Tutoring Services

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SPCC Virtual Academic Support Center

Tutoring Services

Tutoring is a proven method of academic intervention that produces higher levels of academic achievement, promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and improves graduation rates. Improve your grades and graduate faster by taking advantage of the free academic tutoring offered at SPCC.

Tutoring Policies

Having a tutor is a privilege, not a right. Your time and the tutor’s time are very valuable. Students who request tutoring are required to abide by the following policies:

Attend each tutoring session as scheduled and be prompt. If you miss two sessions without 24-hour notice to the tutor, your tutoring sessions will be terminated. Exceptions will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Academic Support Center director.
Sessions are limited to 1 hour, a maximum of 3 times per week, unless other arrangements have been approved by the Academic Support Center director.
Arrive at each tutoring session prepared to work. Bring your course syllabus, class assignment, paper, pencils, calculator, etc.
You are responsible for your own work and for meeting any deadlines imposed by your tutor or instructor. Understand that the tutor is there to help you learn. Do not expect the tutor to do your homework.
You will be contacted by your assigned tutor by telephone or email to set up an appointment for tutoring. Talk to your tutor about the help you feel you need. Be honest. All tutoring will take place on either the L.L. Polk or Old Charlotte Highway campuses, or other locations approved by the Academic Support Lab director.
If a drop-in tutoring session is available in your requested tutoring subject area, you will be required to attend that session before requesting an appointment for a one-on-one tutoring session.

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Tutoring Subjects for Spring 2012

A wide range of tutoring subject areas are available, including:

Math
Reading
English/Writing
Applied Sciences
Humanities
Social Sciences
Business and Accounting

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Online Writing Lab (OWL)

The Online Writing Lab (OWL) provides a convenient, online method for students to interact with tutors and receive critiques of written assignments, such as essays, reports, letters, and creative stories. During the initial online tutoring session, a student will submit a draft of their writing assignment and discuss aspects of the assignment with the tutor. At a follow-up session, the tutors will provide a critique and feedback of the assignment. OWL services in place at other colleges have been shown to assist students in becoming stronger writers.

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Delivery Formats

Tutoring may be delivered in any of the following, convenient formats:

Face-to-face via drop-in. Each Academic Support Center offers convenient, drop-in academic tutoring five days a week. Drop-in tutoring takes place each Monday- Thursday from 1:30pm - 4:30pm, and Friday from 9am - 1pm. Drop-in tutoring is a great place to study alone or in groups, and is especially good for completing homework assignments. Trained tutors are available to assist you in a wide range of subject areas. And while you are there, take advantage of the Center’s available computers, internet access, workshops, supplemental instruction software, and quiet location for studying. Students who drop in during this time are required to complete a Tutoring Request form.
- About drop-in tutoring:
  - While we do our best to accommodate any student that comes to the Center, we do have a limited amount of space and a limited number of tutors. As a result, drop-in tutoring operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
  - If students are waiting for tutoring, we may limit individual tutoring sessions to 30 minutes. After this time, students are encouraged to apply the strategies they learned in their tutoring session to the remainder of their assignments on their own before returning to drop-in tutoring.
  - Students are encouraged to plan ahead to maximize the time they may spend working with a tutor. It may be difficult to judge when drop-in tutoring will be busy and when students may have to wait for an available tutor. The busiest times are typically during the middle and end of the semester.
  - Students are encouraged to visit drop-in tutoring as soon as they receive an assignment. Tutors may not be able to provide assistance with assignments that are due that day.
Face-to-face by appointment. Students who complete and submit a Tutoring Request form outside of drop-in tutoring sessions will be contacted by a tutor to schedule a date, time and location for a tutoring appointment.
Online. Students who complete and submit a Tutoring Request form may note on the form their request for an online tutoring session. Students will then be contacted by a tutor to schedule a date and time for the online tutoring session. This option allows students to interact with tutors from their computer desktops, and alleviates the need for travel to an SPCC campus in order to receive tutoring services. Online tutoring is a great option for students who live a long distance from an SPCC campus, have busy work and life schedules that limit time for in-person tutoring, or take most of their classes 100% at a distance. To use the new online tutoring service, tutors and student will log into a website and conduct two-way communications in real-time. Features of the website include instant messaging, streaming audio and video, and the ability to collaborate via shared whiteboards, documents, desktops, and websites. Online tutoring is available in most subject areas including math, English, reading, writing, science, information technology, business, allied health, and many more.

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Meet the Tutors

Susan Bruce

Susan’s tutoring areas: Math, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and Microbiology
Campus where Susan tutors: •Ashley E. Richardson Academic Support Center
Susan’s education and training: Susan has a Bachelor of science degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She has also received professional tutoring training.
Type of tutoring Susan offers: Drop-in tutoring Monday - Thursday at the Ashley E. Richardson Academic Support Center (OCHA-155).
Why Susan became a tutor: “As a professional tutor, I am humble, patient and trustworthy. My students say that I am a good tutor because I have the ability to transfer knowledge and enthusiasm, and instill self-confidence.”
Susan’s tips for academic success: “Students need to focus on their learning and time management skills. Positive feedback and good humor are the keys to helping struggling students succeed.”

