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Award-Winning College Application Essays Tutors

Tiffany

Certified Tutor

5+ years

Tiffany

Juris Doctor, Legal Studies
Tiffany's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Calculus
Algebra
Elementary School Math

I am available to tutor a broad range of subjects, I am passionate about test preparation, Accountancy, and Algebra.

Education

University of Notre Dame

Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting

University of Chicago

Juris Doctor, Legal Studies

Test Scores
SAT
1440
ACT
31
David

Certified Tutor

6+ years

David

Current Grad Student, Bioethics and Medical Ethics
David's other Tutor Subjects
Calculus
Algebra
AP Chemistry
Biochemistry

I am a graduate of Yale University, where I received my Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience. While I tutor a broad range of STEM subjects, I am most passionate about helping students achieve their best possible score on tests like the ACT and MCAT.

Education

Yale University

Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience

Harvard University

Current Grad Student, Bioethics and Medical Ethics

Test Scores
ACT
33
Rahul

Certified Tutor

6+ years

Rahul

B.S. in Chemical Engineering
Rahul's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Multivariable Calculus
Pre-Calculus
Geometry

I am a recent graduate of Cornell University, where I received a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and graduated Magna Cum Laude. Over the past several years, I have worked with students from diverse backgrounds and experiences tutoring thermodynamics (my personal favorite), chemistry, and math. I have a...

Education

Cornell University

B.S. in Chemical Engineering

Test Scores
Perfect Score
ACT
36
Esther

Certified Tutor

9+ years

Esther

Current Undergrad, Politics, Philosophy, and Economics
Esther's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Middle School Math
Calculus
Algebra

I'm currently a Junior at the University of Pennsylvania majoring in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics and a 2014 graduate of Phillips Academy. As a product of great tutoring myself, I focus on being patient, flexible, and kind with all of my students. Outside of my academics, I'm a member of the ...

Education

University of Pennsylvania

Current Undergrad, Politics, Philosophy, and Economics

Test Scores
SAT
1500
Zach

Certified Tutor

Zach

Bachelor of Science in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Zach's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Pre-Calculus
Middle School Math
Geometry

I am a Yale University Berkeley College graduate of the Yale Class of 2012 with an Intensive B.S. in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. Eager for tutoring opportunities, I welcome any of you who wishes to undergo SAT/PSAT or ACT Test Preparation that will get you the scores you need for...

Education

Yale University

Bachelor of Science in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology

Test Scores
SAT
1590
Sarah

Certified Tutor

9+ years

Sarah

Bachelor of Economics, Economics
Sarah's other Tutor Subjects
Calculus
Algebra
ACT Writing
ACT English

I am an incoming freshman at Northwestern University, and I will be studying economics and international studies. I have lots of experience in mentoring students individually and teaching in the classroom through being a student intern for a sophomore honors English class. I love working with studen...

Education

Northwestern University

Bachelor of Economics, Economics

Test Scores
SAT
1510
ACT
34
Nathan

Certified Tutor

4+ years

Nathan

Bachelor in Arts, History
Nathan's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Calculus
Middle School Math
Calculus
Algebra

I am currently a student at Rice University studying both History and Neuroscience. Being the oldest of five kids, working with younger students has always been a part of my life. I can tutor a wide variety of subjects, but I specialize in writing, public speaking, and test taking. My goal for every...

Education

Rice University

Bachelor in Arts, History

Test Scores
SAT
1530
Lauren

Certified Tutor

6+ years

Lauren

Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
Lauren's other Tutor Subjects
Middle School Math
Calculus
Algebra
Neuroscience

I am a student at Duke University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience with Chemistry and German minors. On campus I am involved in the Bilbo lab, which focuses on neuroimmune interactions in abnormal brain development. I am very passionate about helping others enjoy and learn about variou...

Education

Duke University

Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience

Test Scores
SAT
1450
ACT
35
Samica

Certified Tutor

3+ years

Samica

Bachelor of Science, Finance
Samica's other Tutor Subjects
College Algebra
Calculus
Algebra
SAT Writing and Language

I am a junior at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania studying Economics, Finance, and Business Analytics. For the last few years, I have been helping students with college application and test prep help, such as college essays, common app, and SAT/Subject SATs. I came fr...

Education

University of Pennsylvania

Bachelor of Science, Finance

Test Scores
SAT
1550
Scott

Certified Tutor

8+ years

Scott

Current Undergrad Student, Sociology
Scott's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Middle School Math
Calculus
Algebra

I'm Scotty! I am currently a senior at Harvard College pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Sociology with a secondary (minor) in Theater, Dance, and Media. I know full well that struggling with course material is tricky to navigate; I have not always felt comfortable going straight to the professor or t...

