Tutoring Services at the Learning Commons

Welcome!

Free peer tutoring for all Utica University students

Why Peer Tutoring

More students than ever are using Peer Tutoring! We could all use extra support, so why not come meet with a peer tutor who may have taken the same class as you? Our tutors are friendly and approachable, and 100% of students who came to tutoring last year said on an anonymous survey that their tutor made them feel welcome.

All peer tutoring is free–you’re already paying tuition, so why not take advantage of this fantastic resource?
Our main location is the Library Learning Commons (on the first floor, directly to the right as you walk in), but we have a satellite location in Hubbard 109 (Learning Services Office), which will be open to all.
Tutors are available for most subjects including writing, math, science, business, criminal justice, and cybersecurity. We also have tutoring in study skills and writing for any class. Click here to see a list of current courses we cover. If you need a tutor for a subject or class and can’t find one, you can email us at tutoring@utica.edu.
Tutoring is available in-person both by appointment and by drop-in. View tutor bios below!

Course List

How To Use Peer Tutoring

Joseph Lochner

Hi, my name is Joseph Lochner. I am a Senior here at Utica University and I am majoring in Construction Management. I am currently tutoring the following classes: CMG-103, CMG-104, CMG-117, ECN-131, ECN-141, ACC-201, MGT-201, CMG-221, CMG-222, CMG-225, CMG-233, BUL-301, CMG-331, CMG-332, CMG-336, CMG-337, CMG-345, PHY-141 and PHY-142.

Book an Appointment

Megan Wright

Hi! My name is Megan Wright and I am at second year student at Utica. I am majoring in matematics and physics with a minor in education. I am a member of the Utica University Dance Team and the Society of Physics Students here on campus. I am tutoring in MAT 100, MAT 104, MAT 107, MAT 112, MAT 124, MAT 151, MAT 201, MAT 202, MAT 305, MAT 131, MAT 351 and PHY 200. Upon graduating I plan to become a high school math teacher. Please do not hesitate to reach out or make an appointment!

Matthew Heath

Hi! My name is Matthew Heath, and I am an M.B.A. student studying professional accounting and planning on working towards obtaining my CPA. I am from Cortland and am pretty familiar with the area, and I enjoy scenic car/motorcycle rides. My goal in tutoring is to inspire students to do their best and help wherever I can! This year I am tutoring ACC 201, 202, 302, 333, 363, 405, 411, 503; ECN 131, 141, 241, 332, 343; MGT 101, 201, 325, 428; FIN 103, 333; MKT 211

Make an Appointment

Madison Zulager

Hi, my name is Madison Zulager, and I am a Senior Psychology major here at Utica University. I am from Moorpark, California, and in my free time, I enjoy reading, cooking, and watching sports. I plan to complete my bachelor’s degree and then pursue my master’s and doctoral degrees in sports psychology, with a focus on athletes’ performance and mentality. I will be tutoring ENG 101, 102, HIS 381, PSY 101, 202, 211, 223, 311, 321, 322, 333, 347, 453, and PCL 377.

Livya Burns-Leider

Hi! My name is Liv, and I am a junior from Miami, FL. I play on the volleyball team here at Utica. I'm a dual major in psychology and criminal justice, with a minor in criminal intelligence analysis. This semester, I am tutoring: ANT-101, CRJ-101, ENG-101, PSY-101, ENG-102, CRJ-103, MAT-107, THE-136, SOC-151, PSY-202, PSY-211, CRJ-212, CRJ-222, CRJ-314, PSY-322, PSY-331, PSY-361, PSY-374, BIO-105, HIS-387, and CRJ-274. I can also help with studying and writing skills. Please feel free to reach out!

Kaw Christ

Hi, my name is Kaw Christ. I'm studying dietetics and nutrition here at Utica University. My intended career after graduation is to become a clinical registered dietitian. I'm an artist; I like to draw, paint, and embroider. I also like to hike, jog, and do other fun outdoor activities. Some of the courses I tutor include NTR 304, NTR 306, NTR 307, NTR 434, NUR 321, NUR 326, NUR 332, NUR 356, ANT 415, BIO 203, BIO 205, NUR 311, ANT 101, HLS 245, SOC 151, and Writing: All Subjects.

Gianpaul Cooper

Hello, my name is Gianpaul Cooper. I am a Senior Construction Management Major here at Utica University. I am focusing on moving forward in a career structured around civil engineering and construction. I'm a first year tutor, in my free time I participate as a member of the men's lacrosse team. My Courses are CMG: 103, 104, 117, 222, 225, 233, 331, 336, 337, 345 and more!

