Austin Lee

I was born in New York City and raised on Long Island before attending New York University for my undergraduate studies. At NYU, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience. Studying neuroscience gave me a deeper appreciation for the cognitive processes involved in learning, problem solving, and overcoming academic challenges—ideas that continue to shape the way I approach tutoring today. My interest in tutoring also comes from my own experience preparing for the SAT. While in high school, I attended Long Island Academy, a TestTakers affiliate, where I worked with a tutor who is now a colleague of mine. Although the exam has changed in several ways since I took it, the emphasis on strong strategies and careful problem solving that I learned there has remained just as relevant and valuable. While in university, I began tutoring SAT students in Brooklyn. Working closely with students over time taught me how important it is to identify each student’s individual needs and present challenging material in ways that are clear and approachable. Watching students grow more confident in their abilities and improve their scores made the experience deeply rewarding and reinforced my belief that effective tutoring can foster an interest and love of learning. While studying for the MCAT—the most demanding exam I had faced at that point—I worked closely with an MCAT tutor who was also a medical student. Preparing for such a difficult exam inevitably involved periods of frustration and self-doubt, but working with someone who understood the process helped me stay accountable and approach those challenges constructively. Over time, I strengthened both my test-taking strategies and my confidence in tackling complex material and performing under pressure. Because of these experiences, my goal as a tutor is not only to help students develop a strong understanding of the material, but also to build their confidence in approaching challenging exams and thinking through difficult problems. When I am not tutoring, I enjoy spending time with my five dogs, traveling, and cooking.