Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Stevenson offer tutoring?
Students who attend tutoring sessions obtain a better understanding of course material…which often leads to better grades!
What is the tutoring fee?
Tutoring is FREE to all Stevenson students.
Is tutoring available for all classes?
Tutoring is available for most 100 and 200 level courses. Tutoring in upper level courses is also offered depending upon the availability of qualified tutors.
How do I get a peer tutor?
Stop by The Link in KH 201 or call 443-334-2285 and speak to a receptionist, who will schedule your appointment using our AccuTrack system.
When should I sign up for a tutor?
You should sign up for tutoring as soon as you recognize that you need clarification of course material. Often faculty encourage students to attend The Link for tutoring.
What can I expect at my tutoring session?
Tutors are prepared to answer most questions you may have. Tutors can discuss and clarify assignments, lectures, and textbook material as well as review prior tests. Tutors have excelled in the course and have met success with certain study tips and test-taking strategies that they will share with you.
What should I bring to my tutoring session?
You are expected to bring assignment guidelines, books, pencils, notes, calculators, or any other material you need to experience a successful session. Tutors help you to understand difficult material but will not do the work for you.
What can tutoring do for me?
Students use The Link’s tutoring services in a variety of ways:
- To help answer specific questions or understand general knowledge as a supplement to classroom instruction.
- To receive help in writing papers.
- To understand reading assignments.
- To prepare for tests.
What types of tutoring are available?
There are two types of tutoring services:
- Individual tutoring may be scheduled as needed or on a weekly basis for the entire semester.
- Study Groups, guided by tutors, help students keep up with difficult courses and are especially beneficial around exam time.
What do I do if I can’t attend a tutoring session?
You need to notify your tutor and The Academic Link as soon as possible, no later than the morning of your session. Three unexcused absences can result in loss of tutoring privileges.
Will The Link proofread my paper?
Tutors will help find your errors so that you can correct them. They cannot “fix” all your mistakes but can help you learn how to correct common errors. The Link strives to make better writers, not just better papers.
What is Supplemental Instruction?
Supplemental Instruction (SI) is a series of weekly study sessions for students taking courses with historically high numbers of D, F or W grades. SI is for students who want to improve their understanding of course material and improve their grades.
At each session your SI leader, a competent student who has previously taken the course, will guide you through the class material. Attendance at sessions is voluntary. For you, it’s a chance to get together with people in your class to compare notes, discuss important concepts, develop strategies for studying the subject, and test yourselves before your professor does. SI is a way for you to be ready for the challenges of the course.
If you have more specific questions about SI, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions About SI page!
What is Smarthinking?
Smarthinking, a 24/7 online tutoring service, can easily be accessed through your Blackboard account.
With Smarthinking, you can:
- Connect with an e-structor and interact with a live tutor
- Submit your writing for any class to our Online Writing Lab
- Submit a question and receive a reply from a tutor
For more information about how to access this service, please visit our Smarthinking page.
How can I become a tutor?
If you are interested in becoming a peer tutor, visit our Just for Tutors page to learn more.