About the Academic Success Center

The Academic Success Center (ASC), a part of the division of Academic Affairs provides academic support and excellence focused on student success. ASC is a vital component of the Medaille College community. Our goal is to work collaboratively across campus to provide high-quality academic support services that prepare students for success as they launch out into their communities as leaders. We provide a variety of services to the campus community including:

Academic Advisement

Accessibility Accommodations

Preparatory Studies

Subject-Specific Tutoring

Tutoring
 

The Academic Success Center (ASC) offers peer and professional tutoring services, in a full range of subject areas for both individual and group sessions. Our tutors will provide you with personal attention as you study for tests, quizzes, write papers, and work on research projects.  We offer both online and in-person tutoring for a range of subject areas including, but not limited to, biology, chemistry, mathematics, accounting, and veterinary technology courses.

When to Start Working with a Tutor

As you prepare for the semester, our top priority is helping you be successful in meeting your career goals. Through our tutoring services we help you understand and engage with active study techniques to achieve a greater understanding of the course material. So, here are some things to help you recognize when it’s time to sign up for tutoring:

The first sign that you are having trouble in a course.

Your grades are a little lower than you expected.

When you’re not sure how to organize your notes, or how to study for a quiz or test.

You receive a referral from your instructor or academic advisor for tutoring.

Make an Appointment

Tutoring sessions will take place in the ASC computer lab in 106 Huber, in the ASC in 107 Huber, or online through Blackboard Collaborate. You can schedule your tutoring appointment online. However, if you need to cancel or reschedule your tutoring session, please do so 24 hours prior to your appointment, by using the online link, emailing tutoring@medaille.edu, or calling the front desk at (716) 880-2214.

• How to Make an Appointment: Your step-by-step guide
• Schedule an Appointment
• Cancel or Reschedule an Appointment

Preparing for Your Tutor Appointment

• Read and complete the tutoring contract before your first appointment.
• Bring a copy of your course syllabus, assignment, a textbook, laptop, notes, and any specific questions that you may have regarding your session.

Tutoring Subjects

We provide peer and professional tutoring in a variety of subjects including but not limited to: Biology, Business, Chemistry, English, Psychology, Mathematics, and Veterinary Technology. The courses that specifically align within these areas are as follows:

If you don’t see the subject in which you’re looking to be tutored in, just complete our tutoring subject request form. We are continuously searching for tutors based on the needs of students change.   

In addition to our peer and professional tutors; SMARTHINKING is available to all registered Medaille students via Medaille360. 

Apply to be a Tutor

Providing peer tutoring is a rewarding experience that allows you the professional growth for your career while the ability to serve your fellow classmates. We hire tutors based on the demand in the subject area. To become a peer tutor, you must be at least a sophomore and have earned a B or higher in the course that you wish to tutor, complete the application, transcripts, and receive a recommendation from faculty member. If you would like to become a tutor and join our team, be sure to complete the following:

• Apply to Become a Peer Tutor
• Have your instructor complete the faculty tutor referral form

Preparatory Studies

Preparatory Studies is an integral part of the Academic Success Center (ASC) and the center’s approach is “asset-based” which is increasing across the country. The approach recognizes diversity in thought and culture as positive traits. “Asset-Based teaching [approach] seeks to unlock students’ potential by focusing on their talents. Also known as strengths-based teaching, this approach contrasts with the more common deficit-based style of teaching which highlights students’ inadequacies.” (Association of College & Research Libraries, 2018) In line with this approach to student success, we have moved away from using the term “developmental” to “preparatory” to continue to empower our students toward success.  One of the powerful aspects of Preparatory Studies is the concept of learning-to-learn; which is teaching students competency-based skills that will last a life time. Learning-to-learn is the most valuable skill that a student could have because it allows them to practice it in their daily lives. When students move from high school to college, they will need to learn-how-to study and examine topics from critical lenses without super-structured assignments. College stretches the learning of a student to be able to evaluate, assess, and create; and become a lifelong learner for a lifetime.
 