Carli McShane

Hi! My name is Carli McShane and I am a senior nursing student here at Utica. I am from West Sand Lake, New York. After graduation I plan on working as an RN, BSN in an intensive care unit or emergency room. I currently work at the Wynn ED and Samaritan ED. I am also the president of the Utica University Student Nurse Association on campus. In my free time I enjoy spending time with friends, working out, reading, and watching sports. This year I will be tutoring; NUR 311, NUR 312, NUR 321, NUR 326, NUR 332, NUR 333, NUR 356, NUR 366, NUR 371, NUR 444, NUR 445.

Madelyn Cozzens

Hi, my name is Madelyn Cozzens, and I am a senior here at Utica University. My majors are geoscience and chemistry. After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school and become a professional geologist. In my free time, I enjoy reading and spending time with my friends and family. I am tutoring the following courses: GOL115, GOL225, GOL226, CHE211, CHE212, CHE331, CHE332, CHE323, ANT101, PHI107H, SOC151H. I look forward to working with you!

Alyssa Camilo

Hi everyone! My name is Alyssa Camilo, and I’m a senior in the Occupational Therapy program at Utica University. I’m originally from Rochester, NY, so I’ve always loved the upstate area. In my free time, I enjoy reading, baking, and exploring new foods. I’ll be tutoring the following courses: BIO-101, BIO-102, BIO-201, BIO-202, PHI-101, PHI-108, SOC-151, HLS-245, HLS-309, HLS-445, and IPE-102. I’m excited to work with you and support your learning this semester!

Katie Whitney

Hi! My name is Katie Whitney and I’m in my first year of the Occupational Therapy program here at Utica. I’ll be graduating from Utica University in 2028 with my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy in hopes to work in an outpatient/inpatient setting with those who have neurological disorders or injuries. I’m from Cazenovia, NY, and some of my favorite things to do is hike, attend workout classes, bake, and take my dog for walks with my family.

I’ve found my love for tutoring and assisting students at every point in their academic career so please don’t hesitate to make an appointment with me. I’m here as an asset for you and all of your academic endeavors! I tutor: BIO 101/102, 201/202, 205, ANT 101, 415, CMM 101, ENG 101/102, HLS 245, 209, 401, 445, PSY 321, 322, 361, writing

Alex Venning

Hi everyone! My name is Alex Venning, and I am a second-year student with Junior standing in the Business Management program here at Utica University. I am originally from Toronto, Ontario, which is about five hours from campus. In addition to my studies, I play on the Utica women's hockey team and stay active in a few clubs around campus. After completing my undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue an MBA. In my free time, I enjoy long walks, reading, and spending quality time with family and friends. Looking forward to a great semester with all of you!

Patrick Penna

Hi! My name is Patrick Penna! I am currently studying Cybersecurity with a concentration in cyber operations, in addition to having a minor in Computer Science. I love all things related to computers and video games, reflected by my participation in Utica University esports, and tutoring the most in Cybersecurity on the side for anyone interested in receiving extra help! The classes I am able to tutor are: ENG-101, ENG-102, CYB-107, SPA-116, CYB-101, CYB-233.I hope to see you stop by! I’ll always put my best foot forward to help you in your college endeavors!

Aydin Parekh

Hello, my name is Aydin Parekh and I am a Cybersecurity and Business Major here at Utica University! I also have a strong background in Computer Science and Mathematics. I am from Nobleton, Canada which is 30 minutes north of Toronto. I am a member of the Men's Ice Hockey and Men's Golf team here at the school! Upon graduation, I plan on becoming a Software Engineer. My goal as a tutor is to create a learning environment where students can ask questions and grow. I hope to help students progress and achieve their goals. The courses I tutor are: MAT-100, CSC-101, MGT-101, CSC-102, CYB-107, MAT-107, PHI-107, MAT-112, CSC-116, MAT-124, ECN-141, MAT-143, MAT-147, ACC-201, CSC-201, MAT-201, MGT-201, ACC-202, MAT-202, CYB-205, MKT-211, CSC-225, CSC-301, MAT-301, CSC-303, CSC-322, CSC-323, CSC-325, MAT-331, CSC-343, MAT-400, MAT-486, CYB-101, BUS-123, CYB-233

Ella Jentsch

Hello! My name is Ella Jentsch, I am a Junior studying Math Adolescent Education. Math can be frustrating, don't be afraid to seek out help or ask what you think are "silly questions"! I want to be able to give support to students and gain experience to further prepare myself for my field. I tutor MAT 100, MAT 107, MAT 112, MAT 124, MAT 151, MAT 201, MAT 202. In my free time I like to read, listen to music, and workout. I'm also a part of the Utica's women's soccer and lacrosse teams.

