Student Testimonials: College Applications
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S.N. from Princeton, NJ
I just found out I got into Brown! I am on tour with band and the hotel had to call security because I screamed so loud. This has been the best day. Thank you so so much for helping me get here. I am so so excited and could not have done it without you! You made this entire process so much kinder and less intimidating.
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R.L. from Bryn Mawr, PA
I am ecstatic to share that I will be attending NYU Tisch School of the Arts in the fall and I am so grateful that I had you by my side to help translate my narrative into an authentic, eloquent, and purposeful application! I cannot imagine navigating the college process without your brilliant guidance and support.
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B.A. from Wayne, PA
Abigail, I just wanted to thank you so much for working with me this year!!! With all of our sessions and long hours during winter break & more, I got into Cornell SHA, Penn, Dartmouth, Notre Dame, UVA, Washington and Lee, Wake Forest, Middlebury, Colgate, Georgia, Clemson, & Richmond!
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H.M. from Sudbury, MA
Thank you so much for all the help this year with my college essays. Many of my friends, who on paper seem more qualified than I, got into a lot fewer schools than I did. I know it was my essays that set me apart!
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C.A. from Chicago, IL
Thank you so much for helping me get into Princeton! With your guidance, I was able to articulate my story in a unique and genuine way that made the difference in my application.
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M.M. from Wayne, PA
I’m incredibly happy to announce that today I got into Tufts!!!!! Thank you so much for all the help - all that writing and brainstorming definitely paid off! Once again, thank you so so so so much for all you’ve done. I actually had fun writing college essays, which I didn’t think was possible
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B.A. from Malvern, PA
I’m super excited to say I plan on attending Dartmouth college next year! I feel forever grateful for your inspiration on so many essay topics and your help with focusing my academic interests.
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S.G. from Radnor, PA
I got into the University of Notre Dame Gateway program!! I just committed yesterday after visiting this weekend and I absolutely loved it!! Super happy with the results and I actually had the person from Notre Dame tell me my essays were a huge part in accepting me so thank you so so so much!!
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R.W. from Malvern, PA
I wanted to reach out and thank you so much for all the help you gave me during my application process. I have been accepted into Boston College, Villanova, and tonight I was accepted into Notre Dame which I will be attending. I’m so grateful for your assistance and so happy that the hard work paid off!! Thank you again for all the help!
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S.F. from Newton, MA
The most daunting part of my college process was not deciding where to apply or studying for standardized tests; it was writing the essays. I had no idea where to start or how to approach them, and that is where Abigail came in. Her help was exactly what I needed; she helped me come up with essay topics and took away the stress actually sitting down and writing.
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G.K. from Newton, MA
I wanted to let you know that I got off the waitlist at MIT so I will be going there next year! Thank you for helping me with my essays too because I know those were vital for their decision.
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Z.J. from Center Valley, PA
I just wanted to thank you for all the help you gave me with the college admissions process. You helped me show Georgetown who I truly am as a person, which I believe is key to making my application stand out. I also came out of our experience together as a better writer with a greater ability to express myself.
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C.J. from Radnor, PA
Working with Abigail was instrumental in not only getting into Duke (my number one school) but also in allowing me (and my parents) to maintain a general peace of mind throughout the whole college process. Abigail’s insightful suggestions and honest criticism are valuable resources for anybody staring down the daunting application process.
Parent Testimonials: College and Prep School Applications
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S.M. from Charlotte, NC
The relationship you build with young adults is even more important than the work you do with them on the applications. You’ve become part of our family by creating powerful connections with each of our children and giving them confidence about why they are special. My kids say you made the painful work of essay writing fun and they have commented to me that you are always upbeat and transparent with them. Stern but relaxed. Focused but fun. Thank you!
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P.K. from Reading, MA
This has been a tough year for admissions. Kids are not getting their top choices. But J-- did! Got in to Georgetown yesterday. So THANK YOU!!!! She received a personal note from Colgate complimenting her passion for dance. That’s the essay! You are so good at what you do.
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M.A. from Deerfield, MA
I want you to know we sing your praises here in our house!!!! You have done an amazing job with L-- drawing out these stories and experiences and then helping her compose them in a clear, engaging and smart way. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Truly. There is so much to be stressed about in this process that to have you be a steady, kind, knowledgeable partner was invaluable.
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B.L. from Wayne, PA
Just a quick note to say wow! Peter’s Covid essay is a thing of beauty, and the spin you put on his activities, was absolutely amazing!
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J.E. from Radnor, PA
You were exactly what J needed to get through this transfer application process…. also a life coach in some ways. I just wanted to reach out and say thank you. She is going to be attending William & Mary in the fall, thanks to you, and couldn’t be more thrilled!!
