Learning Resource Center (LRC)
Tutoring Services

    Two years ago this spring, I took my first math class at Saddleback College. I had never heard of the LAP, but on occasion other students would mention that they went there when they needed help with their Algebra home work. As the months went by I never found the need to utilize the LAP, but kept plugging away at my math classes, trying to complete the minimum required math to transfer.

    This past summer when I took Professor Taui's class, the subject of Math suddenly came alive to me! Instead of completing the bare minimum required of me, I now wanted to take more classes and learn all I could about this amazing subject. I found myself fascinated by the way that Math affects every part of our lives, and explains the mysteries of the universe!

    This fall for the first time, I was actually excited to take my math class. However, I was concerned that I might not remember all that I had studied during the summer. That was when I saw a flyer for the LAP. “What a perfect opportunity!” I thought. My tutoring in the LAP I could reinforce my knowledge by helping others to learn, and earn 2 units in the process! Little did I know then how great an experience it would be.

    I came into the LAP the first few times not knowing what to expect. It wasn't long though, before people introduced themselves and helped me feel right at home. Everyone I met was very friendly and always tried to make me feel welcome. After a few weeks, I felt like a “regular” in the LAP and was comfortable tutoring, doing my own studies, or even just hanging around.

    The orientation and training day we had on September was a great part of my LAP experience. It was then that I first met many of the wonderful people I would get to associate with over the semester. Everyone made me feel right at home as we introduce ourselves and became friends. That day we learned about tutoring, about being good friends, and about each other. By the end of the day we were laughing and playing games together and having a great time. It was a good foundation for a successful and enjoyable semester.

    Although all these things contributed to a very enjoy able and memorable experience in the LAP, the best part of all was working with the students. There is something about helping another individual learn and understand that makes you feel so good inside. It's a feeling that is very difficult to describe, but when you experience it, it makes all the time and effort worth it. I came to know many students this semester, some returning again and again just to work with. As students began to understand new concepts, they also came to enjoy their classes more. I like to think that in some small way, I influenced their lives for the better.

    Looking back on this semester in the LAP, it was all I had hoped for and more. I had my own knowledge reinforced by sharing it with others. I earned two units of college credit. I acquired great friends who I will remember for a very long time. I had the opportunity to help others and (hopefully) improve their college experience. And perhaps best of all, I rediscovered my great love for teaching, and have begun to consider a teaching career. With all the good that has come from this semester, I wouldn't trade it for anything. I look forward to many more hours in the LAP in semesters to come.