New York City-based tutor specializing in standardized test prep and academic coaching

Dana Gordon is an experienced tutor who excels at working with students across a wide range of personalities and skill levels. She quickly identifies each student’s learning style, strengths, and areas for growth, allowing her to teach complex material with clarity and build customized effective strategies.

Dana is especially skilled at helping students build confidence, manage test anxiety, and reach their academic goals in high-pressure environments.

Dana began tutoring at Johns Hopkins, where she led intensive SAT prep courses for Baltimore public school students through the Center for Social Concern. In addition to teaching content and strategy, she provided mentorship and guidance on the college admissions process. She later served as a teaching assistant in both economics and international relations, deepening her instructional experience across disciplines.

After completing her master’s degree, Dana received advanced training in test prep and academic strategy at a top-tier tutoring agency. She has personally scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT, ACT, and GMAT.

College Entrance Exams

SAT, ACT

Graduate School Exams

GRE, GMAT

Academic Subjects

Expository Writing, Political Science, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Statistics, AP Language and Composition, Algebra I, Algebra II

Specializations

Private Tutor

New York City | 2020 – Present

  • Work with a select number of private clients in SAT/ACT preparation and academic support

  • Known for discretion, rigor, and strong long-term relationships built through word-of-mouth

  • Maintain high student outcomes through customized instruction and targeted strategy

  • On average, students capture 72% of the SAT points available after their initial score (~195-point gain) and 76% of ACT points (~11-point gain)

Standardized Test Prep & Academic Tutor

Advantage Testing & Private Practice | New York City | 2020 – Present

  • Specialize in SAT, ACT, GMAT and GRE preparation for students from top private schools

  • Provide tailored academic support in math, reading, writing, and executive functioning

  • Recognized for combining rigor and warmth to build confidence and achieve measurable results

Teaching Assistant – International Relations

Johns Hopkins SAIS | 2016 – 2018

  • Led discussions and supported instruction for graduate-level courses in international relations and political theory.

Teaching Assistant – Microeconomics

Johns Hopkins University | 2013 – 2014

  • Supported undergraduate instruction, facilitated review sessions, and mentored students in core economics concepts

Early Career – Education & Strategy Roles

  • Taught SAT prep for Baltimore public school students through Johns Hopkins’ Center for Social Concern. Developed curriculum and mentored students from underserved backgrounds.

Experience

Education

MA – International Relations & Economics

Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies | Graduated with High Distinction

Completed graduate coursework in economics, international policy, and political theory at a top global affairs program.

BA – Political Science & Economics

Johns Hopkins University | Magna Cum Laude

Earned dual majors with honors. Focused on political analysis, economic systems, and writing-intensive research.

High School Diploma

Fieldston School

Graduated from a competitive independent school in New York City with a strong humanities and ethics-based curriculum.