Learning Resource Center (LRC)
Tutoring Services

    Tutoring is a humbling experience. It requires patience, compassion, and dedication to the learning process. Many different cultures are represented at Saddleback College. Consequently, tutors must be equipped to support students in a variety of ways. Each student that came to me in the LAP had a unique set of needs; however, I never came across a student who did not want to learn. Every student I tutored inspired me in my own journey.

    Just last week an Iranian student named Jasmine came to see me. She missed her appointment, but asked if she could wait for an opening. I could tell she really needed some support. So, even though I was totally booked, I promised I would make some time to work with her. A little over an hour later, I had a cancellation, and I invited Jasmine to sit next to me. We started the session like usual, but I noticed that she was preoccupied. I simply asked if she was doing okay, and within seconds, she was in tears. She explained that she was homesick and feeling very lonely. Earlier that morning she had talked to her family in Iran. In an attempt to please them, she did not mention her sadness. Instead, she stuffed her emotions and pretended to be happy. After the call Jasmine was so depressed that she was unable to focus on her schoolwork. Additionally, she was very disappointed with her English. She felt as though she was a failure. She lived with her aunt and uncle, but had no friends in America. For nearly five months, Jasmine had pretended that she was content when in fact she was miserable. With tear filled eyes, I listened to Jasmine. When she was done speaking, I shared my emotions and perspective.

    I too have family that lives far away. It is challenging at times to focus on school when there are such strong emotions within. Jasmine is an incredible student. She is intelligent and very dedicated, but like any normal human, she needed a safe place to connect with another person. This interaction with Jasmine was very touching to me. On a very humanistic level I understood Jasmine's pain. Needless to say, Jasmine and I became friends that day.

    When I first agreed to become a tutor, I was unsure what to expect, but as I reflect back upon the semester, I am filled with warm memories. The LAP is a special place. It was in this learning environment that I found an excitement for helping others. Tutoring reconnected me with my own passion for learning; it has allowed me to give back to the community and meet fellow students and facility.