Eastern Connecticut State University’s Academic Success Center (ASC) provides students with services ranging from tutoring to advice on class selections. Found in the J. Eugene Smith Library on the first floor, the ASC includes the Writing Center, Math Achievement Center (MAC), subject tutoring and advising services. Alison Garewski is interim director of the ASC Center.

In response to COVID-19, the ASC adjusted its services to fit students’ academic needs for the fall 2020 semester. Many of the resources provided by the center are now being offered virtually or provided in person on a more limited schedule. 

The Writing Center, led by English Professor Rita Malenczyk and staffed by undergraduate peer tutors, now offers virtual interactions instead of in person. Students can send their papers and any issues they are having to the Writing Center’s email and will get a response back from a tutor in 2-3 business days. The MAC offers in-person and virtual tutoring sessions with student tutors and math faculty members from 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday through Friday. Mathematics Professor Pete Johnson and student tutors assist MAC Director Kathleen Dale in providing services.

Along with the Writing Center and MAC, Eastern also offers one-on-one tutoring for most academic subjects, as well as learning strategies such as time management, study skills and transitions to online courses. Students can make tutoring appointments through their GradesFirst account.

The Advising Center helps students achieve their educational goals in a timely manner through academic planning, assistance with the adjustment to college, and referrals to campus-wide resources. Each student is assigned two advisors, a professional advisor through the Advising Center, and a professor who serves as an academic advisor for the student’s intended major.

Professional advisors work with Eastern students for the first year and a half of college to help with the transition. They also work with transfer students, assisting with academic policies, helping specialized groups such as adult learners, and assisting students on probation to return to a strong academic standing. Students can learn who their advisor is through EWeb and make an appointment through GradesFirst.

Damali Abbensetts, assistant director of the ASC, hopes that students use the center to their advantage. “The ASC is a great place to start if a student is uncertain where to go to ask for help,” she says. It’s also important to note that all services are provided without any additional charge. Students with any questions can visit https://www.easternct.edu/academic-services/index.html