Dr. Kristina Benson
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Skills
Academic coaching, Essay coaching, Portfolio Development, Application Assistance, Private Tutoring, Research, Writing
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Professional Appointments and Teaching Experience
Independent Tutor/Essay Coach / Academic Mentor
2010- PRESENT
Strategizes with and mentors students through the drafting and introspection process for college application essays and application packages, resulting in admissions to elite institutions including Yale, Dartmouth, UC Berkeley, Emory, Scripps, USC, and Pitzer.
Coaches students in high-stakes competitive writing, leading to top placements in prestigious national contests such as the Harvard High School Economics Essay Competition, NCTE Achievement Awards, JFK Profiles in Courage, the New York Times Open Letter Contest, and Scholastic Gold Key Awards.
Develops and implements targeted study plans for high achieving students taking exams in AP History, Government, Literature, and Language exams, with the vast majority of students achieving scores of 4 or 5.
AR Academics / Tutor
2015-2020
Dr. Benson coached students on their college application essays, tutored students in AP subjects, and assisted with developing and implementing end of year AP review classes.
Pitzer College / Visiting Lecturer
2013-2014
Developed curricula and gave lectures on advanced topics spanning the disciplines of anthropology, history, and law. Engaged with students in interactive discussions to foster a deeper understanding of cultural and academic concepts.
University of California, Los Angeles / Teaching Associate
2007-2014
In her role as a Teaching Associate across several UCLA departments, Dr. Benson assisted with assessment and rubric development and student guidance in a competitive academic environment. Evaluated students' performance and provided feedback to improve their understanding and retention of course material. Provided feedback on student progress and supported students and professors in their respective roles.
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Education
University of California, Los Angeles / DPhil
While completing her doctorate, Dr. Benson served as managing editor of a law journal and published over a dozen peer reviewed articles in prestigious academic and law school journals. She can provide a list of her publications upon request.
University of California, Irvine / B.A., B.M.
Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa, National Hispanic Honor Society
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Awards
While pursuing her doctorate, Dr. Benson was awarded many prestigious research grants. List available upon request.
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Languages
English - fluent
Spanish - C1/B2
French - B1
Mandarin - HSK2; currently pursuing proficiency
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Hobbies and Interests
Learning Mandarin, jogging, hiking, playing the lever harp, fiber arts, weight-lifting.