Academic Success Center Frequently Asked Questions

How do I sign up for tutoring or academic coaching sessions?
Students can schedule a tutoring or academic coaching session via Tutor Connection Online. 

Are there costs or fees associated with services provided by the Academic Success Center?
Nothing. All services are free to students enrolled either full or part-time at the College. The course for tutoring must be a course at the College. For someone outside of the College, the office will forward any interests on to tutors, however, costs are decided based on the individual tutor. These private sessions do not fall under the supervision or jurisdiction of the Academic Success Center or the College.

In what subjects can I receive tutoring?
Tutors are available in almost all disciplines and a student may request a tutor in any course. If you do not see your course listed in Tutor Connection Online, please contact Will Waggoner.

Can I make more than one request?
Yes, students may request tutoring in more than one course.

Can I request a specific tutor or academic coach?
Yes, students may request a specific tutor via our online scheduling system.

What kind of tutoring is offered?
Tutor Connection offers one-on-one tutoring and online tutoring.

What is the main difference between tutoring and academic coaching? 
Tutoring appointments mainly cover subject based material. Academic coaching appointments tend to support students on study skills, time management, and general organization for a course.

Is tutoring available in the summer?
Yes, limited tutoring is available during the summer. 

What is my obligation once signed up for a meeting with a tutor or academic coach?
Students are obligated to attend all sessions that have been reserved for the semester. Violation of any policies may warrant the cancellation of services for the remainder of the semester.

How often can I get tutoring or academic coaching?
Students may request support services as often as needed, however, most sessions are two one-hour sessions per week. Students are permitted to schedule a maximum of three sessions in a week for either tutoring or academic coaching. The Director of the Academic Success Center will work with students to be as flexible and accommodating as possible.  

Do faculty work as a tutors or academic coaches?
All tutoring and academic coaching is provided by UVA Wise students.

What if I cannot make a session?
Tutors and tutees should notify each other and the office as soon as there is a need to miss a scheduled session. Students can cancel a session 12 hours in advance on the Tutor Connection website. The student should contact their tutor or Will Waggoner if they need to cancel in under 12 hours.

Can academic success sessions be conducted outside of the Academic Success Center?
All tutoring should occur in the library unless the Director of the Academic Success Center gives prior consent to meet elsewhere.

How are tutors selected?
Tutors must be at least sophomores with an overall GPA of 3.0, at least a B+ average in the course to be tutored and be recommended by faculty and staff members. Exceptions are made on a case-by-case basis. Tutors should also be model students who have good communication and organizational skills.

What is the Mentorship and Adaptability Program (MAP)? 
 
The MAP is a program designed to welcome freshmen to UVA Wise. The program began in 2023 and has since grown to earn itself links to freshmen seminar and the Athletic Peer Coaching Program.

What sort of things do students do if they are part of the MAP? 
 
There are lots of activities that students can take part in! MAP mentors will host workshops and events to help students adjust to life at Wise both in and out of the classroom. Mentors are also available to meet individually with students who are in the program.

What benefits do students receive from being in the program?  
 
Students who are involved in the program have the potential to earn scholarships that can be used towards summer classes. Students also benefit from working with upper class students who can guide them on their journey throughout Wise.

I also have a mentor for first year seminar. How does a MAP mentor differ from this?
First year seminar mentors will generally provide a student perspective on topics during the first year seminar class period. Think of this position like a teaching assistant. The MAP mentor will be available outside of the classroom as an additional resource. MAP mentors will also guide students through the social aspect of the college. Some MAP mentors also work as seminar mentors and will help students in and out of the classroom.

What kind of events does the MAP put on for students? 
 
Below is our schedule of events for the fall semester! Please be aware that the schedule may change. If that happens, this webpage and our social media will be updated.

How are students selected to be in the MAP?
All first year students eligible to receive a Pell grant are automatically included in the program. Any first year students is welcome to join the events and meetings, which will be promoted through first year seminar and the Office of Student Engagement.