The AEC's tutoring service is designed to support the goals of in-class instruction, and to promote effective study techniques. Our tutors are URI students who are recommended by their professors. They are hired based on their level of success in the courses they tutor, their excellent study skills, and on their ability to work well with other students. Tutors conduct one-on-one and small group sessions for students in a variety of courses. The tutoring service is available by appointment and on a drop-in basis (first come, first served) and is free.

Why should I get tutoring? I'm not failing!
Many students believe that tutoring is something you do only if you're having problems in a class. This is a mistake. Tutoring is simply an effective means of studying. When you interact with a tutor, your brain processes the information more effectively than if you study passively. Plus, the tutor can help you identify what you don't know and show you more effective ways of learning. Remember, tutoring helps you to process and understand your course material better, regardless of how poorly or well you understand it now.

If you're new to a course, don't wait until there's a problem! Contact us to make an appointment right at the beginning of the semester. By meeting with a tutor or joining a study group early, you can stay on top of your work and one step ahead of problems. If you're already struggling with a course, call us as soon as you can. The sooner you begin working with a tutor, the better your opportunity for improving. Tutors can only help solve problems little by little, so give yourself time.

I'm not even sure what my problem is – how can I explain what I need to a tutor?
Tutors are trained to help you identify your needs, even if you're not sure what they are. Often, a student's problems are directly related to a small part of the course. Other time, the problems have to do with bigger issues – like how your study time is organized, or how you read the textbook when you're studying. If you and your tutor think that your problem relates to more general study skills, she or he will either help you with that or refer you to another member of our staff who can.

I'm nervous about getting tutored; it's kind of embarrassing. What do I do?
Don't worry! Tutoring is painless, we promise! It's a fun way to learn course material. Rememebr, your tutors are your peers – they've been in your shoes! They know your professors, they've struggled with the material, they know how you feel.

All that you need to do is call us or stop by the 4th floor of Roosevelt Hall and check in with a receptionist who can help connect you with a tutor.

I don't see my class listed on the tutor schedule. Does this mean I can't get a tutor?
No, it doesn't. Often, tutors are able to work in course they haven't listed. Also, our academic skills tutors can usually help you review how you are studying in any course, and give you guidelines for improvement. If you don't see a tutor for your course, ask about our academic skills tutoring.

Often, when we have no tutors on staff for your course, we contact your professor or the course's department and try to find other people who might be able to work with you. Regardless of what course you're working in, we'll work to make sure you have the help you need.

Is it necessary to have an appointment?
No, but it helps. It depends on the time of day. If you are unable to make an appointment, and are offered a walk-in hour, it's usually good advice to come 10 or even 15 minutes early. When you come as a walk-in, be sure to check in with the receptionist immediately on arrival, so that she or he will note your position.