Fellowship that supported much of my graduate work. Over the years, my experience in teaching, tutoring, writing, and research have taught me the skills and strategies required to help you return a stellar performance on both the verbal and quantitative portions of this important exam.
ISEE

ISEE

I have a great deal of experience in helping students prepare for standardized tests, including SAT, ACT, and SSAT. My experience with the SSAT is particularly relevant, as the SSAT and ISEE and similar in many regards. Let me help you do your best on this important exam.
Literature

Literature

Helping students to understand and appreciate English literature is one of my passions. I have tutored students in nearly all of the literary works commonly encountered in middle and secondary school, including those by ,John Steinbeck, F. Scott Fitzgerald, George Orwell, J.D. Salinger, Richard Wright, Langston Hughes, Harper Lee, Shakespeare, and Homer (in English translation). In addition to being intimately familiar with these authors, I am also well-versed in the body of commentary and critical studies concerning these authors and their works. As a consequence, I am able to help students both to comprehend deeply and to write knowledgeably about English literature.
Organic Chemistry

Organic Chemistry

Organic chemistry is my specialty. I hold a PhD in Organic Chemistry from The Scripps Research Institute with three years postdoctoral experience at Harvard University. When I tutor Organic Chemistry, I encourage students to recognize trends and themes rather than engage in rote memorization. In my experience, this approach leads to a deeper understanding of the course material, which not only aids in memorization, but also empowers students to bring together seemingly far-flung bits of information to solve those tricky questions that show up on tests and exams. About my background in Organic Chemistry: I have tutored Organic Chemistry to students from at least fourteen different colleges and universities; I am therefore familiar with the teaching styles of different professors, as well as the content and rigor of all major Organic Chemistry textbooks. I have worked part-time as a Professor of Organic Chemistry; I tutor extensively in Organic Chemistry; and I have many years experience working as a Research Organic Chemist at universities and national laboratories. As your personal tutor, I am eager to apply these experiences to help you succeed in your course!
Physical Science

Physical Science

My love of physical science stretches back to when I was about nine years old. Since that time, I earned a bachelor's degrees in Chemistry with a Minor in Biology, followed by a Ph.D. in Chemistry. I also acquired a strong background in Physics and Mathematics. Currently, I teach college-level Chemistry and tutor several students in general Physical Science as well as specific disciplines such as Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and Mathematics.
Physics

Physics

I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and a strong background in physics and mathematics up to differential equations and linear algebra. I am a patient instructor and am good at identifying areas in which students need extra help.
Praxis

Praxis

Scoring well on the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators Test is an important step to becoming a teacher. Like many other general standardized tests, Praxis I focused on mathematics, reading, and writing. I have a great deal of experience tutoring students in these areas as well as in preparing students for standardized tests that cover these topics. Let me help you leap over this important hurdle toward becoming a teacher.
Prealgebra

Prealgebra

I enjoy helping students with prealgebra, since it forms the foundation on which algebra--one the the most generally useful branches of mathematics--is built.
Precalculus

Precalculus

Precalculus is part review of algebra, trigonometry, and analytical geometry; part new material will help you with calculus; and part material that you may not see again unless you progress at least to linear algebra and differential equations. In any case, this subject is a prerequisite for calculus in most high schools and colleges, and I am here to help you attain the confidence you need to succeed!
Proofreading

Proofreading

In editing, writing, and teaching others to write, I constantly strive to improve style, including clarity, precision, and conciseness. I have consulted for World Book, reviewed and edited scholarly articles for several prestigious publishers, and personally authored over 25 academic publications.
PSAT

PSAT

The Preliminary SAT, or PSAT, is an excellent early indicator of how well students will do on the SAT. Perhaps more importantly, however, PSAT scores are used to determine eligibility and qualification for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Many students and parents view the PSAT as a Practice SAT use the results of this test to determine in which areas the student needs improvement to perform well on the SAT. However, practicing for the PSAT is extremely important for those students seeking merit scholarships. I have extensive experience in all areas of SAT and ACT preparation and can help you boost your chances for a merit scholarship by helping you ace the PSAT.
SAT Math

SAT Math

Between my work as freelance tutor and as a certified teacher at C2 Education, I have spent thousands of hours tutoring SAT and ACT math to all types of students. As your personal tutor, I will tailor my approach to fit your needs, in part by drawing from a huge library of study materials, including a comprehensive collection of previously administered tests and carefully chosen practice packets for targeting specific areas of SAT math. I know that my math strategies work because I have applied them personally: in May 2018, I sat for the official SAT at a local high school and scored a perfect 800 in mathematics. Another way I will help you succeed is by tracking subtle changes in the test content: I carefully study real SATs and touch base with my students as they go through every step of the testing process. Let me share my experience and insights with you today!
SAT Reading

SAT Reading

The Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Sections of the SAT both center on passage-based reading. The former rewards students for finding answers that are objectively supported by the text, while the latter rewards students for recognizing and correcting errors in punctuation, tense, and usage. I have helped several students to improve their scores in these sections by enabling them to recognize, understand, and eliminate wrong answer choices, and by augmenting their understanding of the grammar and stylistic conventions championed by the SAT. Together with my skills in SAT Math and SAT Essay Writing, I offer comprehensive, one-stop SAT preparation.
SAT Writing

SAT Writing

Writing, revising, and editing are important skills for college and beyond. The writing section of the SAT attempts to assess your skills in these areas. I have helped many students improve their scores in this section using a combination of test-taking strategies and reinforcing basic writing skills. Let me share my expertise with you and help you ace the SAT writing section!
SSAT

