Mentoring Matters
• Matthew Petrafetta founded Academic Approach in 2001 after valuing transformative mentors in literature and psychology.
• He aims to replicate that coaching DNA for students’ academic growth.
Passion-Driven Learning
• Tutors “meet the student where they are,” linking content to interests (music, math, literature).
• “From curiosity comes interest…success”—personalization boosts commitment.
Start Early & Space Learning
• Ideal to begin SAT/ACT prep in 10th grade—students see 3× more score growth vs. starting spring of junior year.
• Tests cover 7th–11th grade curriculum; spaced practice beats cramming.
Diagnostic-First Strategy
• Every student takes a practice SAT (out of 1600) and ACT (out of 36).
• Choose the test where score is higher and the student feels more confident.
SAT vs. ACT, No Bias
• All U.S. colleges accept either test equally—regional preferences disappeared years ago.
• “Standardized tests are one thing; students are not.” Personal fit matters.
Test-Optional Reality
• Many schools now require or “highly prefer” scores to compare GPAs across varied high-school scales.
• Strong scores can unlock merit aid (e.g., $250K National Merit Scholarship, auto-admit thresholds).
Building Confidence & Skills
• One-on-one tutoring treats teens as intellectuals, improving scores, skills, and self-belief.
• Skills transfer: students report college essays and even the MCAT benefitting from test-prep training.
Next Steps
• Complimentary diagnostics and consultations at academicapproach.com
• Personalized plans follow only after student buy-in and goal-setting.
Connect with Shellee Howard:
Website
YouTube
Instagram
LinkedIn
Email: shellee@collegereadyplan.com
Connect with Matthew Pietrafetta:
Website
YouTube
Instagram
LinkedIn
Email: matthew.pietrafetta@academicapproach.com
