Many students struggle in one subject despite excelling in others, and the UMD Tutoring Center is here to help with that. Karli Young, one of the student tutors there, says, “I'm a visual learner, which I think is really helpful for math.” When she works with someone, she goes to the root of the problem. “I ask questions to figure out exactly where the gaps are. Then we do the problems together.” Young’s favorite part about tutoring is watching students improve.
UMD tutors are experienced undergraduates who help with assignments, test preparation, and more. UMD’s tutoring services, located on the second floor of the Kathryn A. Martin Library, are used by undergraduate students at all levels and all collegiate units. “Students should know that we don't want to make them feel guilty.” Young says, “Stepping out of your comfort zone to ask for help is a really valuable life skill.” A wide range of courses include: biology, business, chemical, electrical, and mechanical engineering, chemistry & biochemistry, computer science, languages & linguistics, mathematics & statistics, physics.
Apart from working as a tutor, Young holds the role of vice president for the Labovitz School of Business and Economics Sales Club and is on the Sports Club Advisory Council committee board as the chief financial officer. She also interns for Thomson Reuters local firm where she creates social media and plans campaigns.
Young plans to graduate in the spring of 2023 with a degree in marketing and graphic design. Her hard work has earned her the Iron Range Merit Scholarship three years in a row. She looks forward to a career in sales. “I came here during the COVID-19 pandemic and opportunities were lacking. That’s why I’m taking advantage of so many opportunities now,” she says.
Young has learned many skills as a tutor. “Everyone learns differently,” she says. “Communication and patience is important because even if something seems easy to you, it might be hard for someone else.” She encourages anyone who is struggling, or who just needs a little help, to schedule a session. The Tutoring Center is part of the Academic Writing and Learning Center in the Kathryn A. Martin Library.
Written By UMD students Eva Moua and Eleanore Hunt. Eva Moua is majoring in communication and Eleanore Hunt is majoring in writing studies. Eva and Eleanore work with Cheryl Reitan in University Marketing and Public Relations.