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W. M. from Boulder, CO
I just wanted you to know that this process from my standpoint has been so amazing. S-- comes away from meetings with you lit up and energized. THAT is worth a million hours. When I get to read something that he has written and see his realizations about where he’s at right now and where he’s come from, it truly brings tears to my eyes. It’s priceless seeing him find his voice. Deep gratitude. It’s a true gem in this harrowing process of entering adulthood.
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S.D. from Charlotte, NC
Just got off the phone with M-- and Washington & Lee offered him a place. They said his admissions pre-read was one of the best they have seen all year!!
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S.D. from Wayne, PA
We want you to know how much you have been meant to our daughter throughout her essay writing and college application process. You have built her confidence and helped her to represent her thoughts and ideas. We are confident this made a difference and contributed to her admission into a number of her top choices.
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G.J. from Wayne, PA
Abigail, I’ve been reading about the college admission scandal and it made me think to send you this message: We appreciate what you did for our sons H-- and A--. You helped them understand who they are. You challenged them to express themselves clearly. You encouraged them to evaluate their own work. They improved and developed as a result.
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K.G. from Malvern, PA
Thank you so much for making this process fun. N-- said she can't imagine doing these essays on her own. She was telling us that the experience is far more enjoyable because she is working with you. We are extremely grateful for you help.
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B.S. from Washington, NJ
Thank you for helping S-- and making this college essay process so painless for her. She’s relieved that this essay writing is off of her plate so she can enjoy her activities and focus on her schoolwork!
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N.F. from Newton, MA
You provided just the right amount of guidance with our daughter, helping her develop her college essays while maintaining her own voice within them.
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P.K. from Reading, PA
S-- has really enjoyed working with you on her essay and really appreciates the help. She told me that H-- just raved about you (which is unusual for him) and now she knows why! So THANK YOU! I thought it might be nice to have teenagers say you are good at your job and they like talking to you!
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B.S. from Washington, NJ
V-- has been accepted to her #1 choice college. She is over the moon with excitement. Many thanks for your encouragement, support, and guidance as V-- worked on her essays. The approach you took allowed her clarity of thought and an organization of her ideas, which she's continued to employ on calls with admissions, coaches, and in her overall school work.
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S.N. from Northampton, MA
Abigail has made this process an extremely enjoyable one for our daughter and for us. She started with so much anxiety but ended up really enjoying the process of writing the essays. Abigail took the time to make our daughter dig deep and find that specific trait that sets her apart. She helped our daughter discover many wonderful qualities of herself which is so important not only in the application process, but in her life!
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B.S. from Malvern, PA
G’s success was simply wonderful, particularly with Penn and Dartmouth where the numbers are daunting. You let the kids dream and visualize and showed them how to effectively express those dreams, a rare talent and one which I really respect. We will all miss you in our family conversations: "Have to you talked to Abigail?", "What does Abigail think?", "How would Abigail say this?" but will not miss the stress of applying to college!
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C.C. from Newton, MA
Abigail helped my daughter understand her own uniqueness and supported her in writing a college essay that truly captured her spirit and identity. L— was accepted at her top three schools and will be attending Howard University in the fall!
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K.E. from Boston, MA
B—- was accepted at every school she applied to and is now is deciding between Milton Academy and Roxbury Latin. Thank you so much for the help in cultivating her writing skills! We hugely appreciate your support.
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A.E. from Philadelphia, PA
The boys really enjoyed talking to Abigail - at dinner tonight, they both described her as “really nice” and “easy to talk to.” R— said, “It’s just like talking normal,” meaning a regular conversation. Abigail definitely has a natural gift for talking to kids!
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V.T. from Council Rock, PA
Zack was amazing!!!!! My son loved the male perspective and Zack was able to get him out of shell. He was also responsive, kind and so smart!
Parent Testimonials: Writing and Academic Tutoring
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S.D. from Brookline, MA
I drive by your house all the time and fondly remember waiting outside for V--- to emerge saying, “I can do this.” Who do you call? Abigail Hillman.
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L.S. from Newton, MA
My child succeeded in writing for the first time in his academic career! He was excited and proud of organizing a writing assignment, expressing himself effectively, and receiving positive feedback from his teacher. Abigail allowed him to take responsibility for his tutoring but at the same time, she communicated effectively with us as parents to address our concerns and provide helpful, regular feedback.
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C.C. from Newton, MA
Abigail is the best. She knew exactly what my daughter needed to complete her Junior Thesis paper. The fact that she turned it in on time was huge. The final grade was another big win since her teacher has extremely high standards. This experience has boosted my daughter’s confidence tremendously. I cannot thank Abigail enough
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S.B. from Newton, MA
Abigail has an easygoing manner and relates well to teenagers. She made my son feel comfortable and drew him out. She combined high expectations with a sense of humor and an approachable manner; this mix worked well for both my son and for me. I highly recommend Abigail to other parents seeking a tutor.
