Everyone needs a bit of support every now and again.
Countless students face significant barriers in accessing the academic support they need. This challenge is particularly acute for low-income students and those attending schools with scarce and limited resources. For many, traditional tutoring options are either financially out of reach or logistically unfeasible. The high cost of private tutoring puts it beyond the means of many families, and other logistical hurdles–such as lack of transportation–further widen the educational divide. And often, the lack of parental assistance in academics, whether due to their own time constraints from working one (or multiple) jobs or a gap in subject knowledge, leaves many students finding themselves struggling in isolation. This lack of support not only impacts their immediate academic performance but can also have long-term effects on their educational and career prospects.
But, since Elkhart High School is affiliated with Ivy Tech Community College in its dual enrollment program, students who may be struggling with their class coursework have access to Ivy Tech’s plethora of resources. One of which I, and many others, have greatly benefited from is Ivy Tech’s online zoom tutoring.
From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays, Ivy Tech’s professionally trained tutors extend their expertise to any Ivy Tech student who needs help on class assignments. And, the best part is…all of this is free. To have university graduates with knowledge in specialized subjects helping for hours would normally cost a substantial amount. But, not with Ivy Tech. What is more amazing is that these tutors can additionally help in non-schoolwork material, such as reading and reviewing college essays or SAT preparation.
Growing up in a household that couldn’t afford traditional tutoring, this resource has been of great help for me. Each evening, I am able to log onto the Zoom meeting and receive one-on-one help in whatever I need–whether it be SAT reading practice, editing and reviewing my college applications, or even simple conversations with my favorite tutor about what her college experience was like.
This has greatly helped me in my school life, allowing me to not be overwhelmed by instances where I am confused in the classroom. And, if the teacher’s explanations don’t help, Ivy Tech’s tutoring services are a second help for me and other students. And, with college essays, I am still eternally grateful that this resource was available. Being a first-generation immigrant, the world of college applications was a daunting one. The impact of such resources on students from backgrounds like mine cannot be overstated. For those of us who face hurdles due to financial constraints, cultural differences, or educational gaps, having access to such high-quality, free tutoring is nothing short of life-changing. It levels the academic playing field, giving us the chance to excel and succeed just like our peers from more privileged backgrounds.
As I reflect on my academic journey and look towards the future, my hope is that Ivy Tech’s tutoring program continues to reach and positively impact more students. For those who are first-generation immigrants, or who come from low-income households, or who simply find themselves lost in their academics, this program is a vital resource. I hope that students having help and resources like this at their disposal reminds them that every student, including themselves, has the potential to soar to great heights and succeed.