Preparatory Studies oversees the foundational curriculum that helps students gain key competency-based skills around critical thinking, problem solving, responsibility, decision making, and communication skills at Medaille College. It offers a combination of courses and programs to assist students. The primary course content areas include but are not limited to: English, Reading, Mathematics, and College Success Skills. Overall, preparatory studies is designed to prepare students for college-level academic work and provide additional support to help them attain the necessary skills to persist from semester-to-semester, graduate, and lead successful careers in the future.

Academic Resources for Students

Say Yes to Education
Through one-on-one personalized support, we assist in guiding students through the college experience, from start to finish. Say Yes students graduate from Medaille prepared to contribute to society in meaningful, impactful ways.

Computers and Printers
The H106 Learning Lab is equipped with computers that can be used to type up a paper, utilize online resources or check email.

Using the Computers

• Students must know their student ID number and sign in via Accutrack.
• Students must have a Medaille username and password to log on to the computers.

Printing

• Printing is available and deducted from your printing allotment.
• No color printing is available in this computer lab.

Vet Tech and Biology Resources
The ASC has several resources for vet tech and biology students that may be used in the Center. These resources can be used by students for both individual and group study. They may also be used with a tutor during a tutoring session.

• Compound light microscopes and slides
• Cat skeletons
• Chemistry model kit

Media Resources
The ASC offers the following items, available to borrow for up to fours hours at a time, unless otherwise specified. Please come to Huber 107 with your student ID in order to borrow any of the following:

• Graphing calculators
• Scientific calculators
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Protractor
• Headphones
• Glue sticks
• iPads (may only be used within the center and the library)

Math Resources
Listed below are links to resources which may assist you in becoming a successful math student. If you have any questions or concerns about your math course, please make an appointment for assistance. Our tutors love math and are ready to help you!

Success in Mathematics
Tips on how to study mathematics, how to approach problem-solving, how to study for and take tests, and when and how to get help.

10 Ways to Reduce Math Anxiety
Mathematics anxiety has been defined as feelings of tension and anxiety that interfere with the manipulation of numbers, as well as the solving of mathematical problems in a wide variety of ordinary life and academic situations. Math anxiety can cause one to forget and lose one's self-confidence (Tobias, S., 1993).

Note-Taking Tips for Math
Taking accurate notes can help to alleviate some of the struggles and anxiety associated with a math course.

Reading/Writing Resources
Below you will find a number of resources that will help you in various stages of the writing process. Of course, you may always make an appointment for assistance with any of these topics -- we are here to help!

Citations and Bibliographies
Here you will find information on MLA, APA, CSE and Chicago citation styles.

Getting Started with Research
Having trouble finding scholarly resources? We recommend beginning with these databases:
EBSCO
ProQuest

Grammar and Mechanics
The Purdue OWL website is a well-known and regarded resource for college students, free and open to all. Here you will find information on use of punctuation, grammar and sentence structure. You'll also find sample papers and informational materials for MLA, APA, Chicago and CSE citation styles.

Vocabulary Builder
While this website is geared toward GRE preparation, it is also a fun way to quiz yourself and improve your vocabulary in the process. You may advance to the next level only after you have mastered all of the words in each list. How far can you go?

Modern Language Association (MLA)
Official MLA style guide.

American Psychological Association (APA) Style
Official APA style guide.

Random Name Generator
Great tool for creative writers looking for character names. You can adjust settings to output more common or more obscure names.

The Complete Works of Shakespeare
Organized by genre.

The Mark Twain Project
Devoted to scholarship and preservation of Twain's works.

The American Academy of Poets
A wealth of information for those who love poetry.

Medaille College Faculty & Staff Professional Development Opportunity

Student Success Symposium

Building Bridges to Enhance Higher Education During the Pandemic

January 21 - 22, 2021
8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

The Student Success Symposium is designed to provide educational opportunities to discuss student learning and retention within the context of understanding how to best support Medaille College’s students. This two-day virtual symposium will provide valuable approaches on how to engage students through curricular and co-curricular activities. Each session will focus on students and how to meet their needs by strengthening our community as collaborators for success.
 
