Approximately 44% of high schoolers in the United States are at least one year behind in one or more subjects, according to the Institute of Educational Studies. Because of this alarming rate, the Mayo Mentors program was started to assist struggling students, so they can get caught up by having upperclassmen tutor anyone who feels they need it.
Mayo Mentors was created last year by Sammy Shao and Tej Bhagra, to “create a consolidated platform to offer help to students in need and to give students willing to help an opportunity to do so,” according to Bhagra. The program works by having the mentees fill out a form stating which class they need help with. Later, they are placed with a mentor who has already taken that class and can help tutor them.
Many students have said they prefer working with other students rather than teachers when it comes to being tutored. Some of the reasons for this include having the connection feel more authentic, and students can oftentimes explain the topics in a more relatable way, helping with comprehension and later success in the class.
Tutor, Alex Zoghby, assists a fellow student with his homework.
Because Mayo Mentors is still new, Alex Zoghby, a mentor, says, “Not enough people know about the program or use it to its full potential.” His goal is to raise awareness, so more people can get the help they need or offer help if they are able.
Even though Mayo Mentors was created to help struggling students, it has many benefits for the students offering tutoring as well. Zoghby stated the most rewarding part of the experience was that he “had the ability to review important concepts to deepen his knowledge, and was able to form a connection with [his student].” He also stated that another fulfilling aspect was “working with the same person and watching them regain their confidence in school.” Mayo Mentors is looking to grow in order to help more students, and for that to happen more mentors are needed.
No matter what classes you’re taking, you would be eligible to get help as there are no requirements or limits to receiving tutoring. If you are interested in tutoring, you can scan the QR code on the left side of the flyer and then you can start helping our Spartan community thrive.
If you need help, you can scan the QR code on the right side of the attached flyer, and you will be matched with a tutor.
