Meet Our Team | Expert Counselors & Tutors

Our Experts

Meet the Experts Behind Our Students' Success

Our instructors bring a rare blend of academic expertise and personal mentorship, ensuring that every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired.

Ben Zoffness

Founder and President Read bio

Ben holds a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and then went on to receive his M.B.A. to pursue his entrepreneurial ambitions. He began tutoring students 25 years ago and has, since then, mastered the SAT and ACT strategies required to score in the 99th percentile. Ben has helped thousands of students maximize their academic performance with confidence. Inspired by the challenges of SAT vs ACT assessment, Ben created and developed Zoffness College Prep's proprietary software which provides a comprehensive online analysis, complete with statistical data and insight, of each student's strengths and weaknesses to determine which test is the best fit. This program has saved valuable time for students and reduced the cost for clients. His company provides classroom and individualized instruction, within a multitude of subject areas with a focus on innovative solutions, which allows students to grow personally and professionally. His motivation is continuously fueled by celebratory phone calls and emails from his clients sharing that they gained acceptance into their top collegiate choices, which is often paired with merit-based scholarships.

Ben Hartman

Program Director Read bio

A language arts specialist, Ben earned his Ph.D. from the University of Chicago, where he was a Jacob K. Javits Fellow and a top instructor with the university's Writing Program. Over the past seven years, his teaching has helped students achieve their highest potential in the Verbal sections of the ISEE, SSAT, SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT exams, as well as college essay writing. Ben's focus on building mastery of core strategies, modeling positive feedback, and inspiring self-confidence has delivered outsized results across a broad range of ages, backgrounds, and ability levels. By adapting his approach to fit the unique needs of each student, he has helped students place in the 99th percentile of test takers and go on to study at universities including Princeton, NYU, Brown, and the University of Chicago. Outside of the classroom, Ben enjoys backpacking, playing piano, and spending time with his four nieces and nephews.

Caiden Leavitt

SAT/ACT Specialist, AP Language, AP Literature, Literature Subject Test, and College Essays Read bio

Caiden graduated from Cornell University with a B.A. in English Literature. Upon graduation, she worked at the prestigious Windward School which specializes in language based learning disabilities, where she was intensively trained in PAF (Preventing Academic Failure) and TBWS (Teaching Basic Writing Skills). Since then, she has worked for several years with students of all ability levels on standardized test prep. Many of Caiden's students have gone on to earn scores that were above their target score and even into the 99th percentile. She also specializes in college essays and has helped many of her students get into the college of their choice. In addition to her work as a tutor, Caiden has developed an extensive standardized test prep curriculum and worked with parents directly to evaluate their students' needs and to help them find an instructor who is the best fit for their child. She knows that so much of the academic success of the student depends on the relationship with their instructors and is committed to helping students find instructors that make them feel both safe and challenged. Caiden believes that test prep is a skill that can be learned and does not set any limits on what students can achieve.

James Short

SAT/ACT Language Arts, PSAT, SHSAT, TACHS, & ISEE Specialist Read bio

James graduated from Boston College with a B.A. in both English and Political Science. He completed multiple Master’s degrees in Education and School Leadership while pursuing his teaching career. James has been teaching English at Mamaroneck High School since 2003, specializing in AP English and college writing, and he currently serves as Department Chair. Throughout his career, James has enjoyed working with thousands of students, helping them to cultivate their strengths and push through obstacles. He has extensive experience tutoring students of all different abilities and looks forward to sharing his expertise. Whether it is helping students to revise an AP essay, write a college essay, or prepare for an upcoming exam, James has a wide range of strategies for all students. James believes that standardized tests are a unique opportunity for students to showcase their potential, and he is eager to guide students through the process, from preparation to mastery. In addition to presenting at national conferences, James is active in school leadership organizations throughout the county. James has been involved in youth sports for more than 20 years, coaching soccer, baseball, and golf.