Education

Harvard University

Current Undergrad Student, Sociology

Test Scores
ACT
34

Meet Our Expert Tutors

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Ethan

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +23 Subjects

I am an undergraduate student at the University of Pennsylvania, studying Economics and Legal Studies. I tutor Middle and High School level Math, Spanish, and Writing, and I truly enjoy making the tutoring experience as fun, interesting, and enriching as possible. I have worked with students in these subjects since I was a high school student, and enjoy all of them equally. I tailor my teaching style to each student I work with, but a common theme is using real-life examples to bring any subject to life. Outside of the school environment, I am extremely interested in law, business, and politics, and am always in the mood for a conversation about current events!

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Linda

Calculus Tutor • +25 Subjects

I am especially committed to supporting first-generation college students, those for whom English is a second language, and working adults as they navigate the challenges of higher ed. Nevertheless, I have taught and mentored graduate students at Harvard and talented undergrads in a variety of disciplines and welcome helping with theses. In addition to teaching, I have a background in publishing and editing, and have been a writer since childhood. Language creates reality, and interpreting and using it well opens many doors. I delight to see students realize their capacities and expand their universe. Hobbies: reading, writing, books, music, art, travel

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Amanda

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +84 Subjects

I'm currently a fourth year medical student at a private medical school in Texas. I've been involved with tutoring since middle school continuing all the way through medical school. There are so many different ways to teach based on how students learn best and I am passionate about meeting the individual needs of students so they can succeed. I took unconventional approaches to learning as instilled by mentors throughout my life that greatly increased my ability to learn and comprehend material . I've worked with tutoring students in ACT prep, SAT prep, MCAT prep, IB and AP courses, as well as STEM subjects from elementary school through to college. Recently, I've also tutored for USMLE Step 1 & 2. I also edit and work with students who need tutors for writing and reading comprehension. I have extensive experience in both college and medical school admissions and work yearly with students on essays and applications. I went to high school at the Downingtown STEM Academy and graduated May 2018 from the University of Alabama with a 4.2. I have a BS in Biology with minors in Social Work and Social Welfare. I will be graduating with an MD and MPH in May 2022. I tutor english, math, geometry, algebra, SAT, ACT, MCAT, USMLE chemistry, biology, organic chemistry, and writing along with other subjects. I've worked with rural students in Alabama, students in the Greater Philadelphia area, and students in urban areas. I believe education should be personalized and while schools can't provide this due to lack of resources, tutors are a great substitute for that. Education is the gateway to social mobility and happiness and I seek to prepare my student to meet their individual goals. I work to create an environment where the student can focus on understanding the material for their own understanding and not for others which significantly increases the students confidence in the subject matter and their desire to learn more.

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Emily

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +38 Subjects

I am a Yale graduate with over 8 years experience tutoring students from a variety of backgrounds. I recently graduated from the Yale School of Public Health with a MPH concentrating in Epidemiology and Global Health. I also received my B.S. from Yale with a double major in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology and French. I have experience both leading group classes and working with students one on one. I will respond to a student's strengths, weaknesses, and learning style in order to help them succeed and make the most of our time together. I earned a perfect score of 36 on the ACT, 2280 on the SAT, and qualified as a National Merit Scholar on the PSAT. I look forward to working with you! Hobbies: writing, art, books, music, dancing, baking, reading

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Brittney

Calculus Tutor • +29 Subjects

I'm a graduate of Princeton University (2009), with a degree in Comparative Literature. I'll be receiving my masters degree in English from Grand Valley State University this fall and I'm looking forward to working with students like you! I've been teaching and tutoring students since 2008 and I specialize in English, Reading, Writing, Essays, and College Entrance Test Prep.

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Michael

AP Statistics Tutor • +63 Subjects

I'm now a few years removed from academia, I still consider myself an intellect at heart. Stints at New York University's Stern School of Business and Northwestern University have given me extensive scholastic training, and running my own private tutoring service throughout college as a means of making a living has helped me exercise and refine my skill set as a personal academic instructor. Partnering up with Varsity Tutors has provided me with a golden opportunity to continue helping students hone their own academic performance across a wide array of subjects, and my own tutoring background, coupled with my flexible schedule as a by-day real estate investor and independent business owner who possesses total control over his hours, puts me in a unique position to better accommodate the students I work with to ensure that they receive the attention and quality service they deserve.

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Jessica

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +45 Subjects

I am currently enrolled in Vanderbilt University where I am studying Elementary Education as well as European History. I love working with students, and I intend to make a career out of it. I have experience working with students in different contexts, from the dance studio to the classroom and across age groups. I have worked in an academic setting with students age three through seventeen, and I have tutored as a volunteer and in a more formal position for a multitude of organizations.