SSAT

The SSAT is an important component of your child's application for admission to private or independent schools. My skills as a tutor in test preparation, mathematics, English, writing, and vocabulary make me an excellent choice for anyone seeking a top-quality tutor in all areas covered by the SSAT. Let me help your child ace this crucial test!
Trigonometry

Trigonometry

Trigonometry is a fun subject because it involves math relating not only to triangles and circles but also to periodic functions used to model important phenomena in physics and other disciplines. I enjoy tutoring trigonometry because I love to help students think logically about a subject with so many real-world applications.
Vocabulary

Vocabulary

To master any language, a student needs a broad and deep vocabulary. My work as a professional scientist and educator requires excellent skills in written and verbal communication. From a young age I have been a serious student of the English language. In my teaching I emphasize the importance of recognizing and mastering Standard English as means to increasing one's credibility and winning the confidence of one's audience.
Writing

Writing

Helping others to develop their writing skills is a passion of mine. In editing, writing, and teaching others to write, I strive to improve style, including clarity, precision, and conciseness. I have consulted for World Book, reviewed and edited scholarly articles for several prestigious publishers, and personally authored over 25 academic publications. I have also taught writing to native and non-native English speakers alike, from high school students to postdoctoral fellows.

Examples of Expertise

Thomas has provided examples of their subject expertise by answering 2 questions submitted by students on Wyzant’s Ask an Expert.

See all of Thomas ’s answers ›
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Response time: 7 hours

Ratings and Reviews

Rating

5.0 (1,025 ratings)
5 star
(1,009)
4 star
(15)
3 star
(1)
2 star
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1 star
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Reviews

Absolutely the BEST test prep tutor around!

I HIGHLY recommend Tom for test prep tutoring. Tom has helped my daughter, a rising junior, prepare for the SAT over the past four months, and helped her to increase her score by nearly 200 points. Tom is extremely reliable, patient in his delivery of information and clearly explains concepts. He has a vast knowledge of ALL parts of the SAT (reading, grammar, math, essay) and is able to recommend the best and most efficient tools to study effectively for this test. He personalized his sessions based on my daughter’s strengths and weaknesses, and utilized a multitude of material to supplement his sessions. Tom’s calm and measured teaching style always put my daughter at ease when working with him. He is extremely intelligent, an effective teacher, and completely reliable. He was never late and always respectful in our home. I cannot say enough about Tom - he is not only an amazing tutor but also a wonderful person! Do not hesitate one moment to hire him for test prep tutoring!!

Emily, 15 lessons with Thomas

Great tutor!

He tutored my 10th grade girl for AP chemistry. She said it was very helpful and he explained so well to understand the concepts she has struggled with! Highly recommend him!

Jieun, 1 lesson with Thomas

Experienced and professional tutor

Tom worked with my 2 kids (entering 5th and 6th) to prepare for an upcoming CTY SCAT test. This test focuses on analogies and quantitative reasoning. Since we procrastinated, we waited until 2 weeks prior to the exam to cram. Tom provided lots of relevant material with many exercises and test-taking strategies. I'm pleased to note that both kids passed with flying colors and were accepted into the program. Thanks Tom! We will connect with you for upcoming standardized testing.

Jean, 12 lessons with Thomas

Outstanding tutor

Tom has been tutoring my son for 9 months. He is outstanding- highly professional, extremely knowledgeable, very flexible and kind. My son says he is one of the best tutors he has had. We feel fortunate to have Tom on our team.

jeanne, 63 lessons with Thomas

Knowledgeable, respectable

We had different chemistry tutors over the last two month, and he is the best one so far. He has the knowledge and know-how to teach and prepare for a test. We do recommend Tom for chemistry subject.

Reza, 29 lessons with Thomas

Knowledgable

Great, Polite and very knowledgeable. He taught my daughter Algebra 2. She was struggling with the subject since months ago. He came on time and spent enough time.

SHERI, 1 lesson with Thomas

Do not hesitate if you need a Chemistry Tutor contact Thomas

I was in need of a chemistry tutor for my college age sophomore. I am 800 miles away from her and finding the right tutor can be a challenge. I contacted a few as I originally missed Thomas profile. Thankfully he reached out to me before I heard back from the ones I had contacted! So grateful he did. Thomas was easy to work with-- set up her session, at a location that was good for her as she does not have transportation, arrived when he said he would. After the session my daughter texted me "Great tutor, I really like him." Talked to her later in the day she shared how they covered more then she thought possible, he covered the material to her learning style and that the lesson went well. I will be keeping Thomas information should we need him in the future. I will also be recommending him to her classmates who may need help in Chemistry.

Kara, 1 lesson with Thomas

Kind, Patient, Thorough

Thomas is genuinely and totally present to the student; teaching, directing and instructing in a very connected way. Our son definitely benefitted from time spent with Tom. We are looking forward to successful results on his SAT. Thank you Tom!

Cheri, 5 lessons with Thomas

Friendly teacher

We had a good session with Thomas. He was friendly. He informed us a lot. We liked him. I recommend himWe had a good session with Thomas. He was friendly. He informed us a lot. We liked him. I recommend himWe had a good session with Thomas. He was friendly. He informed us a lot. We liked him. I recommend him.

Izim, 1 lesson with Thomas

Knowledgeable and Reliable Tutor

I would definitely recommend Tom. He has helped my daughter with the fundamental concepts for her AP Chemistry class. He is very knowledgeable and reliable. My daughter is very comfortable with him and he explains things in a way that she understands. At one particular session, he enhanced her knowledge of the Colligative Properties and helped her prepare for an upcoming test.

Paula, 12 lessons with Thomas
Hourly Rate: $80
Response time: 7 hours
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