Sanjana Saxena

Biography

I grew up in Chicago, New York, the Bay Area, and India—an upbringing that gave me a broad perspective on education and a deep appreciation for diverse ways of thinking and learning. Attending an academically demanding high school in the Bay Area gave me firsthand insight into the pressures students here face: balancing rigorous coursework, extracurricular activities, and standardized test preparation. I went on to earn my B.S. in Applied Economics and Management from Cornell University, where I was inducted into the Cornell Honor Society. At Cornell, I thrived in a challenging and collaborative environment that sharpened my analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and capacity to break down complex concepts into clear, manageable parts—tools that would later define my approach as a tutor.

My interest in tutoring grew from years of mentoring peers, coaching colleagues, and leading training sessions in my professional roles. I discovered how rewarding it is to help someone move from uncertainty to understanding. I’m particularly drawn to the SAT because it integrates skills I’ve long enjoyed—critical reading, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing—while requiring strategic thinking and adaptability. Having guided learners in economics, math, and writing, I’ve developed an approach rooted in patience, adaptability, and precision. In our 1-on-1 sessions, I combine targeted content review with strategy drills, timed practice, and error analysis. My goal is not just to raise scores, but to help students develop pacing strategies, problem-solving techniques, and the test-day confidence that carries into college and beyond.

Over the years, my experience has ranged from professional mentoring in venture capital and consulting, to leading internal trainings in data analysis, strategy, and communication, to informal academic tutoring for peers. These roles taught me that each learner’s success depends on meeting them exactly where they are and creating a space where they feel comfortable asking questions and learning from mistakes. I leverage the 1-on-1 format to tailor each lesson to a student’s strengths, interests, and goals, ensuring they leave each session more confident than when they arrived.

Outside of tutoring, I enjoy tap dancing, visiting local artisanal coffee shops, and exploring different art forms—origami and watercolor have been long-time passions. I also love discovering new neighborhoods in search of hidden bookstores, weekend markets, and scenic walking paths. Having lived in multiple regions and studied in both the U.S. and abroad, I bring cultural awareness, empathy, and a genuine commitment to helping each student find their own “aha” moments.