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Ariel

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +53 Subjects

I am a student at Brown University, where I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science in psychology. I employ a student-centered approach to tutoring, grounding the session in the student's knowledge of what topics it would be most beneficial to review. I typically begin a session by asking a student if there is any material they have learned since the previous session whose reasoning they would like for me to walk them through. I then help the student work through problems or questions that employ that understanding. My favorite subject to tutor is math; I love helping students understand the logic of a subject in which they may have been relying for years on memorization. I have been tutoring since 2016, and I have experience teaching math, science, language arts, history, French, and study skills to students in elementary, middle, and high school. I currently focus on math (pre-algebra, algebra, geometry), English, test prep, and essay writing.

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Sugi

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +54 Subjects

I am currently a 4th year medical student at Baylor College of Medicine and previously graduated from Rice University, Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor's degree in Cognitive Science and Biochemistry & Cell Biology. I have served on admissions interview committees for Rice and Baylor College of Medicine, have mentored and edited essays for numerous college and graduate school applicants, and served as a private tutor and classroom instructor for Advanced Biology and Chemistry courses for 3+ years.

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Juliet

Middle School Math Tutor • +33 Subjects

I'm an upstate NY based tutor, Harvard prefrosh and Interlochen Alumnus. I'm here to make learning simple, engaging, and sometimes (shocking I know) even fun! In all seriousness I think that learning should always be fun, and I'm here to get you there. I am here help out with essays, applications, self presentation, and visual art/drawing. I have a deep love of language, be it comprehension, literature or reading. I also tutor high school Algebra 1 and Geometry. Hobbies: books, music, art, nature, reading, writing

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Frequently Asked Questions

A strong college application essay does three things: it tells an authentic story about who you are, it shows rather than tells through specific examples and vivid details, and it reveals something meaningful that admissions officers can't learn from your transcript or test scores.

The best essays have a clear narrative arc with a genuine voice—your voice, not what you think colleges want to hear. Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so they're looking for originality, self-reflection, and evidence of how you think and what matters to you. Strong essays also show vulnerability or growth, demonstrating that you're self-aware enough to learn from challenges.

The most frequent mistake is trying to sound like someone else—using overly formal language or attempting to impress rather than connect. Many students also make the essay about an accomplishment rather than about themselves, missing the opportunity for genuine self-reflection.

Other common pitfalls include unfocused narratives (trying to cover too much ground), telling instead of showing (saying you're resilient rather than demonstrating it through a specific story), and ignoring the prompt. Students sometimes also underestimate the importance of revision—first drafts are rarely strong, and personalized feedback from an experienced tutor can identify areas where your voice gets lost or your argument weakens.

Expert tutors provide personalized feedback on your draft at every stage—from brainstorming and outlining through revision. They help you identify your most compelling story, clarify your thesis or central insight, and develop it with specific, vivid details that bring your essay to life.

A tutor also helps you find and strengthen your authentic voice, ensuring your essay sounds like you, not a thesaurus. They'll point out where you're telling instead of showing, flag unclear transitions, and help you revise for maximum impact. This personalized guidance is invaluable because college essays are deeply personal—a tutor can help you articulate what makes your story worth telling while maintaining the standards that selective colleges expect.

Ideally, start in the summer before senior year or early fall when you have time to brainstorm without rushing. This timeline allows you to work through multiple drafts and get meaningful feedback without stress.

If you're already in the thick of applications, don't worry—tutors can still help significantly with essays due soon. Even a few sessions focused on revision can strengthen your essay considerably. The key is giving yourself enough time between feedback and your deadline to implement suggestions and let your writing settle before submitting.

The best essay topics reveal something authentic about who you are and how you think. Look for moments where you faced a challenge, changed your perspective, overcame something difficult, or discovered a passion—experiences that genuinely shaped you, not just impressive accomplishments.

A strong topic allows you to show vulnerability, growth, or self-awareness. Avoid topics that are too broad (your entire life story), too focused on someone else (what your parent taught you), or stories that don't actually reveal much about your character. If you're stuck choosing between topics, personalized guidance can help you identify which story has the most depth and potential for meaningful reflection.

Most colleges specify a word limit—typically 500-650 words for the main essay. Stay within that limit; it demonstrates respect for the prompt and your ability to be concise and purposeful with language.

Quality matters far more than length. A tight, well-written 500-word essay that reveals something genuine is stronger than a rambling 650-word piece. Tutors can help you cut unnecessary words, tighten your prose, and ensure every sentence serves your narrative.

Most strong essays go through at least 3-5 meaningful revisions. Your first draft helps you discover what you want to say; subsequent drafts refine how you say it, strengthen your voice, and deepen your insights.

The revision process typically looks like: draft 1 (getting your story down), draft 2 (structural revisions and ensuring you answer the prompt), draft 3 (strengthening voice and vivid details), and final drafts (grammar, polish, and testing with fresh eyes). Working with a tutor who can provide expert feedback at each stage accelerates this process—they help you identify exactly what needs strengthening rather than revising blindly.

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