Virginia Carter

Virginia's tutoring areas: Mathematics—basic algebra courses through pre-calculus courses.
Campus where Virginia tutors: OCH
Virginia's education and training: B.S. in mathematics from Appalachian State University; M.A. in mathematics from UNC-Charlotte. Taught high school mathematics for 30+ years; taught college math courses at Mitchell Community College for 7 years; taught developmental math courses at SPCC for 5 years {present position}; worked on State Assistance Team for 2 years.
Type of tutoring Virginia offers: Drop-in tutoring at the Ashley E. Richardson Academic Support Center (OCH-A, 155); In-person tutoring by appointment.
Why Virginia became a tutor: "Being a classroom teacher, I have experienced classes that have from 8 students to 42 students. Finding time to work with students individually during class time is sometimes impossible; therefore, students who are struggling need an opportunity to get help in a small student to tutor ratio--ideally in a one-to-one ratio. Also, some students find it difficult to ask questions in a classroom setting; tutoring gives them a chance to ask questions in what they consider a "non- threatening situation."
Virginia's tips for academic success: "Tip #1: Don't wait until you are drowning in questions, incomplete assignments, etc. to ask for help. Get help early! Tip #2: Ask questions. Don't be afraid to ask your instructor for help.”

Robin Cook

Robin’s tutoring areas: Reading and English,/writing.
Campus where Robin tutors: L.L. Polk Academic Support Center.
Robin’s education and training: B.A. and M.A. in English; ABD (All But Dissertation) for Ph.D. in Renaissance Literature.
Type of tutoring Robin offers: Drop-in tutoring each Wednesday at the L.L. Polk Academic Support Center (Martin Tech. 207); in-person tutoring by appointment.
Why Robin became a tutor: “I enjoy one-on-one interaction with the students.”
Robin’s tips for academic success: “Talk with your instructor or someone who is interested in your success. Use a planner and learn organizational skills. Believe in yourself!”

Amanda Danley

Amanda’s tutoring areas: Developmental math, 100-level chemistry, and developmental English/writing
Campus where Amanda tutors: L.L. Polk Academic Support Center
Amanda’s education and training: Amanda is a full-time SPCC student majoring in Elementary Education.
Type of tutoring Amanda offers: Drop-in tutoring each Friday at the L.L. Polk Academic Support Center (Martin Tech. 207); in-person and online tutoring by appointment
Why Amanda became a tutor: “I became a tutor because my chemistry teacher said his students needed help, and he felt I would make a great tutor. I mostly focus on math. All of the math courses I tutor for are courses I tested out of, so I am very knowledgeable in that subject area.”
Amanda’s tips for academic success: “DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS! I struggled with math when I was in high school, so I know how discouraging it can be. Don’t give up, just come to drop-in tutoring on Fridays and I can help!

Andrea S. DeBerry

Andrea’s tutoring areas: Developmental English, reading and math.
Campus where Andrea tutors: OCH
Andrea's education and training: Two years of study at SPCC; National Certified Pharmacy Technician.
Type of tutoring Andrea offers: Drop-in tutoring at the Ashley E. Richardson Academic Support Center (OCH-A, 155); In-person tutoring by appointment.
Why Andrea become a tutor: "After being out of school for many years, I found it difficult at first to refocus my mind on the importance of studying. Having a tutor will help those who have a problem focusing on school to have a dedicated time just to focus on studying. Becoming a tutor was important to me because it affords me the opportunity to help students to refocus their thinking and achieve their academic goals.”
Andrea's tips for academic success: "First, do not hesitate to ask questions. Teachers are there to help you learn. Also, remain positive. Do not become overwhelmed or depressed; find some down time to relax your mind. Find a method for studying that works for YOU. Try keeping a personal schedule that allots time for studying.”

Michelle Diamond-Eliason

Michelle’s tutoring areas: Reading, English/Writing, Psychology/Sociology/Behavioral Sciences
Campus where Michelle tutors: OCH, online
Michelle’s education and training: B.A.-University of Wisconsin-Madison; Teacher Certification-Chatham College, Pittsburgh, PA
Type of tutoring Michelle offers: In-person tutoring by appointment; online tutoring by appointment.
Why Michelle became a tutor: “I love teaching and learning!”
Michelle’s tips for academic success: “Be resourceful-take advantage of services offered, such as tutoring, to assist in your success.

