Colin
Patient, Experienced Multi-Subject Tutor (Harvard Grad & J.D.)
- $150 / h
- 35 reviews
- 1311 rating s
- Los Angeles , CA ( 90026 )
- 20 miles
I am a Harvard University graduate (cum laude) with almost 13 years of tutoring experience. I have achieved perfect scores on the GRE, GMAT, SAT, and ACT, and scored in the 99th percentile on my LSAT exam prior to law school. While in law school, I was a faculty lecturer for the University of San Diego's Test Prep Program, specializing in GRE, LSAT, SAT, GMAT, and college and graduate school application essay writing. During my time at Harvard, where I was a joint-concentrator in Comparativ...
bar exam
world history
LSAT
GRE
proofreading
law
SAT reading
SAT writing
GMAT
ASVAB
PSAT
SSAT
spelling
ACT Reading
ACT English
ACT Math
ACT Science
elementary math
college counseling
literature
algebra 1
algebra 2
American history
vocabulary
grammar
European history
geometry
prealgebra
precalculus
Latin
trigonometry
writing
geography
English
SAT math
Jinan D. from Encino, CA
Colin is not only very knowledgeable but very passionate. He truly cares about his students. As a college professor, I can say that Colin outperforms anyone with his standards, and out of class attitude. I definitely recommend him without hesitation.
Courtney H. from Pasadena, CA
Colin was so helpful today. He really gave my daughter the extra confidence and help she needed for her final. My daughter commented after Colin left, how much she liked working with Colin - "he is so smart!"
Chrystal F. from Los Angeles, CA
Colin is patient, engaging, and enthusiastic- an all around good person and tutor! I was starting to feel defeated by the LSAT, and after our first session I finally feel like I can reach my goals. Thanks Colin! I can't wait until our next session!
John Z. from Los Angeles, CA
I came to Colin with a specific set of goals to help raise my GMAT score, particularly in quant. He jumped right in on the first lesson without any prompting - it was clear he not only knew the material, but that it also was second nature to him. He's easygoing and fun to work with. Most impressive, however, was his ability to field questions while he was explaining a problem without breaking stride. In the end, with Colin's help I raised my score by a solid, double-digit margin in overall percentile, and wound up getting into my target Ivy League MBA program. I'd definitely recommend working with him.
Keanna B. from Los Angeles, CA
Colin is simply wonderful! Whatever your needs may be, he will accommodate and make sure you get the most out of your learning experience in order to make sure you succeed in the best possible way for you and your circumstances. I was always delighted to meet with Colin and he truly helped me in multiple areas academically. He also was great about any additional questions or needs I had in between sessions, which I greatly appreciated. I can not possibly say enough amazing things about Colin as a tutor and professional. He will truly help you as well as encourage you so that you have the confidence in yourself to exceed your goals. Personally, he helped me with various parts of my graduate school application including GMAT studies and my personal application, but I can see how he would be an amazing tutor for literally any and every subject for every age group. Not only is he a wonderful tutor, but he is trustworthy and kind. I couldn't have asked for a better tutor.
Eric L. from Los Angeles, CA
I found Colin using Google and hiring him was a total shot in the dark, but he ended up being great. Colin is a unique type of tutor: he has completely mastered the LSAT (and I'm assuming all the other tests he teaches), yet he is wise enough to realize that learning a test in not necessarily a mechanical process. When I began studying for the June 2014 LSAT, I was a mediocre test taker - I had done all the required reading (I read the Powerscore Bibles and Kaplan), memorized all the various game types, LR question types, etc., but I was unable to apply that knowledge efficiently. When I felt like I hit a wall, I contacted Colin. I went into my first lesson thinking, "This is a waste of time. I already know all the material, I have nothing to learn from a tutor." I was wrong. Colin watched me do a few LR problems, and then quickly diagnosed the problem - my test taking was too chaotic. We spent almost two hours that day discussing how to streamline the process of reading and answering questions: how to ignore things that don't matter; how to think realistically about what exactly the question was expecting from me; and most importantly, how to trust that taking the test at my own pace will get me the score I want. That lesson was so helpful, I continued to get better on my own for months afterwards. My scores went from the 50th percentile to the 99th on game day. It was only right before the test that I met with him twice more to settle my nerves. Colin was able to diagnose EXACTLY what I was doing wrong within 10 minutes of our first lesson. If that is not an effective tutor, I don't know what is. He is also professional, courteous, easy to get a hold of, etc. He does it right, and I would recommend him to anyone.
