Student Feedback
"Hey, thanks for all of your help! It made a huge difference during the test. I was prepared for everything, I finished every section with plenty of time, and I stumbled on maybe 3 questions in the entire test. I left feeling like I did really well, especially on the writing and math. I was able to answer every question in those sections with ease and I think my essay went well, too!... Oh, and by the way, your gameday prep really helped, too. I even downloaded some Mozart to listen to before the test, and it seemed to give me a positive boost (not to mention it saved me from getting some pop song stuck in my head). I think I may start listening to classical music more often, like anytime I need to stay focused for a long time.
--Steve F., October 2008
"Hi Dr. Yo! I just got my ACT scores online, and (drumroll... haha) 31 composite, with 26 in science, 30 in math, 32 in reading, and 35 in English!!! Just wanted to thank you for helping me so much.... [Several months later:] I just wanted to thank you for everything you've helped me with this past year--from crazy English essays to XXXX's math tests to ACT's and SAT's, you really helped me and I couldn't have done any of it without you! And now for some exciting news: I was accepted at McGill, Maryland Honor's Program, and got a $25,000 scholarship at Case Western!!! (I'm still waiting on Emory and Michigan). I really really appreciate all the time, effort, and care that you put into helping me. You've been a wonderful role model and mentor, and always had the best advice on approaching anything. Once again, I just wanted to thank you for everything. I hope all is well by you!
--Miriam A., April 2008
"Hey, great news! I finished taking the practice test from the CollegeBoard website...I got a 1380 out of 1600!! and around a 2090 out of 2400 (depending on my essay, which I assumed would be around a 4-5). It's amazing how much I've gone up so far, from 1260 and 1830 to 1300s and 2000s. Thanks so much for everything!.... [One month later:] I wanted to let you know that I got into Cornell! Thanks so much for all the help with SAT's and the essay -- it definitely made all the difference. Thanks so much!"
--Elie R., telephone tutoring student, January 2008
"Dr. Youmans personalized lessons allowed me to conveniently study for the SAT. His teachings gave me the tools and confidence to succeed." Scores: 800 Math, 800 Verbal, 770 Writing
--Elie Z., 2007
"I haven't talked to you in the longest time ... but I wanted to tell you that I GOT INTO VANDERBILT!!!! And they probably wouldn't have even looked at me unless I got my SAT scores up thanks to you and they also commented on my enthusiasm for the school (the essays you helped me with) so I just wanted to say THANK YOU SOOO MUCH!!!!! I hope all is well."
--Ellen F., 2004
"I'm going to seriously miss tutoring. I never thought I'd say those words... We had fun, and you're a kick ass tutor! C YA Around Town, and Thanks for everything."
--Sam C., 2003
"I just wanted to let you know that I took the SATs and I was EXTREMELY pleased-- like you said, nothing surprised me. I went in there confident and left confident as well, so thank you so much for all the time you spent preparing me for this day, both mentally and emotionally. [Three weeks later:] I just wanted to tell you that I got my scores: xxxx. YES! YES! YES! I am so happy. I am sooooo happy. Thank you for all the time that you spent working with me - it really really helped and worked. I am so excited."
--Jamie K., 2002
"If it weren't for you, I don't know how I would have survived the SATs...thanks for all your help. REALLY, I don't think I could've done it without your encouragement. I can't believe how much they use the same words over and over again...how cool! I even saw some of the SAME analogies I solved in my practice SATs...Wow."
-- Sage C., Los Angeles, CA, 2000
"Under Mr. Youmans' guidance I was able to surpass my highest goals. I recommend him to anyone who wants to maximize their score on the SAT's!"
--Raphi T., 2000
[Raphi went up over 200 points between his PSATs and first SATs, scoring in the high 1400's on the old 1600-point scale!]
"I just wanted to tell you one little thing... I GOT INTO YALE!!! So...thank you for all of your work with me on the SAT's...I'm sure that helped my case with the Yale admissions officers. So, thanks again."
-- Katie R, "Yalie," 2000
"I really was not going to call for my SAT scores because I don't want the ETS to have more money....but I gave in. so, I wanted to tell you what I got. 720 in verbal and 740 in math!!!!! Isn't that awesome?.... Thank you so much for helping me (: Now I have to go do some homework. Joy."
--Rona B., 1999
"I just wanted to say thank you! In the last couple of years you have taught me about literature, grammar, and of course vocab! You taught me about self-expression. But even more than that you were a good friend-- always finding time to chat, share exciting news, or just to discuss anything from classical music to religion. You opened my eyes to a whole new world and I will always remember you and our talks. I will miss you very much. Thank you so much for everything!"
