What's in the basement?

By Faduma Ali

If you haven’t yet discovered what’s in the basement of the CdC, you might want to add it to your must-visit list. You’ll find the Tutoring and Learning Center, a central hub for academic support here at St. Kate’s. Located in CdC 021 right around the corner from the Student Accessibility and Accommodations Center, the TLC is your go-to resource for writing, reading, math, science and more.

The Tutoring and Learning Center is made up of two main parts: the Writing and Reading Center and the Math and Science Center. These centers provide academic assistance to students across the university. Whether you’re working on a paper, struggling with a math problem, or need extra help with science, the TLC has got you covered. The best part? All tutoring services are completely free, so there’s no barrier to getting the help you need.

What makes the TLC truly special is its emphasis on both student success and the growth of leadership potential. Peer tutors work closely with faculty to meet students' diverse learning needs and are given the tools and training to lead their fellow students through academic challenges. It’s not just about improving grades, it’s about creating a positive, supportive environment where students can build confidence, grow their academic skills, and succeed.

One of the most popular events in the TLC is the Write-In, a designated time for students to sit down and start, continue, or finish any paper they’re working on. It’s a great way to make progress in a quiet, focused space without distractions. To make the experience even better, there’s free coffee, tea and donuts to keep you energized and motivated. If you are ever on the elevators in the CdC, you will see a poster about the write-ins for more information!

Now, just around the corner from the TLC is the Student Accessibility and Accommodations Center, where director Mariah Lossing and her team work to ensure that all students have access to the support and accommodations they need to succeed. Located in the same place as the TLC, the SAA Center is dedicated to helping students with a variety of needs, from learning disabilities and ADHD to chronic illnesses and more.

Students who are unsure whether they might qualify for accommodations are encouraged to make an appointment with the team. The center provides support every step of the way to ensure students have access to the accommodations that will help them thrive academically and personally. To get in touch with the SAA, students can email accessibility@stkate.edu or visit their website for more information.

Don’t forget to also check out the Student Accessibility and Accommodations Newsletter, which is published every semester and is a great way to stay updated on the latest news and meet the team!

Whether you're heading to the basement for academic support, writing assistance, or accommodations, the Tutoring and Learning Center and the Student Accessibility and Accommodations Center are both essential resources to help students succeed and make the most of their time at St. Kate’s. The support is right around the corner, just follow the arrows!