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Phyliss Tawa, Private College Counselor from Newton, MA
Over the years I have sent many students to Abigail to work on their college essays. Not only have 100% enjoyed their work with her, but I, too, have been delighted with the final results. Abigail helps students find their own voice and craft an essay that truly portrays who they are.
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C.G. from Newton, MA
My son would not have graduated with his high school class without Abigail’s help. He had tried multiple tutors and a wide range of programs and interventions. Abigail’s unaffected warmth quickly won my son over. She is genuinely respectful and curious, focusing in on a student's strengths and identifying their vulnerabilities in an unpatronizing manner. His grades improved dramatically. Being able to complete his work and accumulate successful outcomes boosted his morale, his self-esteem and his outlook on his own future.
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T.K. from Newton, MA
Abigail, I wanted to let you know (in case A-- hasn’t) that he wound up with a B+ on his thesis and he was over the moon. Not only did he really learn the process of writing his research paper and organizing his thoughts but his efforts were rewarded.
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L.K. from Newton, MA
J-- just found out that his Junior Thesis has been nominated for the Kennedy Prize and he received an A on the paper! Thanks so much for guiding him in his effort. Your comments and suggestions made a significant difference in the quality of the final product. We are so pleased and proud.
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R.D. from Lexington, MA
My daughter’s experience working with you was exactly what I was hoping for: positive, productive and empowering. We feel so fortunate to have connected with you!
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B.S. from Brookline, MA
I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for your help. I know my daughter has very much enjoyed working with you and has remarked that not only did she learn a lot about a topic during the process but also believes she has developed a much better strategy for future paper writing. It made my day yesterday when she talked the entire ride home about Black nationalism and how she could write another paper on the topic!
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P.V. from Newton, MA
I don't know what we would do without you. As you know, this has been a difficult school year for my daughter health-wise and having you as a resource to help her keep up her endurance and focus has been invaluable.
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L.S. from Newton, MA
After his tutoring sessions, my son would exclaim, “Abigail is amazing. She helps me so much.”
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D.C. from Malvern, PA
I’m so excited. P—— is excited about reading for the first time in his ENTIRE YOUNG LIFE!!! He actually has started asking to read (on his own) before bed. I don’t have to BEG him to read for the first time ever. Thank you so much for all of your efforts-you have truly made a difference!!
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A.J. from Cleveland, OH
OMG! Aaron has improved so much since starting to work with Marcia, asking me more questions, involving himself in class more and carrying a more positive attitude! With only 53 points so far in this 4th quarter, he is earning a 95%! Now the secret is out—he CAN achieve higher scores while understanding his work and contributing to the class! I am so grateful to Marcia for spending so much time with him and pushing him. She has instilled so much confidence in Aaron.
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K.B. from Herndon, VA
We are SO grateful for Reese's SAT help this summer. C got her SAT scores back today and went from 92nd to 98th percentile! C said Reese was the best choice for her and she “actually enjoyed” practicing. Thanks for sharing her with us!
Student Testimonials: Writing and Academic Tutoring
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M.K. from Newton, MA
I have worked with a number of tutors and Abigail was by far the best. We worked both on my college essays and a number of research papers. She taught me how to approach a topic, break it down into manageable pieces, and construct a clear and concise essay. Now in my junior year of college, I still value the skills she taught me three years ago. She is incredibly approachable and accommodating. I would recommend her without any reservation.
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M.C. from Brookline, MA
The most important skill that I learned from working with Abigail is how to organize a paper. I now feel much more confident tackling a writing assignment in history or English because I know how to properly organize my thoughts. If I have extra work and need her assistance, Abigail always finds a way to make time for me.
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A.H. from Needham, MA
I started working with Abigail at the very beginning of my freshman year and I have definitely gained a lot of confidence! My relationship with Abigail is more than a tutor/student relationship. She listened when I was having troubles outside of school and gave advice that has helped me to this day.
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J.K. from Newton MA
Abigail guided me to make my topic sentences more germane to my thesis and to look at the overall organization of the paper – not always saving the best for last, but integrating the analysis throughout the work. I subsequently invested a large amount of time preparing my final draft and was thrilled when I learned I had won the Kennedy Prize [for best history] thesis at Newton North High School].
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S.H. from Weston, MA
Thanks to you, I got a perfect 5 on the AP World History Exam... Woo Hoo! Thank you again for all the effort that you put in for me and I really hope that I'll get to study with you again during my junior year!
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P.K. from Newton MA
I don't think there is a paper I have written [in college] where I don't draw upon lessons that you taught me.
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N.G. from Newton, MA
I can't tell you how helpful the writing we did in AP US was in preparing me for college, both the in-class and longer essays at home. Really. I spent the better part of my college education writing analytical papers and taking in-class essay exams. Not sure how I would have managed without that prep. Thanks.