-- Barbara G., 1995
"I cannot expect to put into words everything you've given me, but I feel it necessary to express my deep gratitude to you.... The most essential skill I gained from you was the ability to formulate and express my ideas coherently. I do not possess and inborn knack for writing. I learned whatever I know the hard way-- through consciously improving my style based on the instruction and guidance of teachers.... Beyond merely strengthening my intellect, you bolstered my confidence. You cannot imagine how far positive reinforcement can take an insecure student.... Besides just thanking you, I want to express the deep respect I have for you as a person. The tireless effort you devote to your students is rare, and it extends far beyond your teaching ability. I hope to emulate you in devoting my energies to the things I value most in life..."
-- Yehuda S., 1992
"Of the innumerable hours I spent at [school] over the past twelve years, the few passed in your classroom seemed the briefest. This was both good and bad: while not every class was spent in the depths of complex literary analysis, each one flew, for I remained perpetually interested. Unfortunately, until this point in my education, I have found that to be a rare state.... I am grateful."
--Noah F., 1990
[7 years later:] "I don't think I ever told you what a big influence you and your class had on me. Your class really stands out as a major highlight of my educational experience, high school and college. I still remember so much of what you taught us--but most of all I recall your passion for the subjects and your dedication to students. Thank youthank you thank you!
--Avi S., 1999
Parent Feedback
"Matt really appears to be enjoying his sessions with you. He talks about them a lot. We hope to see you soon.
--Thomas A., October 2009
"Hi Mike – forgot to e-mail you the good news last week – Nicholas scored an Advanced on his math MCAS, a remarkable achievement considering that he had previously scored only 2 points above Failing. He also scored Proficient on Bio (only 10% of his class scored that high). Thanks for your help and encouragement."
--Eileen M., September 2009
"Mike, WOW!!! You are truly amazing at what you do!! Thank you,
Caryn B., August 2009
I wanted to thank you for your work with Josh…I know his methods are a bit different from his brothers...It's great to see an educator who can adapt to the learning needs of his students!"
--Dorie C., July 2009
"I want to you know how pleased I am with what you are doing with Alex. I can see him gaining confidence and setting wise goals for himself. I appreciated the overview and organization in the way you presented the Shakespeare material. I also liked the way you joked with him when correcting his essy, supported him in what he had done well and again clarified the changes he needs to make. We all need to hear things repetively when learning before the "ahh ha." He is obviously taking your guidance to heart and working with it. He is motivated and inspired to share your mutual love of the subjects and improve his presentation. His self-discipline has improved. Thanks for all of that."
--Dr. Anastacia S., July 2008
"We just got Ethan's Subject Test score..590...an improvement over the last by over 100 points. Thanks again for your help in preparing Ethan."
--Deb C., June 2008
"I loved your presentation at Berkshire School last week. All of us in the audience were excited and energized by your talk. I have signed up my son!"
--Christine H., January 2008
"Elie is so motivated. We couldn't do it. You have the magic touch!... He let me hear your message. You are quite amusing! Thanks for your caring, good advice and wonderful manner. It definitely makes a difference with your students (and those related to them). Mike, we see the change in Elie, and are grateful to you. We speak your praises and are sure that this will ultimately allow additional students to benefit from you and your programs."
--Maggi & Jacob R., 2007
"Thank you for getting my girls into the groove for the SAT's. As always you did a great job with the material, but more important, you keep on showing all your students that learning can be fun and even having a tutor can be a blast."
-Dr. Steve Y, parent, 2005
"Thought you'd like to know that Chris just learned he was accepted to Purdue Univ and Colorado State. He's a happy camper today. Your work certainly helped and the admissions person with whom I spoke at Purdue mentioned that they particularly liked his 680 score in math. So thanks again. If you ever need a referral--I will give you a good review--let me know. Thanks from all of us."
--The Haleys, 2004
"We're still in a celebratory mood at the L---- household. I can't thank you enough for working with Caroline. In addition to knowing how to tutor her to do the best she possibly could, you motivated her to study and made the classes fun. Caroline tells me she plans to study more and try to get those awesome scores even higher. Amazing what potent reinforcement will do. Many thanks and I only wish you were here to witness Caroline's reaction when she saw her scores. My best",
--Janet L., 2003
"Thanks, Mike. We have really appreciated your help with Will. He is willing to accept feedback from you that he would never hear from us. It really helps decrease the stress!"
