Academic Tutoring (SSTC)

Did you know? Research shows that students who use academic support services have higher success and completion rates than those who don’t.

Student Success & Tutorial Center

The Student Success & Tutorial Center (SSTC) is a collaborative space designed to support students throughout their academic journey. Whether you need help understanding course material, preparing for an exam, improving study skills, or completing an assignment, our highly trained peer tutors and dedicated faculty are here to help. The center also features an embedded counselor who can connect students with additional support and resources.

Beyond tutoring, the SSTC provides a comfortable and collaborative environment for studying, researching, and working on coursework. Students have access to computers, printing services, Wi-Fi, charging stations, power outlets, loaner calculators and battery packs, and collaborative study rooms equipped with click-and-share technology.

Students must be enrolled in credit courses to utilize SSTC services. The SSTC is located on the first floor of the Downey Learning Resource Center.

Let Us Answer Your Questions!

Getting help is easy! Visit the Student Success & Tutorial Center on the first floor of the Downey Learning Resource Center. When you arrive, check in at the SSTC desk and have your student ID number ready. Let our staff know which subject you need assistance with, and we’ll connect you with an available tutor who can help you succeed.

Yes! Tutoring services are available at no cost to all currently enrolled students.

Bring your student ID number, course materials, assignment instructions, notes, textbook, and any questions you’d like to review with your tutor.

Students can work with a tutor for up to 30 minutes at a time. If no one is waiting for that tutor, you’re welcome to continue for an additional 30 minutes. Tutoring is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so no appointments are necessary—just stop by and we’ll connect you with an available tutor.

Students who receive tutoring accommodations through DSPS must obtain an accommodation form from DSPS and present it to the Student Success & Tutorial Center staff. Once the form is received, we will keep it on file, and you will be eligible for up to one hour of tutoring each time you visit. If you have questions about your accommodations, our staff will be happy to assist you.

Tutoring provides personalized support to help you better understand course material, strengthen study skills, and build confidence in the classroom. Whether you’re preparing for an exam, working through a challenging assignment, or looking to stay ahead in your courses, tutors can help you develop effective learning strategies and connect you with additional campus resources. Many students find that regular tutoring improves their understanding, boosts their grades, and helps them stay on track toward their academic goals.

To meet with the SSTC counselor, you must first attend at least one tutoring session. After your first tutoring visit, you are eligible to schedule an appointment with the counselor at any time.

The SSTC counselor is available:

Tuesdays: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Wednesdays: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

To schedule an appointment, email [email protected]

Individual tutoring provides one-on-one support with a tutor for 30 minutes. If no one is waiting after your session, you may continue working with your tutor for longer.

Group tutoring is available at our Statistics, Biology, Chemistry, and English tables. In this collaborative setting, a tutor works with the entire group, allowing you to ask quick questions, learn alongside your peers, and build a sense of community. There is no time limit, so you’re welcome to stay and work for as long as you need.

If you need verification of your tutoring visit, ask the front desk for a Tutoring Verification Form before your session begins. Your tutor will complete the form during your session, and our front desk staff will provide you with a copy to keep for your records.

If you’re unable to attend tutoring during our scheduled in-person or online hours, Brainfuse is available to help. Brainfuse is a 24/7 online tutoring platform designed as a last-resort option for students who cannot access tutoring through the SSTC during regular hours.

To access Brainfuse, log in to Canvas and open the course you need help with. You’ll find the Brainfuse link in the left-hand navigation menu.

Please note that each student receives 10 hours of Brainfuse tutoring per semester, which is approximately 20 thirty-minute tutoring sessions. We encourage students to use their Brainfuse hours thoughtfully and take advantage of SSTC tutoring whenever possible.