Who do you work with?
We welcome as many students as we can, but do not have the resources to support all students seeking help in chemistry. Our program is partially
funded to work with students who are enrolled in programs such as the
Center for Academic Excellence (CAE), Center for Education Opportunities (CeO; formerly TRIO), PEOPLE, and Posse programs, students on academic probation, and students at-risk of failing the course (i.e., overall grade F/low D). Depending on available space, we also try to welcome students away from school for 4+ years, McBurney Center students, first-generation+low-income (for example, Pell grant eligible) students, Chancellor Scholars, Powers Knapp Scholars, new transfer students, students who have trouble understanding English, and recently returning veterans.
These are general guidelines and we consider each student seeking assistance on a
case-by-case basis taking into account available space in our program. Though it
is helpful to apply early, our program does not function on a first-come
first-serve basis. Program eligibility in general chemistry is usually determined by an
interview with a staff member.
Will my participation make learning chemistry easy?
Not necessarily. Many students find chemistry to be challenging and that they
must work hard to master the material.
However, we can offer a setting where your learning can be enjoyable. Our aim is
to provide a comfortable and supportive setting where you and your fellow students
can pool your talents. You may forge friendships over the course of a semester
that will endure years later.
Will participation in center activities reduce the time I spend?
Again not necessarily. Most students must commit about 20 hours/week to their
chemistry course which includes lecture, lab, working assigned problems, working
extra problems, writing lab reports,
studying for exams, etc. You actually may need to increase your time commitment
if you wish to perform better.
However, we can help make efficient use of your time. For example, we can help
you to figure out what is important and to find the tools you need to do your
work.
Do students who participate do well in chemistry?
Yes. Over the past 35 years, practically all students who attend regularly have received a grade of C or better in their chemistry course.
What activities do you offer?
Some activities are scheduled on a weekly basis, such as sessions with a tutor.
Other activities are offered as the need arises, such as one-on-one meetings and
review sessions.
Must I attend all scheduled activities?
No, however, regular attendance (75% of the regular scheduled sessions) is expected and if you need to miss a session we ask that you email your facilitator. Students not attending regularly, e.g., students who miss more than 2 consecutive weeks or are not attending at least 75% of the time, are usually dropped from the program so their spot can be given to another student and will impact their acceptance into the program in future semesters.
Anything else?
Finally, let us get to know you, that is, what you are interested in, what works
well for you, and what you hope to accomplish. We invite you to get to know us as
well and hope that our time working together can be the start of a relationship
that lasts over many years.
