There is a great need for peer tutors on campus this semester. Marita DeJesus, head of peer tutoring, said, “We are always looking for more tutors, especially in math, biology, Spanish, French and Italian. The more tutors we have, the better.” DeJesus also said that a lack of tutors could cause problems because not everyone is available all the time. “To become a tutor you need an application and a letter of recommendation from a faculty member in the subject you wish to tutor,” DeJesus said.
Subjects that the tutoring center offers help in are math, biology, chemistry, accounting, Spanish, French, Italian and computers. DeJesus recommends that once students notice they are struggling in a class they should get a tutor as soon a possible to ensure a better connection with the tutor, and better results. She also said that the tutors tend to get overwhelmed right before finals week because so many people wait too long to get help. “If a student wants to improve in a class, he or she should get a tutor right away,” DeJesus said.
A point that DeJesus would also like to stress is how unappreciated the tutors are. “Some tutors are paid, but most of them volunteer their time. I don’t think everyone realizes that,” DeJesus said.
Kristin Zielinski, a senior at Cabrini and a peer tutor, said she enjoys tutoring. Zielinski has been tutoring since her freshman year. She tutors math, sociology and psychology. Zielinski said that getting a tutor is a good idea even if a student is struggling in homework and on quizzes. Getting help in these areas can help a student better understand the material the class is covering and get better test grades.
Zielinski said, “(Peer tutoring) is an excellent program. It helps everyone including the tutors. I think it is a rewarding experience for all.”