Nate Sand

Hi! My name is Nate, and this is my third year at Utica University. I am majoring in Chemistry and minoring in Physics. My hometown is Morrisonville near Plattsburgh, NY, and I'm also on Utica's Cross Country/Track and Field team! The classes I tutor are PHY 261, PHY 262, CHE 211, CHE 212, CHE 213, CHE 331, CHE-332, and CHE 323. Feel free to reach out and book an appointment!

To make appointments or see drop-in availability, please use the Navigate Student app and select tutoring. (You can find the app on Google Play or the Apple App Store; you can also access the system via the web interface. For instructions using the app, view this brief explainer.)
- You will then select what kind of tutoring you want from the drop-down menu: course content, study skills, subject specific skills, such as Biology study skills, writing, or grad/upper level writing.
- Sessions are 50 minutes.
Library Drop-in Appointments. While most tutors will be available via appointment in the Library, you can also feel free to drop in. A tutor may have an opening or, if another student misses their appointment, you can take that appointment.
Our main location is still in the Library Learning Commons (on the first floor, directly to the right as you walk in), but we have satellite locations in Hubbard 109 and The Cube. Check the Navigate Student app for appointment and drop-in appointments.
Link for growth mindset: https://www.psychologicalscience.org/observer/dweck-growth-mindsets

Open Navigate
- Mobile app: Launch Navigate Student and sign in.
- Web: Go to the Navigate login in the Utica University Logins page OR scan this QR code to open Navigate:
Tap / click “Appointments”

On the home screen, select Appointments (or under Explore → Appointments in the web view)
Choose “Schedule an appointment”

Press Schedule an Appointment:
Pick the appointment type → select “Tutoring”
- When asked “What type of appointment would you like?” choose Tutoring, then click Next / Answer Next Question
- Choose whether you want Course content, Study skills, General writing, or another tutoring type that best fits your need.
  
  *** Note: we have a limited number of study group appointments for courses, which allows a group to meet at one time with a tutor. Sessions will be limited to a small number of students, typically 4, but will vary.
Choose location / delivery mode

Select a location for your tutoring session-most sessions are in the Library Learning Commons Peer Tutoring Center, but we have one satellite location in Hubbard 109, open to all.
Select the course you need help with

A list of courses you’re registered for should appear — tap the correct course/section for study groups.
Pick a date & time

Browse available times and choose one that fits your schedule.

***Note: schedule appointments at least 2 hours in advance; drop-in times are also available and you are always free to drop in as someone may have not shown up for an appointment or a tutor might be free.

If you take a class we have a study group for, you should see it on the screen as shown:
↓
Confirm the appointment

Review the info and tap Schedule.

Review the info then tap Confirm appointment. You should see a confirmation screen and receive an email confirmation. Sessions are typically 50 minutes.

Mobile Guide

Use this link to guide you through this process on a mobile device using the Navigate App.

Mobile Guide

Need help?

Email tutoring@utica.edu and kmsavino@utica.eduwith questions or concerns.
If Navigate won’t load or you can’t find appointments, try signing in through the Utica portal and selecting the Navigate link there, or contact Student Success for assistance.

CLICK HERE to view the list of courses for which peer tutoring is currently available.
Most tutoring sessions will take place in-person at the Learning Commons in the Library. However, some upper-level writing sessions take place online. For more information, see: Graduate/ Undergraduate Upper-level Writing Support.
Tutoring sessions are conducted by trained and qualified peer tutors who are selected based on academic achievement, supportive faculty recommendations, and an application and interview process.
Tutoring services are FREE to all matriculated Utica undergraduate students. You are already paying tuition, so why not take advantage of this support?

What your fellow students say about Tutoring

Here are a few of the things Utica University students have said about Peer Tutoring:

ThinkingStorm Online Tutoring

ThinkingStorm is an easy-to-use online tutoring service available to Utica University students. ThinkingStorm can help with a variety of subjects, many of which are available 24/7/365.

ThinkingStorm tutors are expert tutors who are trained to help you succeed in a personalized, one-on-one session. Every ThinkingStorm tutor is a college graduate with previous teaching or tutoring experience, and 85% have advanced degrees.

What can I expect from ThinkingStorm Online Tutoring?