Mariah M. from South Pasadena, CA
My son responds very well to Colin's tutoring. We have been very happy with this experience, not just for SAT help, but for his positive attitude & feedback.
Nic M. from Newhall, CA
I began working with Colin in January to prepare for the June LSAT. I was scoring anywhere from 160-164, but really wanted to hit 170 on test day. It was difficult to find a tutor who could help me, since I already had a pretty good handle on the basics of the LSAT. Colin helped highlight some of the small errors I was making and helped me improve my timing significantly. I went from aiming to finish 3 of 4 games to actually messing up a game on test day, and still having time to go back and finish every question. I scored a 170 on the June LSAT, and was practicing as high as 178 by the end of my studying. I highly recommend Colin to anyone who wants to improve their score - even if you think you're already doing well, he can help you pinpoint the little adjustments you need to make to bump that score up by 5-10 points. He lives and breathes LSAT. I've never seen anyone who can think through every question type in such an effective and systematic way. I only wish I would have began working with him right when I first started studying, so that I could have copied his strategies even more. Aside from just LSAT knowledge, Colin was flexible with my busy schedule, easy to reach by phone and email, and very patient. I knew he genuinely wanted me to succeed, he isn't a tutor who just does his job and moves on to the next student> He really invested in me - I knew he really cared how I did on my test and it was a lot easier to learn from him as a result. He was exactly what I needed in a tutor - someone who was honest with me and willing to motivate me to do my best. He was extremely encouraging, but gave me more than just a pep-talk. He was tough enough on me that I wanted to improve every week. As I fill out applications for Berkeley, Stanford, and other top-level law schools, I know I wouldn't be in this position without Colin's help. He was such a good tutor that when I finally did score my goal of 170, I was actually disappointed because I knew I could have done even better! Highly recommend Colin for LSAT help, and I'm sure he's excellent for everything else too. Super smart guy who truly wants you to succeed, you can't ask for any more in a tutor than that.
Victoria J. from Los Angeles, CA
Colin is an excellent math tutor. He was very patient, gave clear, simple instructions and conducts himself in a very professional manor. Made every effort to work around my hectic schedule, always ready to work even on short notice, and never left a call or text unanswered. Will be looking to hire him again come my spring semester if his scheduling permits.
Janet M. from Encino, CA
Colin has addressed every issue that our son needs to be aware of, so now it is a matter of reviewing and practicing. Colin is making sure that our son feels very comfortable with the test, and more importantly, confident that he can score well.
Ada Y. from San Gabriel, CA
Colin has been fantastic. My son is a tough critic and he really has responded well to Colin's tutoring. He respects Colin and that is more than half the battle! My son is bright, but not always motivated. He has to be engaged in order to learn. Colin has reached him and we see the fruit of his efforts. Colin made himself available between sessions and seems invested in his success.
Leslie Dione E. from Los Angeles, CA
I had contacted WyzAnt to locate a tutor to assist my son in preparing to take the October SAT, especially the math portion. I selected Colin based on his personal data and geographic location; the rest of his skills, abilities, and knowledge were a wonderful surprise. While it is clear from Colin's bio that he is extremely intelligent and accomplished, what does not appear in black and white is his wonderful ability to connect with students and bring out the best in them. Colin is young enough to be able to relate to his students, including having personal knowledge of the stresses and challenges associated with trying to balance academics, extra-curricular activities such as sports, and the regular demands of day-to-day life. At the same time, he is old enough to speak with authority and give concrete direction and guidance. He shared a multitude of suggestions, approaches, and tips, not only with regard to the subject matter but to test-taking in general and the SAT in particular. My son was very encouraged by his progress, and gained valuable information on how to achieve an improved outcome. On a non-academic point, we live very close to Dodger Stadium, so traffic can be both unnerving and disruptive. Several times Colin was late through no fault of his own, yet he unfailingly arrived collected, enthusiastic, and ready to work. I (as well as my son, I am sure) would unreservedly recommend Colin, and I am grateful for his good work and attention.