Joshua Asen

SAT/ACT Specialist Read bio

Joshua is an experienced private tutor, former public school teacher (NYC Teaching Fellow), and linguist with over 30 years of teaching experience (and 5 foreign languages under his belt). Joshua grew up in Mamaroneck and attended Central, Hommocks and MHS, graduating with honors and 5 AP credits. Joshua went on to Brown University, where he concentrated in Music History and French language (earning department Honors for his senior thesis); subsequently, Joshua earned a Master's in Education (TESOL) as a NYC Teaching Fellow, while teaching ESL and Language Arts for 4 years in a NYC public school. Joshua has also tutored privately in French, Hebrew, and Arabic, as well as SAT Prep and College Essay consulting for 20 years, and has served as an Alumni admissions interviewer for Brown University. In addition to his work in education, Joshua is a documentary filmmaker and has produced several films and TV series, with a focus on the environment, wildlife, STEM and youth culture. Joshua loves to share his passion for music and film, as a way to engage high school students, and to custom-tailor lesson plans that boost students' confidence while strengthening skills. Joshua teaches the English & Reading sections of the SAT and ACT, as well as AP French and other subject tests. When he's not teaching, Joshua is a father, amateur farmer, and yoga lover.

Kate Dowling

SAT/ACT Language Arts, AP US History/AP World History, & College Essay Specialist Read bio

Kate is a passionate and experienced high school teacher, tutor, and seasoned writing coach. Over the last 20 years, she has equipped students with the skills, techniques and strategies to achieve success in school, on standardized tests, and in life beyond the classroom. Kate holds a B.A., cum laude, from Colgate University in both History and Education, and was the captain of the Colgate University Rowing team. Shortly thereafter, she received her M.A.T. from Teachers College, Columbia University. Kate has been teaching at Rye High School since 2003, where she has taught various social studies classes, including AP World History and AP US History. She is also a writing coach who has helped many students throughout all aspects of the essay writing process. Kate's passion for sports has led her to coach basketball, soccer, and volleyball at the high school and middle school levels. The lessons from athletics – specifically the importance of determination, and the belief in oneself – have guided Kate throughout many walks of life. She takes pride in creating a learning environment that minimizes anxiety and maximizes opportunities for students to achieve success. Because many students view standardized tests as roadblocks on the path to success, Kate makes an effort to reframe that view, and help her students stay loose, stay calm, and approach exams with confidence.

Peter O'Byrne

SAT/ACT, Algebra I/Algebra II/Trigonometry, Microeconomics/Macroeconomics, & World History Specialist Read bio

Peter graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown University where he earned a B.A. in Mathematics and Economics. Shortly thereafter, he received an M.A. in Secondary Education from National-Louis University. Peter began his career in education at Bogan High School, in Chicago IL, and then spent nine years teaching at KIPP NYC College Prep High School in the Bronx, where he also coached their varsity football team. Peter has worked with Zoffness College Prep since 2015, and helped countless students significantly increase their SAT and ACT scores, in both Mathematics and Language Arts, through proven motivational and academic techniques. He is New York State certified in both Social Studies and Mathematics, and currently teaches Economics at Mamaroneck High School while coaching the MHS varsity football team.

Our Story

About Zoffness College Prep

Since 2005, Zoffness College Prep has supported thousands of families in navigating the landscape of academic growth and college preparation. We believe that through personalized instruction, every student can develop the skills necessary to transform potential into achievement.

Our accomplished educators and admissions specialists provide expert guidance, practical strategies, and individualized attention, empowering students to pursue their academic goals with confidence and succeed at every step of their education.

Our Approach

Where Personalized Learning Meets Potential

Our personalized methodology guides students through every step of their academic journey.

Our Philosophy

At Zoffness College Prep, we believe that true academic preparation goes beyond any single test. Our approach is grounded in helping students unlock their unique strengths, discover their authentic selves, and pursue opportunities where they can truly thrive.

We emphasize personal growth, academic excellence, and strategic planning to empower students not just to succeed, but to excel with purpose. Through an individualized approach, we ensure that every student builds the skills, confidence, and mindset necessary for success—in the classroom and beyond.

Our Methodology

Zoffness College Prep has developed a proven, four-phase methodology for college preparation that has helped thousands of students achieve their goals.

Discovery and Assessment

We begin by getting to know each student—their academic profile, extracurricular interests, personal values, and college aspirations.

Comprehensive academic assessment
Interest and values exploration
College preference analysis

Strategic Planning

Based on our assessment, we develop a personalized roadmap that outlines the specific steps and timeline for the student's college preparation journey.

