Tutorial and Academic Skills Center
The Tutorial & Academic Skills Center (TASC) provides free tutoring for all students
Click Find a Tutor to schedule a tutoring appointment. If your class schedule conflicts with the tutoring times or if you don't see your class listed, email smctasc@stmarys-ca.edu and we will work to accommodate your request.
TASC tutors help their peers problem-solve and increase their motivation to learn. Tutors are facilitators of learning tasked with effectively supporting students by integrating content knowledge with their understanding of overall course structures.
Programs offered through TASC are intended to complement study efforts. We encourage you to take advantage of these and other academic resources to maximize your opportunities for success. Please refer to the resources list and helpful hints listed below.
Students who are interested in becoming a TASC tutor and would like more information about the position, please contact Joe Zeccardi at jaz4@stmarys-ca.edu or refer to our become a tutor webpage.
Tutors are SMC students with at least a 3.0 (B) GPA in the subject(s) they tutor. Selection of tutors is based on their academic record, faculty recommendations, completion of tutor training, and interview. Every effort is made to attract tutors who are have strong interpersonal and communication skills.
If you are a current veteran student, there are additional tutoring resources available to you from the VA.
Tutoring & Academic Resources
Helpful Hints
- Ask immediately, the first day of class, for a syllabus (an instructor's outline detailing the readings, assignments, tests, and important dates in your courses).
- Review course material at least weekly during the term, re-read class notes, workbook exercises, outside reading notes, textbook, highlighted text, etc. Generally, consistent study habits may reduce the likelihood that you will have serious challenges in your courses.
- Arrange to study with other students in your classes. You might understand course content other students need help with, and they might be able to assist you with content you would like to understand better.
- Obtain the office hours of your instructors, and meet with them when you need help comprehending course information or assignments. Remember, faculty members are here to assist you both in and out of the classroom.
- Ask for assistance with a problem after you have made a serious effort to work through it on your own. Do your best to figure out a solution before asking for assistance.
- Seek academic help from the people best qualified to give it -- instructors, advisors, trained tutors, or the Academic Support and Achievement Programs, etc.
Contact Us
Joe Zeccardi, Director of the Center for Writing Across the Curriculum (CWAC) & the Tutorial & Academic Skills Center (TASC)
Stella del Rosario, Tutoring & Learning Coordinator
CWAC & TASC Location: De La Salle 110
Phone: (925) 631-4684
Hours: by appointment