About Elena

Elena Zifkin | Founder & Coach

Elena began tutoring in 2014 as an editor in the Williams College Essay Center, and has been an independent college prep tutor since 2018. She knows test prep and application essays aren’t always fun, so she makes sure to connect on a personal level with her students to make them feel truly seen, heard, and supported. She wants her students to walk away from each session feeling happy and confident — like they just spent time learning something new from a good friend.

She received her BA in Sociology from Williams College, and she later earned her Certified Professional Coach (CPC) certification in adolescent coaching from the Institute of Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC). She is also a certified yoga instructor who is skilled in mindfulness and stress reduction strategies.

When she is not with her students, she loves to be outside. She is currently a mentor for Explore Austin, where she works with a group of teen girls from 6th to 12th grade as they navigate the outdoors. Through guided outdoor activities, she helps teens strengthen their capacity for comfort in new environments.

“Not only has Elena taught me so much about what good test taking looks like, she has taught me more about myself and what it means to be a positive person in a negative leaning world.” — Natalie W., College Prep Student