Resources and help for students

By: Cici Colvin

Posted: 2/3/08

Students who shy away from visiting the Learning Center because they don't want to be labeled "dumb" or are embarrassed of their confusion aren't alone.

Russell Wolf, a math and computer science tutor, wants students to know "tutors are non-judgmental people" and are willing to cater to both "capabilities and disabilities."

Said math tutor Craig Wolfe: "I guarantee you're not the worst student I've encountered."

He encourages apprehensive students to give the Learning Center a try. "A lot of people think tutors are uptight, but we're here to help you," he said. "And since you're paying for it anyway, you might as well come."

The cost of tutoring is factored in with tuition charges.

Tutors offer tips to help students make the most of their tutoring time.

"Make an effort to try things out before you come in," Wolfe said. "Even if you're doing things wrong, it's still an effort. If you come in with nothing, you'll leave with nothing."

Accounting tutor Peggy O'Malley suggests students should "come with specific questions" when they seek the help of tutors.

Students like biology major Diana Hernandez have taken note of this advice and thrived.

Hernandez, who is tutored in math, said, "I've been an 'A' student throughout my life. A way to keep that 'A' is to come here when I have questions."

She said her math skills have improved "a lot" since she began coming to the Learning Center.