Julie W. from Culver City, CA
Colin worked with my son to to prepare for his SAT. I was hoping for someone who could lend structure to his prep, orient him to test strategies and review forgotten skills. Colin excelled at these and much more. We feel very fortunate to have chosen him, because he showed an incredible ability to see my son as an individual, champion his strengths and relate to him in a kind and personable way. It was a huge success. We plan to continue to turn to Colin for his exceptional guidance with the college applications, essay, etc. I guess it's clear by now, I would highly recommend him!
Jie S. from Alhambra, CA
I have studied for the GMAT under Colin’s instruction for the past 5 months; he has also helped me as a college English Literature and Composition tutor. As a Chinese immigrant who has only lived in the U.S for 5 years, I was a total beginner in English writing and had no GMAT experience at all. During all my time learning from Colin, I have learned a tremendous amount of knowledge from him, far beyond merely the single subject of the GMAT. He has helped me from my starting point at the very basic level of Math and Literature analysis and writing to detailed English grammar; he has even introduced me to American culture from different aspects. He has been unbelievably patient and professional, allowing me to feel that he definitely knows what he is doing in every session we have had. I can see my improvement in Math and Literature analysis and writing clearly during the tutoring sessions. Additionally, he has never minded (and it has happened almost in every single one of our sessions) if we studied past the time for up to 25 extra minutes sometimes. He always charges me the amount which we originally planned and consented to before the session starts; the overflow is always at no charge. And sometimes, he even suggested to extend a little time for free just for me able to complete the chapter in that session so I can prepare for the next chapter in a better way. I have never met such a considerate tutor before in my life! And yes, in my honest opinion, Colin is the finest tutor I could have hoped for.
Debbie H. from Studio City, CA
First and foremost, the tutor my daughter selected, Colin D, is fabulous. He is punctual, bright, transmits his wealth of information in a fashion that my daughter understands, and always has a positive approach. Second, I have called customer service several times and each time I have gotten through to an agent quickly. Each agent has been both patient and helpful.
Michelle D. from Sherman Oaks, CA
Tricky wording of "consultation" to assess my child's needs, turned into several billed hours. Stereotypical attorney tactics. He would not return phone calls after multiple contact attempts.
Jenny L. from Pasadena, CA
Colin was a wonderful tutor! I honestly have no idea what I would have done without him. Though it was just a couple days before my applications were due, he very willingly helped me make my deadlines with quality work. He refined my essays and made them infinitely better with just a few changes, and really helped me shine on my applications. Not only was he extremely helpful, but he was also very pleasant and made me feel very comfortable. He was thoughtful and insightful and I will definitely be going back to him for help in the future.
Daniel M. from North Hollywood, CA
Incredibly well spoken, patient, and enjoys teaching. We were definitely on the same page throughout the session. He answered all the questions I had and really works hard to get the most out of the hour. He's an incredible writer that I wish he would teach a class that I could take to help me get to his level. I highly recommend Colin to anyone that's looking for a tutor and especially to anyone who's looking to improve their writing.
Amy G. from Irvine, CA
Colin is patient, personable and quickly adapted to my needs as a "student." He was able to get to know my learning style and break down quantitative GMAT problems that I had challenges overcoming. After just a few times of us meeting, I went into my GMAT confident and ready. My score improved over 100 points! I would definitely recommend Colin to other students who need that extra bit of help to excel.
Todd P. from Encino, CA
Colin was great at understanding what I needed to accomplish in a short amount of time and he tailored his work to make that happen. He has a deep knowledge base and the ability to get right to the core of a problem so you understand not only that solution but how to solve similar problems in the future.
Jordan A. from Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
I had several targeted questions about certain LSAT problems that I had found difficult several days prior while studying by myself -- Colin went through these problems and helped navigate my thought process by recommending certain approaches and giving me reasons why I should eliminate certain wrong answer choices.
Sunita B. from San Marino, CA
Colin established a rapport with my daughter right away. He is extremely knowledgeable in all areas and helped my daughter especially with Math and Biology. She has made tremendous progress in a short period of time which in turn has boosted her confidence level. I would definitely recommend Colin for tutoring needs.