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A.B. from Newton, MA
I got my report card and I got a 100% on my history final and a 99% on the paper you helped me outline! I'm really happy. In the comments, my English teacher said my writing has improved so much and my history teacher praised my secession paper!!!! Thank you so much, Abigail!!!
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A.A. from Newton, MA
I got back my first college essay via email 20 minutes ago and I got an A!!!! When I got the assignment, I thought about what we worked on. I made an outline and made sure each paragraph had a topic sentence that tied to the thesis. Without everything you taught me over the past year, there is no way I could have done as well as I did. I cannot remember the last time I got an A on a major essay.
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G.C. from Reading, PA
I absolutely love both essays. Thank you so much!!!! I feel so good about handing them in.
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K.T. from New Orleans, LA
I wanted to let you know that I received a 97.5 on my first substantial college paper using the outline template and note taking strategies I learned from our sessions. I cannot thank you enough for dealing with my stubbornness for 2+ years and hope this message finds you and your family in good health.
Adult Testimonials: Applications, Resumes/Cover Letters, Dating Profiles
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F.R. from New York, NY
I was accepted to Columbia Law early decision! Thank you so much again for helping me with both of my application essays. I was below both Columbia's median GPA and LSAT score, and having strong essays definitely helped my application and probably put me over the top.
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P.M. rabbinical student from Philadelphia, PA
Working with Abigail is a true pleasure! She is fun, patient, and very encouraging. She showed me how to get to the essence of who I am and helped make me shine in my resume. Her guidance is empowering. So far, everywhere I've sent my resume, I've been called in for an interview!
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R. J. from Atlanta, GA
It was an absolute pleasure working with Abigail on my resume. It is very evident that the work she does is her GIFT. The transformation of my resume felt like MAGIC. It now eloquently expresses who I am as a professional and a warm, compassionate person. I am excited to apply for new positions during this career transition stage. Thank you so much for gently pushing me past my comfort zone into a space of courage, confidence, and overall joy.
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G.O. from Radnor, PA
I must thank you profusely for your assistance this past spring in writing my application for the Stones and Bones summer program at the University of Chicago. I am pleased to report that in a few short days I will be leaving for Chicago to attend the program. I couldn't have done it without your excellent assistance and I thank you for helping me write my essay.
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B.D. from Medford, MA
Thank you again for all your help and guidance on my residency essays. I always love working with you… You have made me such a better writer!
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A.K. from Boston, MA
I never realized before how hard it is to write about yourself, especially if English is a second language. I got stuck writing my application to graduate at Boston College and Boston University. After reading my draft and conducting an interview, Abigail re-outlined the essay. After the first session I felt confident and inspired. The essay came up beautifully organized, smooth and it’s my own work, which I was very proud to submit with my admission application.
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L.L. from Wilmington, DE
I just wanted to reach out and say thank you so much for helping me write my personal statement for medical school! I am extremely grateful for all the advice and guidance that you provided! It was so great working with you and it just felt so effortless which was such a blessing because writing is something that is very difficult for me. Getting accepted is a dream come true!
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A.S. from Boston, MA
Abigail rewrote my dating profile and I met my husband! After years on and off dating sites, I was so disappointed with the men I was attracting that I was ready to give up. Instead, I asked for help. Abigail asked me questions about myself which felt like chatting with a girlfriend. She took a look at my profile and pointed out that I hadn’t captured the strengths and energies that make me special. Dialoguing with me as she worked, Abigail rewrote the profile, sprinkling it with details and specifics. She captured my passions, hopes, and values!
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R.D. from Lexington, MA
My daughter’s experience working with you was exactly what I was hoping for: positive, productive and empowering. We feel so fortunate to have connected with you!
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B.S. from Brookline, MA
I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for your help. I know my daughter has very much enjoyed working with you and has remarked that not only did she learn a lot about a topic during the process but also believes she has developed a much better strategy for future paper writing. It made my day yesterday when she talked the entire ride home about black nationalism and how she could write another paper on the topic!
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P.V. from Newton, MA
I don't know what we would do without you. As you know, this has been a difficult school year for my daughter health-wise and having you as a resource to help her keep up her endurance and focus has been invaluable.
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D.C. from Malvern, PA
I’m so excited. P—— is excited about reading for the first time in his ENTIRE YOUNG LIFE!!! He actually has started asking to read (on his own) before bed. I don’t have to BEG him to read for the first time ever. Thank you so much for all of your efforts-you have truly made a difference!!
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S.N. from New York, NY
I've been meeting with my faculty members one-on-one this past week learning more about the middle school and their thinking on things that work and things that can be improved. They've been great meetings and yesterday one of the teachers said, "I'm so happy you took the job. I knew from the minute I saw your resume that you would be the best candidate.”