With ThinkingStorm Online Tutoring, you can:

Access 24/7/365 drop-in live tutoring for topics in Math, Science, and basic Statistics
Receive comprehensive feedback on written drafts via ThinkingStorm’s 24/7 Writing Center
Schedule online tutoring appointments for a wide variety of subjects

How can a ThinkingStorm tutor help me with my writing?

ThinkingStorm can help you improve your writing skills by providing guidance on the following elements of academic writing:

Organization
Argument
Clarity
Cohesion
Grammar
Formatting (APA, MLA, Chicago)

Writing support is available across the curriculum and through the doctoral level.

How do I get started?

Just log on to ThinkingStorm with your Utica username and password. It's that simple!

ThinkingStorm

More Information

Information on Upper-Level Writing Support:

The Graduate Assistant Writing Consultants work with Utica University upper-level undergraduate and graduate student writers across all subject areas to:

Help you gain confidence as a writer
Learn how to understand writing conventions in your chosen field
Learn strategies for drafting, revision, proofreading

We can work with you at any stage of the writing process - from brainstorming to revising- come anytime for help- no draft necessary.

Sessions will run approximately 50 minutes in length, and are available for Utica University graduate students and upper-level undergraduate students (300-level or above).

Undergraduate Students (upper level writing) and Graduate Students: Limited in-person hours are available in the Library–for these appointments, please use the Navigate student App.

Graduate Students: Online hours are available– for these appointments, please schedule with me through Microsoft Teams using your Utica email.

Library - Grad/upper-level writing support

Available in the Library Learning Commons Tutoring Center
Online video appointments through Microsoft Teams
Both open to all graduate students and any undergraduate student who needs writing support taking a 300 level or above course

Graduate Assistant Writing Consultants

Daniela Muscari

My name is Daniela Muscari and I am in my final year of the MSOT program here at Utica University. I have extensive experience with upper-level writing intensive courses, undergraduate and graduate-level research, and creative writing. I enjoy all genres of writing and I am excited to support you throughout your academic journey!

Make an Appointment

Laney Hinman

My name is Laney Hinman and I am currently a 2nd year (600 level) graduate student in the Occupational Therapy program at Utica University. I have experience taking both undergraduate and graduate research classes as well as writing intensive classes. I hold a strong love for the power of writing, no matter the purpose. I am extremely excited to assist you in your writing career and meet you wherever you are in your academic journey!

Make an Appointment

Help Docs

See below if you need help with ...

Sharing an MS Word Doc

Navigating MS Teams

"For me, peer tutoring at Utica University has been an incredible experience. Utica's tutoring program has truly helped me overcome academic challenges to succeed in my studies. Peer tutoring has the power to transform even the most apprehensive students into enthusiastic, highly motivated learners."

- Kimberly M., Criminal Justice, Class of 2022

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower Utica University students to become independent, successful learners by providing academic skill-building, resources, and learning opportunities through quality tutoring.

The Peer Tutoring staff hold equity and inclusion at the heart of our student support practices. Our tutoring space is an open, welcoming, comfortable, and mutually respectful learning environment which allows student clients and tutors to ask questions readily, express themselves fully, and evaluate their learning fearlessly. We do not tolerate speech or actions that disrupt this core value. Our aim is for peer tutoring to be easily available, accessible, and beneficial to ALL students. If you feel it isn't, please speak up! we appreciate hearing from you and improving our practices as a result. To get in touch with Kathleen Savino, the Director of Tutoring Services, send an email to kmsavino@utica.edu or tutoring@utica.edu.

We believe:

Learning is an ongoing, recursive, and collaborative process that requires individual curiosity, resourcefulness, and creativity.
Learning involves crossing boundaries, taking risks, reflecting honestly on one’s needs, and being vulnerable in seeking help.
Meaningful academic support honors each student's unique learning journey, meets them where they are on that path, and guides them in developing growth mindset, self-awareness, self-advocacy, and autonomy.
Active learning environments produce engaged and effective learners with the metacognitive tools to transfer their knowledge and learning to new contexts.
A community of learners is best served when all academic support staff, including student tutors, are facilitated in their pursuit of professional development and growth.

Still having trouble finding tutoring help?

Special Requests: If you are unable to find a specific undergraduate course or subject offered by either peer tutors or online tutors, contact us and we will do our best to accommodate your request. However, we cannot guarantee a tutor for every subject/request. Please be sure that you have viewed all schedules and tutor availability on Navigate and on ThinkingStorm before making a special request.

The tutoring experience is collaborative, and both the tutor and the student play a role.