Goals:

• Share best practices, approaches, and innovative concepts to assist the campus community when working with diverse student populations.
• Provide faculty and staff a professional development opportunity to enhance and/or build innovative strategies for student success that are critical to advancing learning outcomes.
• Connect with the campus community to share ideas and scholarship that enrich our profession. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to sign in to use the computers?
Sign-in is required for all computer use, whether for assignments, internet, printing or personal use. We keep a record to help us understand and anticipate students' computer needs.

Do you have textbooks I can borrow?
No, the Academic Success Center does not have a textbook borrowing library.

How long are tutoring appointments?
Tutoring appointments are 30 minutes. If the tutor does not have a scheduled appointment after your session, the session may continue for another 30 minutes. TRiO, Pathways and students taking online classes may schedule 60-minute appointments. Tardiness will not extend the original appointment. If a student arrives 15 minutes late, they may be asked to reschedule.

How do I make or cancel an appointment?
Appointments can be made or changed in three ways:
At the ASC front desk, 107 Huber
By phone, (716) 880-2214
Or, make an appointment online

How do I sign out a calculator?
Graphing, scientific and basic calculators may be borrowed at the ASC counter (Huber 107) with your student ID. Items may be borrowed in increments of up to four hours at a time.

What else may I borrow?
Scissors
Rulers
Protractors
Headphones
Glue sticks

The follow items may also be borrowed, but may only be used within the ASC or the library:
Microscopes
Slides
Cat skeletal bones
iPads

Who is my tutor?
Tutors are selected when the student makes their appointment. The student can verify their selection by going to the view/cancel screen within Accutrack, our appointment software. On the day of the appointment, while signing in, the name of the tutor will flash on the screen. The ASC staff is available to assist the student in connecting with their tutor.

Can I take my make-up test at the ASC?
Make-up tests are not proctored by the ASC; rather, students must work directly with professors to complete make-up tests.

How do I know if I am signed in or out?
To sign in for an appointment, the student must log in using their 8-digit student ID number for both username and password. Upon login, a confirmation flashes across the screen, stating date, time, subject and tutor's name. A confirmation also appears upon signing out, stating session duration, subject and date. A tutor evaluation will occasionally be offered before the sign-out confirmation appears. The survey is optional but greatly appreciated, as it is an excellent way to provide feedback to tutors.

Am I allowed to take my test at the ASC?
Testing accommodations for students registered with the Office of Accessibility Services (OAS) is housed within the Academic Success Center in Huber 107. Qualified students may complete tests, quizzes and exams in this separate location. Students may schedule their testing appointments prior to the date of the assessment, using their student ID. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments help OAS prepare for students' needs (computer setup, assistive technology, reader assignment, etc.).

Appointments can be made or changed in three ways:
At the ASC front desk, 107 Huber
By phone, (716) 880-2214
Or, make an appointment online

May I print a record of my tutoring visit(s)?
Yes, students may print a report of their tutoring session(s) at the Academic Success Center, in Huber 107. Specific dates and times may be selected, going back as far as the start of the current semester. A staff member will be present to assist in printing record(s).

What is TRiO and how do I know if I qualify?
Medaille College's TRiO Student Support Services (SSS) program can help! TRiO SSS is a federally funded program whose mission is to help eligible participants graduate with the grades and skills necessary for success in school and in life, after graduation. Students admitted into the TRiO SSS program receive free services above and beyond those available to the general College population. Medaille's TRiO SSS program has served more than 200 low income, first-generation students per year, since 1980. We take an integrated approach, developing each participant's leadership potential during their years at Medaille. Learn more about TRiO SSS.

Can I drop off my paper to be edited?
No. If you need assistance with a paper, you may make an appointment to work with a tutor. Your tutor will help you identify and correct grammar mistakes, as well as learn to use proper grammar in the future.

When I arrive at the ASC for an appointment, how do I check in?
Please sign in at the ASC front desk, located at Huber 107. Students should sign in at the computer and then alert a staff member to their arrival. If you need help, staff is available to assist in signing in or in making/changing an appointment.

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