Give yourself the TLC

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Mikayla Olave for The Criterion

Lower division courses can be some of the most challenging to take at college, so there is no shame in seeking help when you need it.

The Tutorial Learning Center (TLC) offers free resources to assist with this frustration. Located in Houston Hall at Colorado Mesa University (CMU), the TLC provides free tutoring to students in online, in-person and in group settings. Peer tutors are available to assist with general 100 and 200 level classes, and in some instances, upper-division course tutoring is offered. Hours of operation for the TLC are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Along with the TLC, there is a Writing Center in Houston Hall dedicated to brainstorming, drafting strategies, time management and the revision of papers. There is also an opportunity to upload writing assignments and receive a review of your work within two business days. 

Students must schedule an appointment before going to the TLC or Writing Center. Tutors are understanding of the difficulties that come with assimilating to certain assignments and writing expectations. 

There a few requirements before walking into a tutoring session. The TLC asks that you try the assignment on your own first, prepare specific questions for the tutor, bring your assignments, notes and books with you, be prepared to ask what you would like help with and be willing to try. 

English Learner support and a computer lab with a printer are also available resources for use at the Writing Center. Students are trained to become a tutor after receiving an A or B in the course they want to tutor, and they must have at least a 2.70 GPA with faculty recommendations. 

There are two other TLC locations at CMU’s Montrose Campus and Western Colorado Community College.