Customized college preparation timeline
Test preparation strategy
Extracurricular development plan

Implementation and Guidance

We provide hands-on support and expert guidance as students execute their college preparation plan.

One-on-one counseling sessions
Test preparation tutoring
Essay writing support

Application Submission and Decision Support

We help students finalize their applications and guide them through the decision-making process once acceptances arrive.

Application review and polishing
Interview preparation
College decision guidance

Core Principles

Personalized Attention

We maintain small student-to-counselor ratios to ensure each student receives the individual attention they deserve.

Educational Excellence

We emphasize academic growth and intellectual development, not just application strategy.

Strategic Fit

We help students find colleges where they will thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Authentic Presentation

We guide students to present their genuine selves in applications, not manufactured versions they think colleges want to see.

Our Difference

Why Choose Zoffness College Prep?

Deep Admissions Expertise

Our counselors include former admissions officers from top universities who understand what it takes to craft a successful application from the inside.

Personalized Approach

Zoffness College Prep's tutors take the time to understand each student's unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations to provide truly individualized guidance.

Proven Track Record

Our students consistently gain admission to their top-choice schools, with 95% being accepted to at least one of their top three college choices.

Holistic Support

Beyond applications, we mentor students in developing the skills and mindset needed for long-term academic and personal success.

Testimonials

Community Feedback

Read what our students and parents have to say about their experience with Zoffness College Prep.

Student & Parent Testimonials

We're proud of the positive impact we've had on our students' academic journeys. Here's what our community has to say about their experience with us.

"Highly recommend Zoffness College Prep for anyone navigating the college application process. The team truly goes above and beyond - with their knowledge, support, and genuine investment in their students' success."

Madalina Student

"Ben and his staff are all amazing. He worked with both of my boys and was able to increase their scores significantly. I highly recommend Zoffness Test Prep."

Deena Glassman Parent

"As a first time parent going through the process, I didn't know where to begin. Working with Zoffness was one of the best decisions we made. The team created a plan tailored to the strengths, goals, and interests of my son. He was accepted to his top choices, including reach schools that the team recommended. I feel totally prepared to do this all over again with my daughter thanks to Zoffness and I definitely plan to utilize their expertise once again!"

Tara Felice Parent

"Zoffness College Prep was a game-changer for me. My SAT tutor was incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging. The strategies I learned not only helped me improve my scores but also gave me the confidence I needed."

Joseph Lopez Student

"We had an exceptional experience with Zoffness College Prep! Ben and his team took a truly personalized approach, carefully matching my son with a tutor who fit his personality and learning style perfectly. This thoughtful pairing made all the difference, keeping him engaged and motivated throughout the process. The expertise and dedication of the tutors were evident, and the results spoke for themselves. I highly recommend Zoffness College Prep to any family looking for top-notch academic support!"

Gabby Kelly Parent

"My daughter is having a wonderful experience with Zoffness. It has been a completely personalized experience that has already yielded meaningful results. The tutors clicked with my daughter to the extent that she actually wanted to go to the tutoring sessions. Everyone has been an absolute pleasure to work with, including the owner, Ben Zoffness. He and Ben Hartman have both made this experience very easy. Thank you!"

Alan Music Parent

"An exceptional personal experience and boosted score outcome for our second son. Ben and his team build authentic personal relationships and effectively play the role of testing coach to optimize your child's potential outcome. We used the test prep competition for our first son and much preferred the overall experience with the Zoffness personalized approach. We will return to Zoffness for our third son. Highly recommend!"

Elene Spanakos-Weis Parent

"Ben Zoffness helped both of our children achieve their potential in college testing, one on the ACT and the other on the SAT. The Zoffness tutors are real educators and specialists. We have worked with other local tutoring agencies that employ recent college graduates…smart kids but not the same quality of coaching and attention you get from the Zoffness team."

Erica Gordon Parent

"Over the last few years both my daughter and my son received tutoring from Ben and his dedicated team on ACT prep and also help with fine tuning their college essays. Ben and his team were instrumental in helping them prep for and improve their ACT scores. My kids loved Ben's enthusiastic and analytical approach. He knows how to get through to every kind of personality and get the most out of young minds. We can highly recommend Zoffness College Prep!"

Doreen Hanrahan Parent

Let Our Team Be Your Team