Tackle the TOEFL.

A Harvey Mudd College graduate with advanced studies in Mathematics and Theoretical Computer Science from Georgia Tech, Sarah has been with Applerouth since 2013. As the company’s Math Specialist, she shapes SAT/ACT math content and oversees the curriculum department while also excelling as a math and science tutor. Sarah’s tutoring philosophy is rooted in simplifying complex problems: “It’s good to keep the big picture in mind, but the best approach to almost any problem is to take things one step at a time.” In her free time, she enjoys knitting, baking, and singing in her choir.

“My daughter likes Sarah’s style and how she helps break things into manageable pieces. She feels Sarah is already helping her better understand the concepts.”

Eric is a transformative educator known for helping students master even the most challenging concepts. A National Merit Scholar and graduate of the University of Georgia, Eric joined Applerouth in 2015 and also serves as a Tutor Manager, mentoring other Applerouth tutors. He employs a scaffolding approach to learning, offering structured support and step-by-step guidance that helps students build confidence and independence. Eric explains, "I focus on building, starting with areas of strength or familiarity and using those concepts to build confidence and bridge into new ideas." Outside of tutoring, Eric enjoys reading and cooking.

“While my son started his tutoring sessions reluctantly, he has been pleasantly surprised by how helpful they’ve been. He enjoys learning new concepts and test strategies from Eric.  Just the other day, my son mentioned that he wishes Eric were his teacher at school.”

Bess has been with Applerouth since 2013, working with students from diverse backgrounds. She holds a BA from William & Mary and an MFA from George Washington University. With an infectious love of learning, Bess inspires students to take ownership of their academic journey, encouraging them to ask, "What can we get curious about?" By tailoring her approach to each student’s unique learning style, Bess challenges them to set ambitious goals and stay engaged in every step of the test preparation process—from mastering content to refining strategy. When she’s not tutoring, you’ll find her reading Shakespeare or exploring mixed martial arts.

"Bess’s individualized tutoring and ongoing encouragement gave our daughter the ability to attack the test with confidence! Bess understood and explained the areas where our daughter could study to improve, and shared the tips and tricks for that extra boost when the answer wasn’t clear. We highly recommend Bess and the private tutoring at Applerooth to any family looking to support their student in achieving a higher score on the SAT!"

Jeff Freud joined Applerouth in 2012 and holds degrees in both political science and education. In addition to tutoring, he contributes to the development of Applerouth’s curriculum, supporting the creative team by editing content for instructional materials. Jeff emphasizes purposeful practice, encouraging students to approach preparation with intention. As he explains, “Using a baseball analogy, smart players don’t try to hit home runs in batting practice—they simulate game situations and ask, ‘Given this scenario, how would I react?’ The same applies to test prep: every assignment or practice test should have a clear goal.” Outside of tutoring, Jeff enjoys hiking, traveling, and volunteering.

“My son was admitted to the University of South Carolina, NC State, and Wake Forest. We are truly grateful for Applerouth and all the persistent, expert tutoring that he received from Jeff! You receive our highest recommendation when friends are looking for SAT instruction!”

Chelsea, the Seattle-area Tutor Manager, joined Applerouth in 2016 with a strong background as a college-level science instructor. A former International Baccalaureate student, she earned a Bachelor’s in Biological Science and dual Master’s degrees in Biology and Science Education from Florida State University, where she also conducted lab research and taught undergraduates. Chelsea takes a student-led approach to tutoring, saying, “I don’t give direct answers; instead, I ask questions to guide students toward a problem-solving process they can use in the future.” Outside of work, she enjoys rock climbing, cooking, and playing bass guitar.

“Our daughter is so fortunate to have Chelsea as her tutor. She was struggling last semester, but with Chelsea’s help, she improved significantly this semester. She had more than 10 tutors before, and Chelsea is the best tutor she has ever had. She ROCKS!”

With degrees in Art Marketing and Art Education from Georgia universities, Shara-Sue joined Applerouth in 2014, bringing eight years of experience teaching Special Education, Math, and Visual Art at the middle and high school levels. As a Senior Tutor Manager, her lively, adaptive, and energetic style empowers students to build confidence and conquer test anxiety to be fully prepared for test day. Known for her dedication and willingness to go the extra mile for students and families, Shara-Sue creates a supportive and engaging learning environment. When not tutoring, Shara-Sue enjoys creating art, traveling, and exploring Atlanta’s vibrant cultural scene.

"Shara-Sue is the most incredible tutor! We are so appreciative of Applerouth for matching us with her. We are thrilled with the help and leadership she has provided to our daughters, who adore her. She is truly wonderful."

Lynda joined Applerouth in 2016, bringing over 20 years of experience as a Montessori high school math and science teacher. With a BS in Biology and a PhD in Biophysical Chemistry from Georgia State University, Lynda combines deep expertise with a patient, reassuring approach. She describes her tutoring style as student-centered and adaptive: "I excel when I work one-on-one, adjusting to each student's learning style." Inspired by her children, Lynda left science research to pursue teaching. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, yoga, drawing, and gardening, and as an ordained Zen Buddhist monk, she values balance and inspiration in her life.

“Lynda, I just wanted to reach out and share what an impact you are having on my daughter’s academic success this semester. She is getting a ‘super A’ in AP Pre-Calculus and feels confident about her upcoming SAT test.”

A triple-major graduate of Emory University in Religion, History, and Art, John holds an MA in Religious Studies and an MAT in Teaching with a focus on Social Studies. Since joining Applerouth in 2009, John has become a sought-after Executive Functioning coach and a stand-out tutor, known for helping students build systems for success and think like test writers. He explains, “The difference between a high score and a perfect score is the difference between thinking like a test-taker and a test-writer.” As Applerouth’s Director of Training, John develops programs and trains educators nationwide on using Appleruth’s curriculum and methods. Outside of work, he enjoys writing comics, studying pedagogy, and spending time with his family.

“My son received his ACT scores today and finally got that 35! He did especially well in English, the section he focused on most with you. Thanks again for all of your time and expertise with the test prep. We’ll be sending our other son your way in a few years!”