Sue Englert

Sue’s tutoring areas: English, reading, literature, writing, research process
Campus where Sue tutors: OCH
Sue’s education and training: Bachelor’s degree in English from Millikin University, Decatur, Illinois. Sue taught English for 12 years in middle school and high school. She also worked at Hallmark Cards, Inc. in Kansas City for 12 years.
Type of tutoring Sue offers: In-person tutoring by appointment at the Ashley E. Richardson Academic Support Center (OCHA-155).
Why Sue became a tutor: “I love helping students, and working one-on-one is the ideal teaching situation!”
Sue’s tips for academic success: “Take notes! The process of writing down what you are trying to learn is one step toward knowing it!”

Dorothy Morrison

Dorothy’s tutoring areas: Reading and English/writing
Campuses where Dorothy tutors: L.L. Polk Academic Support Center
Dorothy’s education and training: B.A. in English Education, M.A. in Writing
Type of tutoring Dorothy offers: Drop-in tutoring each Friday at the L.L. Polk Academic Support Center (Martin Tech. 207); in-person and online tutoring by appointment
Why Dorothy became a tutor: “As a retired English teacher, I have much to offer. Tutoring is so relaxing and a lot of fun. I get to have a tremendous impact on a student’s learning career, and be appreciated and admired in the process!”
Dorothy’s tips for academic success: “Talk to an instructor, a counselor or an academic coach, someone who really wants you to succeed. Give yourself all the time, resources and encouragement you need to succeed. Never give up!”

Brenda McLuskie

Brenda's tutoring areas: Business courses (Accounting, Economics), Beginning Math, Beginning Computers (not programming).
Campuses where Brenda tutors: OCH
Brenda’s education and training: B.S. in Economics, NC State; B.S. in Business Management, NC State; 18 hours toward M.S. in Geospatial Information and Technologies, NC State.
Type of tutoring Brenda offers: Drop-in tutoring each Friday at the Ashley E. Richardson Academic Support Center (OCHA-155), in-person tutoring on Tuesday and Thursday mornings by appointment.
Why Brenda became a tutor: “Tutors have been very helpful in my pursuit of higher education and I think I can help others."
Brenda’s tips for academic success: “Study skill are vitally important to student success.”

Judi Smith

Judi’s tutoring areas: English, reading, basic computer skills
Campuses where Judi tutors: L.L. Polk Academic Support Center, Lockhart-Taylor Center
Judi’s education and training: Degrees in teaching English and reading, and years of experience and training in using the computer, especially for online learning.
Type of tutoring Judi offers: Drop-in tutoring Monday - Thursday at the L.L. Polk Academic Support Center (Martin Tech. 207); in-person and online tutoring by appointment
Why Judi became a tutor: “College courses can seem to move through material rather quickly. Occasionally, a student may need a little extra help to grasp ideas and skills so they can keep up. Tutoring can help with that. It can reassure the student that they can succeed."
Judi’s tips for academic success: “ 'Learning' is an active verb. You have to do more than just show up in class. You have to participate and you have to spend time outside of class reading, studying, and doing assignments."

Judy Steverson

Judy’s tutoring areas: Math, Business Math, English, Reading, Writing, Excel, PowerPoint
Campus where Judy tutors: OCH
Judy’s education and training: Judy has an Associate’s degree in Paralegal Studies, She is also a Certified Nursing Assistant and a Certified Administrator of Assisted Living.
Type of tutoring Judy offers: Drop-in tutoring each Friday at the Ashley E. Richardson Academic Support Center (OCHA-155), as well as tutoring by appointment.
Why Judy became a tutor: “I was very afraid of taking math, and due to the wonderful SPCC teacher I had — Mrs. Carter — I completed the class with an A grade and wanted to help others who battle the same fears I experienced. I now help students in many different subjects. There is nothing more satisfying than to see a person’s face when they finally understand the material.”
Judy’s tips for academic success: “Get a tutor to help, but don’t expect the tutor to do the work for you; if you don’t apply yourself, you will not excel.”

Ann Tesar

Ann’s tutoring areas: Reading (in general or in relation to any subject area); Writing/Language Arts; History
Campus where Ann tutors: OCH
Ann’s education and training: B.A. in History from Miami University (Ohio), B.S. in Integrated Social Studies Education from Miami University (Ohio), M.Ed. in Teaching in Reading Education from Miami University (Ohio). Experience in tutoring with reading in the content area and with tutoring for social studies.
Type of tutoring Ann offers: Drop-in tutoring at the Ashley E. Richardson Academic Support Center (OCH-A, 155); In-person tutoring by appointment; Online tutoring by appointment.
Why Ann became a tutor: “I like to help people and I like to problem solve. Tutoring involves both. It's mutually rewarding to help someone figure out a solution to their problem and, as someone who believes passionately in the importance of education, I love helping people achieve their academic goals.”
Ann’s tips for academic success: “Don't EVER be afraid to ask for help. If you struggle with something, ignoring the issue will only make it worse.”

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Become an SPCC Tutor

SPCC is seeking individuals interested in becoming peer or professonal tutors.

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