College Tutoring

Originally from Scotland, Tessa moved to the U.S. in 2001 after earning a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of Aberdeen. She completed postdoctoral research at Boston University and worked as a research scientist at Tufts Medical Center. Tessa spent ten years as an educator at the Museum of Science, where she honed a knack for breaking complex topics into simple, engaging pieces. She joined Summit as a tutor in 2015 and makes sessions productive and enjoyable, using a touch of humor to ease test prep. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, biking, camping, skiing, and traveling.

A Summit tutor since 2017, Paul specializes in math and science, as well as standardized test preparation. Known for his relaxed approach and high standards, he helps students build confidence while mastering challenging material. Paul holds a PhD in Philosophy from Boston University and teaches as an adjunct faculty member at Clark University and The College of the Holy Cross in Worcester. Outside of tutoring, he enjoys rock climbing, reading, and the continued pursuit of truth.

Graduating summa cum laude from Middlebury College, Paige has tutored with Summit since 2020. She takes a supportive and enthusiastic approach, especially with students facing anxiety, confidence, or perfectionism. Pursuing a PhD in Counseling Psychology at Fordham, she researches mental health in the workplace. In her free time, she enjoys singing, musical theater, video games, and winter beach visits.

Marvin has been a Summit tutor since 2004 and spent 12 years as a Senior Program Director, guiding families through the standardized-testing landscape. A former attorney focused on estate and business planning, he graduated magna cum laude from Boston University with a degree in English Literature and holds a JD from Suffolk University Law School and an LLM in Taxation from Boston University. Outside tutoring, Marvin values time with his family—including four grandchildren—has completed 25 marathons, and is active in his synagogue’s adult education programs.

A Summit tutor since 2022, Nick brings decades of experience in test preparation and is known for his patient, engaging style. He helps students strengthen core skills, clarify challenging concepts, and build the confidence needed to perform at a high level. A graduate of Columbia University with a degree in literature, Nick has taught and tutored students around the world since 2003. His approach combines clear explanation with humor and encouragement, making complex material accessible. Outside of tutoring, he enjoys traveling and draws on his international experiences to connect with students from diverse backgrounds.

In addition to her role as an Elite Tutor, Zdenka serves as Summit’s Assistant Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Training. She joined Summit in 2007 and has contributed in multiple roles, including Adjunct Instructor in Biology at Cambridge College. She holds a BA in Anthropology from Harvard, where she received the Detur Prize and a Center for European Studies grant. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring abstract algebra and number theory.