Become a SMC tutor
Southwestern Michigan College students who desire to become peer tutors go through a careful application process. Each prospective tutor must must submit an online Application for Employment, and must successfully complete two interviews with current tutors and the director.
In addition to the application and interviews, a student must have recommendations from two faculty members and a grade point average (GPA) of 3.33 or above. It is also recommended that students complete at least one semester at SMC (or another institution prior to transferring to SMC) before applying to become a tutor.
Prospective tutors should be a role model for other students. SMC peer tutors are not only strong students, but are also genuinely motivated to benefit their fellow students by helping them learn, and by helping them to develop independence as learners.
All new tutors must complete 15 hours of training in 18 different topics as established by the College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA) and then she/he must complete 25 hours of tutoring contact time with students in order to be certified as a Level I Regular Tutor. Tutor training is provided through the TLC which is a certifying agency for all three CRLA levels which are Regular Tutor, Advanced Tutor and Master Tutor. Although peer tutors are only required to complete a Level I certification, they are strongly encouraged to complete Level II and Level III certification in order to enhance their skills as a tutor.
Basic Job Description for Tutors
- To provide learning assistance to SMC students
- Attend mandatory training sessions and workshops each semester
- Complete all paperwork according to semester deadlines
- Be on time and prepared to work for all tutoring sessions
- Adhere to all SMC Teaching and Learning policies and procedures as outlined in the Tutor Manual
- Be a role model for other students
- Become familiar with course subject matter, learning styles/preference and educational approaches to successful learning
If you would like to apply to be a tutor at Southwestern Michigan College, please complete the Application for Employment through the SMC On-Campus Student Jobs channel in SMC Wired. Applicants who meet the requirements of a peer tutor will be contacted by the TLC director for an interview. Tutors are hired each semester.
For more information, contact Annette Mileski, Director of Teaching and Learning Centers at (269) 782-1463 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1463. Email requests should be directed to ascheid@swmich.edu.