--Sue C., 2003
"I asked Misha which teachers he liked best, 'the favorite ones,' and his immediate response was--ta da....you, his tutor! I asked why and he said that you are able to make lessons interesting and exciting, and that you bring so many interesting facts to what you are teaching that it is fun. Now this statement comes from a boy (now 6 ft. tall) who learned to read late in life and has felt inferior because his (perceived) reading and comprehension skills are 'so poor' (remarks made by other teachers). So, what to say? You have ignited a spark in my son which he was made to believe he did not possess. You are not only funny and in possession of a good mind, but you are an expert educator--you have the ability to touch the lives of your students."
-- Karin H., 2002
"Great News!!!!!! Andrew received his acceptance letter from Rose Hulman today. We are all pretty excited here. At the risk of repeating myself, I think some of the credit is due to you.... With regard to your help, I cannot thank you enough. Andrew definitely moved up the ladder a full rung or two with your assistance. Previously, his application to Rose would have been only marginally competitive. To the extent that you would want, please feel free to count me as a reference and supporter. Your on-line service is everything that you advertise, and more."
-- Mark J., Anchorage, Alaska, 2000
"I just read your forwarded message to Sol. I am so impressed with what you asked him to do (no wonder he said he was exhausted when he got off the phone.) This is exactly what we needed for him. I can't thank you enough."
-- Linda M., 1999
"We can't thank you enough.... Yoni has told us so many times how he considers himself very fortunate to have had the opportunity to know you as a mentor and role model... He benefited in so many ways from the experience..."
-- Sharon W., 1997
"Mark, Elisha, and I would like to thank you for all the wonderful things you have done for our family... From tutoring for SATs to writing a recommendation to being a wonderful teacher, you have been a positive influence on Elisha... You have achieved great success in your teaching profession because you have inspired so many young people and have been a role model to them..."
-- Debbie B., 1991
"This is just a note to tell you [the principal] how impressed I've been with Mr. Youmans, who is Sara's English teacher this year. I've reviewed several of her writing assignments, and his critiques have been detailed, to the point, and helpful... I have taken to quoting a couple of these rules to my employees, some of whom I wish I could enroll in his course. I have told Sara that instruction of this quality is rare even in college, and that I hope she takes advantage of her opportunity..."
-- Gene F., 1990
"I want to thank you for your extraordinary kindness in calling Aaron last night to give him some assistance.... This is the sort of 'going the extra mile' which is very unusual, and we simply wanted to let you know how much we appreciate your interest in Aaron.... As parents we feel very fortunate that you chose teaching as a profession...Please accept our thanks and best wishes."
-- Harriet L, 1989.
"I think all of us have had a certain, special teacher, usually in high school, whose influence goes on and on... For the first several years of Batya's high school experience, were waiting for her special teacher. Our wait was not in vain. Please believe me when I tell you that you have been the redeeming feature of that experience.... You obviously really like your students, respect them, and enjoy their company-- all of which is not lost on them... You are a born teacher. Thank you, thank you."
-- Mark D.
Colleague Feedback
"Thanks for the information. The kids are so fortunate to have such an organized teacher. The review sheet is exactly what I need."
--Phyllis S, Academic Support, September 2009
"Mike and I met six years ago when we both taught at [a school] in Brookline. Though he left the school to complete his doctorate and find broader fields for his skills, he is still very much a presence in the halls of that building.... Just a week ago a colleague used the phrase 'Mike Youmans camp followers' to describe the parents and teachers who pursued him and engaged him as a tutor when he left the classroom.... Mike shares well. He plays with everyone. As any kindergarten teacher knows, this is a rare combination of valuable traits.... With his students, he had the reputation of being that most rare of all things: a teacher with a talent for listening closely and responding exactly to the individuals in his classes...."
-- Sharon P., 2004
"I was immediately impressed by Mike's energy and enthusiasm for teaching and learning.... Mike is a technology wizard. I was continuously impressed with his positive 'can do' attitude, and his willingness to provide instruction and support for students and colleagues.... His encouragement and ability to integrate technology with instruction in classrooms made Mike a superb role model for our young teachers in training...."
-- Fran L., 2002
"I have come to regard Michael as an educator and intellect of great stature. He possesses an eclecticism that I rarely witness in young people of his generation. Michael is at home in the arts, technology, the humanities, and mathematics and science. He has extensive experience as an instructor at the secondary level..."
