Subject Tutoring
ACT/SAT Prep
Self Study Help
We have an awesome study lounge!
College Advising
Less Like a Cram School
More Like A FAMILY
OUR PHILOSOPHY
The Study Co. aims to deliver an educational experience that is both functional and meaningful for students. Functional, in the sense it prepares students for college admissions. Meaningful, in the sense it helps students develop genuine aspirations, giving purpose to their education.
College is important, and as an extension, so are GPAs and test scores. But if we assume education’s sole purpose is college admission, teaching will inevitably degrade into a heartless exercise of cramming facts and formulas, and in turn students will struggle to be anything more than test scores and GPAs.
Education can be so much more than that. It should instill a sense of direction for students, inspire the discovery new passions, and enrich their lives. Education is more than just improving scores. Education is an experience.
Mr. Cha graduated from the University of Chicago in 2014 and has over 14 years of experience in teaching students for standardized tests and AP-level courses in school. He began his career in education working in Chicago Public schools as a Teaching Intern and in various tutoring centers as an after-school instructor. In 2013, he founded The Study Co. with the help of a few friends equally passionate about education. The goal was simple: create a supplementary educational model that was effective functionally and genuinely meaningful for students.
Jae Min Cha- Founder & Teacher
Harrison Welshimer - Program Director
Harrison has always chased challenges—whether performing as one of the top saxophone players in the university competition circuit, fighting wildfires in the mountains of Wyoming, or teaching English in rural Cambodia with the Peace Corps. Now, he brings that same drive to helping students master English.
With a Master’s in International Policy Management and experience in federal service, education, and data analysis, he understands how to break down complex ideas and make learning engaging. He’s worked with students of all backgrounds, from high schoolers aiming for top ACT/SAT scores to professionals sharpening their communication skills. His approach is practical, interactive, and built around real-world application—because learning should be useful, not just theoretical.
If you’re looking for a tutor who knows how to challenge, inspire, and get results, you’ve found him.
Admission Team
With a background in Education and 8 years of experience guiding students, I strive to offer more than just exam preparation, focusing on meaningful learning experiences. I maintain close communication with parents to ensure students grow academically while discovering their own goals and passions. By carefully identifying each student's strengths and weaknesses, I provide personalized learning that goes beyond improving grades, aiming to enrich their lives through education. Our academy is not just a "cram school," but a family-like space that fosters growth and provides direction for students.
Director Jin
Our Teachers
Zoe Ann
Brendan Ehle
Dr. Jin Ho Cha
Stella Choi
Shiraz Monir
Chris Lee
Bryan Irlbeck
Bryan Irlbeck
Tommy Ngo
Jacqueline Gore