Tutors Offer:

Clarification of material
Practice with course concepts
Assistance with skills and strategies for how to learn course content
Test preparation and test-taking tips
Help with the writing process

However, Tutors Do NOT Offer:

A quick fix the night before a test or quiz
A substitute for attending class
A substitute for meeting with the course instructor
An editing or proofreading service

A Tutor’s Goals Are To:

Promote student success by offering academic support in a variety of subjects
Assist students in becoming independent, confident learners
Provide a supportive and stimulating active learning environment

Students Who Make the Most of Their Tutoring Sessions:

Plan tutoring appointments well in advance of upcoming assignments or exams
Go over the material to the best of their ability before the session
Come prepared with a plan of specific questions and problems to discuss with the tutor
Bring relevant course materials (writing prompts, rubrics, texts, assignment sheets, class handouts)
Actively participate in the session

Why should I use tutoring?

To identify and clarify key concepts
To organize and remember information
To integrate text and lecture notes
To prepare for a test or quiz
To learn and improve study strategies

What should I bring to the tutoring session?

Textbooks
Class notes
Text notes
Syllabus
Past quizzes and tests
Homework
Assignment sheets
Writing prompts
Rubrics

What about confidentiality?

Tutors maintain strict confidentiality and do not share any information regarding student clients and tutoring sessions with anyone other than the Director of Learning Commons. Tutors have permission to share information about your tutoring with the Director of Learning Commons if necessary. This is for your benefit. The Learning Commons keeps record of all tutoring activities, and all Learning Commons tutors sign a Confidentiality Agreement as a condition of their employment.

What can I expect from a tutor?

Tutors are expected to facilitate student learning by:

Discussing specific course content
Promoting and modeling the use of appropriate study strategies
Emphasizing active learning techniques
Practicing good listening and communication skills
Maintaining scheduled hours
Respecting students’ rights to confidentiality

It is important to note that tutors are not “homework machines” or miracle workers. If you procrastinated throughout the semester, cramming with a tutor the night before a major exam will not produce good results. If you plan to visit a writing tutor, keep in mind that last minute revisions are not effective.

What will a tutor expect from me?

Tutees are expected to be active participants in their tutoring sessions. Bring relevant materials to the tutoring session. Come prepared by:

Attending class
Taking notes
Reading assignments
Trying homework problems
Preparing questions
Attending tutoring sessions on a regular basis

When can I meet with a tutor?

Tutoring typically begins during the third full week of classes. Currently, all peer tutoring takes place in-person and appointments can be scheduled or drop-in times can be viewed on the Navigate Student App.

There are also options for study group appointments for specific courses. If you want to explore these options, please select “study group” when making an appointment in the Navigate Student App. If you would like a study group option for a course, please email us at tutoring@utica.edu

Are there other options available for tutoring?

Yes! ThinkingStorm online tutoring offers:

Access 24/7/365 drop-in live tutoring for topics in Math, Science, and basic Statistics
Receive comprehensive feedback on written drafts via ThinkingStorm’s 24/7 Writing Center
Schedule online tutoring appointments for a wide variety of subjects

Just log on to ThinkingStorm with your Utica username and password. It's that simple!

Questions about tutoring?

Please contact Kathleen Savino, Director of Learning Commons, at 315-792-3369 or at tutoring@utica.edu.

Utica’s peer tutors are a select group of students who demonstrate subject proficiency as well as the interpersonal skills necessary for good working relationships. Working as a tutor offers you many benefits and valuable experiences.

What are the requirements of a peer tutor?

'B+' or above in the course you wish to tutor, and a 3.0 (or higher) cumulative GPA
Completion of two semesters of college
Ability and commitment to work at least one full academic year as a tutor (preferred; exceptions are made on an as-needed basis)
Enthusiasm for your academic subject and an interest in helping your peers learn

How much will I be able to tutor?

Peer tutoring is a paid position, and tutors typically work a set schedule of 5-6 hours per week, but possibly more depending on the tutor's schedule and available funding. Tutoring as part of work study for undergraduate applicants is preferred but not required.

What does tutor training involve?

You are required to complete several hours of (paid) training before beginning work as a tutor. Training topics include:

Tutor role do’s and don’ts
How to be an effective facilitator of student learning
Conducting a successful tutoring session
Dealing with difficult situations
Listening and communication skills

I'm interested! How do I apply?

Review the Peer Tutor job description
Complete and submit an application via Utica University's Student Employment Portal
Send an email to Kathleen Savino, the Director of the Learning Commons, indicating your interest to work as a tutor after you have completed all the steps above. Please email Kathleen at tutoring@utica.edu.