Unfortunately, there is quite a lot of stigma around tutoring in education. Often tutoring is seen as a way to fix an educational problem instead of just a way to enhance student learning. Which is a problem in itself. Just because a student might need tutoring, does not automatically mean that they are a failure or incapable. Honestly, it should reflect more on a student’s dedication to learning than on their inherent capabilities. Tutoring is a resource to help students grow into their best academic selves, which should be seen as something positive and not something that people can judge you about.
Langston is really adamant on students utilizing tutoring services or opportunities. Some professors will even make tutoring a requirement to pass their class. Now, if and when that happens, please do not shy away from accessing the tutoring resources on campus.
One of the major tutoring services comes from the Langston University Writing Center, located on the second floor of the G. Lamar Harrison Library in the center area surrounded by the study rooms. Open from 8 a.m. through 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Fridays, students are able to schedule appointments both in-person and virtually to receive help from the local tutors.
The unique thing about the writing center is that it is a peer-lead, community-led service run by one of the heads of the English/ Writing Department at LU. The goal of having students tutoring other students is to try and take away some of that negative stigma around tutoring and hopefully make students feel more comfortable coming in to receive tutoring. Don’t worry, the student tutors are more than qualified to help you with your English and/or writing struggles and were hand-picked by the head of the department based on the quality of their own submitted work. Just because they are students themselves doesn’t make them any less qualified to assist.
Students are able to receive help not only in English and grammar, but in actual writing. That ranges from brainstorming ideas for a paper, finding the right writing style, building an outline, proof reading and editing suggestions. It is recommended that if there is something you would like them to review, you can submit your work in advance in the same portal that you book the appointment. This allows the tutor to review your work prior to your meeting and give you timely feedback. You can make appointments online at https://langston.mywconline.com or come in and schedule an appointment at the Writing Center reception desk on the second floor.
Other than the writing center, most tutors work independently all throughout campus. What that means is some people will offer tutoring services on a certain topic or degree field for community service, or professors will have specific individuals to refer you to when taking their class.
For example, let’s say that you’re taking a physics class or high level science class. I think we all know those classes are not easy, even the professors think so. In that case, sometimes the professor will have partnered with a student of theirs from a prior year or different class that is well versed in the information being taught, and offer extra credit in exchange for tutoring students in the lower level course. I’ve personally seen this happen on multiple occasions at Langston. That’s just what happens in a tight-knit community, you use the resources you have.
That being said, the number one person you should utilize when searching for tutoring or extra help is your professor. Nine times out of ten they will either know someone who can provide you with tutoring sessions, or they’ll just help you themselves. Remember, if you can’t find tutoring, your professor has office hours for a reason. I recommend you go straight to the source.
All professors are willing to help you understand the information they are trying to teach, so don’t feel bad about taking up their time or feel as though you are burdening them. This is a part of their job description. But of course there will always be a professor or two that are a little difficult or maybe their teaching style is just not for you. In this case, try and find another professor that teaches the same subject, explain the situation and they also should be willing to help you out or find somebody that can.
Keep in mind, college was not made to be easy. There are going to be many instances in which you don’t understand the curriculum. And that’s perfectly okay. What’s not okay, is not doing everything in your power to try and fully understand and learn what is being taught. These classes are meant to prepare you for your future career endeavors, and you won’t be doing anyone any favors by not putting your best foot forward when trying to comprehend each and every lesson.
Sasha Ndisabiye
Sasha Ndisabiye is a 2024 graduate of Langston University with a degree in broadcast journalism. She previously served as Editor-in-Chief of The Gazette.
