​College Prep

 Few writers make a living solely by writing. Most of us need to do other work to make ends meet, and in the last few years I’ve added college prep tutoring to my list. I tutor students in ACT English/Reading and SAT Reading/Writing & Language. It’s a great job for a word nerd! I love working one-to-one with students. I find it immensely satisfying to see their test scores rise and know that I’m making a difference.
 
I also coach students who are working on their college application essays. I guide students  through the entire creative process, from coming up with ideas to proofreading that final draft. They can submit their essays feeling confident and proud—and they will likely pick up some writing skills they can use in college and beyond.
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​Most of my students come to me through a local college prep company, but I’m considered an independent contractor and am free to seek my own students. Truth be told, I’ve always been bothered by the high cost of tutoring—it’s out of reach for so many families. I would like to do my part to even the playing field for motivated students. To that end, my fees are based on a sliding scale according to family income.
 
Tutoring can be in person (at local libraries or coffee shops) or on Zoom. I’m also happy to work with small groups (two to four students) as another way to make college prep affordable.
 
One more thing: I enjoy working with students at all ability levels. Not every student is trying to get into Princeton or Harvard! I make a point of meeting students where they are at, and I'm quick to offer encouragement and recognize progress. I know firsthand that if students receive instruction suited to their needs and are willing to practice consistently, their scores will improve—sometimes dramatically.

Please contact me if you’d like to know more! 

NOTE: I'm not able to provide tutoring for Math and Science, unfortunately. If you know of any Math/Science college prep tutors who share my philosophy, please encourage them to get in touch with me. 
 

K I N D    W O R D S ​

​ESSAYS

I can't tell you enough how much I appreciate your time. Your comments helped so much. I love where my essay is at and couldn't have done it without you. Thank you!!!     Rosemount student

Thank you so much for helping me revise this essay. I'm really proud of the end result. This was the first time I've spent this much time and effort on a single essay. Also kind of the first time I've written something like this. I feel like I learned a ton from it and am considering doing a creative writing course at the U for PSEO in the spring.     South Minneapolis student 


ACT/SAT

Nancy—thank you so much for the recap and the help and just your nice way. You have been so great.     St. Thomas Academy parent
 
My daughter did a great job at the ACT. She especially felt good about the English and Reading sections. Thank you so much for your work with her. As you know, she had a lot of test anxiety and a lot on her plate when she started working with you and you were just incredible. I can't thank you enough for all your help! We won't know for a few weeks how she scored, but I'm just so glad she had a positive experience and felt prepared. THANK YOU! THANK YOU!      Highland Park Senior High School parent
 
Thank you for working with my son to improve his ACT score. Your very thoughtful and diligent approach is much appreciated!     St. Thomas Academy parent
 
I also wanted to say a really really big thank you (it's a bummer I didn't get to say it in person last time)! Your classes were really helpful and they truly pushed me to work a lot harder. I had a really great time working with you!     St. Paul student
 
I didn't want to let another day go by without thanking you for your work with my daughter this summer. She has learned so much about the subject matter and testing strategies, and gained so much confidence. I have really enjoyed and appreciated your thoughtful and insightful communications about your sessions with her and suggestions for improvement. Thanks for everything!     Henry Sibley High School parent
 
Thanks again for the excellent tutoring in English. My son has learned a lot. We would be happy to recommend your services.     St. Paul Central High School parent
 
I just received my scores for the ACT I took in December and I am happy to report I received a 35 in English, a 36 in reading, and an 11 on the written portion for a composite score of 35!!!!!! I cannot thank you enough for all of the help. It was really wonderful working with you and I will continue to strive to improve my writing and grammatical skills.     Central High School student