Students “ACE” Their Classes with MCC’s Tutoring Services

To assist students with developing their academic skills and learning habits, Middlesex Community College’s Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE) provides support and study areas. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the Center created 4,492 appointments, scheduled 3,231 appointments, and served 1,179 distinct students.

“The ACE staff is so kind,” said Anisha Rao, an MCC Early Childhood and Education student from Andover. “They are good at giving in-depth explanations and directions about tasks. I am very thankful that I was introduced to the Centers. The services are extremely beneficial to students.”

Rao works for ACE as a writing and embedded tutor. She appreciates the ACE community and how helpful the mentors and learning specialists are.

Interacting with students and fellow ACE members makes John Poland’s journey at MCC more rewarding. An MCC Business student from Billerica, he is a writing and business tutor who loves the sense of belonging and diversity that the Center offers.

“It is good to be around that atmosphere and talk to people from different walks of life,” Poland said. “The services are included in our tuition and provide students with a tool to improve their grades. They have a way to talk about their assignments with people who understand the material.”

Ritta Kuong assists with setting up events and speaks to students about ACE at information booths and in front of classes. She is an MCC Biology student from Lowell and math and science tutor.

“Everyone is nice and welcoming,” Kuong said. “I enjoy the activities ACE hosts such as our monthly meetings with student leaders. Sometimes the center hosts brainstorming games and I believe that is important for team building and improving our critical thinking skills.”

MCC students can receive individual or group tutoring from ACE Student Leaders. The tutors are faculty-recommended students with expertise in subjects including math, writing and science. Students who need help in a specific class can also be paired with a tutor who has experience with the material.

In the sessions, students will learn study methods that help them better understand the course material. Tutors will also answer any questions related to the material and explain course expectations.

ACE uses Google Classroom to offer students tips on navigating college, developing time management skills, and guidance on using Blackboard, MCC’s online learning management system. There are opportunities to engage with the Center more by joining Academic Discussion and MCC Story Group. Each option allows students to practice their speaking skills or read and discuss fiction and non-fiction books.

Tutoring services are offered in-person on both campuses, including the Cowan Center in Lowell in Room LC406B and the Library in Bedford in Rooms AR/LIB-3 and AR/LIB-7, and online via Zoom. Visit https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/ace/ for more information.

“ACE supports these students at any point in their academic journey, from English language learner and developmental courses through the Honors Program, in multiple disciplines,” said Christine Bell, Director of Academic Support Programs. “The ACE mission is to empower students to become independent, intellectually curious, lifelong learners. ACE is the place for all MCC Students!”