Elisa N. from Los Angeles, CA
LSAT logic games methods that were tailored to my way of approaching those specific questions. Methods to approach the remaining sections were given for me to practice. Advice to work through test anxiety on exam day. A full study plan was set in place.
Aram T. from Glendale, CA
Colin primarily works with my 10 year old son on writing. He is working with my son to get him to focus on the pertinent information and use language artfully. He is also working with him on grammar. We have only had two lessons but we feel good about our decision and look forward to a lasting relationship as our son develops.
Mackenzie H. from Manhattan Beach, CA
Though we are just getting started prepping for the GRE, Colin's reassurance of my ability to be successful is an added bonus to his thoughtful and patient teaching style.
Apryl K. from Pasadena, CA
Colin has been and is one of the best tutors our family has worked with. He's very reliable, very intelligent, very patient, and a great partner to work with to help your child meet their educational needs and goals!
June P. from Los Angeles, CA
We did SAT prep. He was really good. He is obviously so smart and gets to the point quickly. He's also patient and willing to go over a problem until I really understood the answer. I really liked working with him.
Casey S. from Los Angeles, CA
Within a few minutes of meeting Colin, you get the impression that he's the type of person who could be successful at just about anything. The guy is smart as can be, totally relatable, and passionate about what he does -- which is difficult, because who can be passionate about combinatorics at 11 am on a Tuesday? I met with Colin for a total of 6 hours in preparation for my GREs. I had spent two months preparing on my own without seeing progress. In just those few short visits, Colin raised my overall score by 6 points. The results speak for themselves. Colin is the best tutor I've ever used, plain and simple. It's impossible not to share in his enthusiasm for whatever subject matter he's assisting with. Highly, highly, highly recommend.
Madison H. from Los Angeles, CA
Colin was helpful in finding a good starting place for me to begin working on improving areas of my GRE strategy. He was patient and excited to work with me.
Bonnie P. from Los Angeles, CA
With Colin, you are paying for tremendous experience from decades of academic achievement at prestigious schools. He is great for editing and proofing papers. He also can help you with crystallizing I.
Ramina G. from Los Angeles, CA
Colin and I were meeting over GRE prep. Besides the lengthy lessons, and my attempts to find time saving strategy, he didn't even once go over time management with me. I hired him to teach me how to take the test, and for the price he charged me, I didn't get what I needed from my investment. I ran out of time on test day. I thinks he is very smart, but he could teach me so much more.
Rachel S. from La Canada Flintridge, CA
Colin is -- hands down -- the best tutor in Los Angeles. Brilliant but down to earth, easy to talk to, he knows his stuff and he knows HOW to teach. Many tutors are expert at the material, but cannot effectively convey it. Colin has tutored my son in Geometry, Algebra, Chemistry, Bio, English -- he can do it all. He tailors his game plan to exactly what needs to be accomplished, and my son feels confident after every session. And the proof is, his grades at school reflect that confidence. Colin's been tutoring with us for two years and works hard to accommodate my son's sometimes hectic schedule. I have nothing but praise and gratitude for his positive influence. Colin's a gem.
Joyce K. from Sacramento, CA
Not enough can be said about Colin!!! Without Colin I would not be where I am today. He is the most patient, intelligent person ever. He has helped me gain many accomplishments to pursue all my academic goals as well as further continue my education. He truly understands how to work with my individual needs in every aspect. He is always on time, dependable and knows exactly how to put each lesson together to get me where I need to be. He is the best tutor any one could ask for. Thank you Colin for all your time working with me side by side to make me an A+ student and help me accomplish all my goals. Thank you for always being there for me.
Hunter C. from West Hollywood, CA
Colin is the best in the business. If you're able to secure him as a tutor - consider yourself to be of the fortunate.
Sean Y. from Los Angeles, CA
Colin is truly one of the best tutors out there. I've had the privilege to know Colin for quite some time now and his kindness, patience, perseverance, and willingness to help make the rigors of law school much less strenuous. If you need help with Law School or any subject for that matter...he's the guy!