-- Tom K., 2002
"By the way, you are such an inspiration. I watch you in class with your computer, you make it all look so easy and it probably is for you. You synthesize everything, you make everyone feel good, you always put a smile on everyone's face by keeping it all light when it needs to be light, and you bring to us sincerity and truth when we are seeking for that. It really was such a delight to encounter such kind people as you. Thank you."
-- Alexis D., 2000
"Mike consistently conducted himself professionally in all of these endeavors, applying both his strong intelligence and his easy sense of humor. Mike had an excellent rapport with all of the students in our school. His presentations were lively yet well focused, and he held the students to high standards in all of the course work. Students were particularly impressed by his interest in and application of technology in the school, being an early proponent of wireless Internet access and helping them with their use of this technology."
--Rick S., 1999
Essay Editing & Application Feedback
"The resume is perfect!!! Thanks so much Mike!!"
-Judy, 2009"
"I am very pleased with the revised essay! Thank you very much for taking the time to help me on such a short notice. I will definitely refer you to anyone in need of your service. Once again thank you for your assistance on such a short notice!!! THANKS!!!"
--Selika, 2007
"Mike you are the best!!! I have gotten into great schools, all of which are in the top ten. As we talked about, it is not the GPA and LSAT that got me in the door, but the 'soft factors' like the personal statement and extra essays... I know it could not have been done without your help... It was great working with you. First off, you where cheaper than other companies, and also you were very personal, you knew what I needed, and you did exactly what I wanted. You were great and it was worth ever penny; even more, getting into the schools I got into with your help is priceless. Thanks so much!!!!"
--Beth, 2007
"Mike, the essays look great! Thanks for all your help, it was definitely worth it."
--Mike, 2006
"Wow Mike, it is perfect! My essay says a lot about me now, and you made it sound so good. It is 100 times better than it was when I first gave it to you. I'm seriously really excited and there is nothing I want to change! Thank you so much!!”
--Caroline, 2003
"I wanted to thank you personally for your help with my essays. You worked on the essays back in late January. I just received word that I have been admitted to my first-choice MBA program and I am thrilled that I was accepted. Again, thanks for your help! You're a fantastic editor!"
--George, 2002
"Outstanding! You made my essay far more succinct. It sounds extremely professional. I've actually learned to be a better writer from your comments. I loved the way you kept my personal ideas and voice, but made them both more eloquent. You met and surpassed all the expectations I had surmised from the accolades on your website. Thank you,"
--David, 2001
"Hello Mike, I wanted to thank you for revising my essay. The personal statement helped me to get an interview for medical school. Just recently did I find out that I received admission into UF's medical school. I couldn't have done it without you.
Thanks for your help,
Akhil P., 2001
"I am amazed and impressed at the subtle yet significant changes you made in my essay. The paper was in every way essentially the same thought - same words - just carefully rearranged or restated for clarity without altering any of the points. You said exactly what I said, nuance and all -- just much, much better than I ever could, even had there been time for me to do multiple edits. And you did it in a very short time frame. Your talent as a wordsmith is truly exceptional. Thanks for sending such a nice email along with my edited essay wishing me well and including several helpful hints. I will recommend you wholeheartedly to others."
-- Terri, 2000
CollegePrepExpress in the News
| Sovereign Bank, Westfield, MA, Business of the Month: September 2008: |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Published in the Daily Hampshire Gazette, January 2, 2008:
NORTHTHAMPTON - As college admissions offices become more selective and the number of applicants increases, some students are now turning to another source for help getting in: a consultant.
---- As a way to increase chances of getting accepted into their top schools, more students and their parents are employing the services of college consultants. For a fee, these consultants will help students with grades, SAT scores, college essays and applications.
---- "My job is to help students strengthen their weak links," said Mike Youmans, Founder of CollegePrepExpress, a Westfield-based consulting firm that tutors students across the state. "We do as much as we can to help them get in."
---- The firm employs tutoring, classes, small groups and one-on-one meetings to help students complete their applications and stand out from the pack, Youmans said.
---- "It is becoming more and more difficult for students to find a way to keep up with the curve and stay competitive," Youmans said. "College prep services aren't just for the rich and famous anymore."
---- With colleges becoming more selective and an already-stressful application process, a college consultant can help students reduce stress and anxiety, he said.
---- "The work that we do for students with applications and academics is one thing, but they really appreciate having someone there to help them out," he said. "Having someone to talk to can be equally valuable."
Top
References
To email or talk to former students and parents about CollegePrepExpress, email or call (413-329-7540) for contact info!
|
