About the Department
Join Our Team as a Physics Student Course Mentor/Tutor!
Position Overview:
Do you enjoy physics and astronomy and find joy in sharing your knowledge with others? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you! We are seeking stellar college students with a keen interest in physics or astronomy to join our Science Learning Center team as a student course mentor/tutor.
Why This Role is for You
- Make an Impact: Help your peers understand challenging concepts and achieve their academic goals.
- Build Your Skills: Develop valuable communication, leadership, and teaching skills to enhance your future career.
- Flexible Hours: Work around your class schedule with a position tailored to your academic commitments.
- Collaborative Environment: Join a supportive team dedicated to student success.
The Science Learning Center (SLC) is seeking a student tutor to support peers enrolled in Astronomy courses. This role focuses on helping students understand fundamental astronomical concepts and apply those concepts through guided practice, conceptual explanation, and peer-supported learning.
Schedule Requirements
- Availability between 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
- 10–20 hours per week
- A combination of daytime and at least one evening shift preferred
- Opportunities for both in-person and online tutoring
Position Duties
What You’ll Do
Provide one-on-one and group tutoring for specific chemistry courses you’ve mastered.
Assist students in understanding:
- The solar system and planetary motion
- Stars, galaxies, and the structure of the universe
- Light, telescopes, and astronomical observation
- Basic cosmology and space phenomena
Guide students in applying concepts to coursework, labs, and exams
Help students connect mathematical and conceptual components of astronomy
Encourage active learning through questioning, explanation, and guided practice
Facilitate tutoring sessions both
in person and via
Zoom or similar platformsUse technology tools (screen sharing, digital whiteboards, etc.) to support learning
Maintain accurate documentation of tutoring sessions as required
Contribute to a supportive, welcoming learning environment
Minimum Qualifications
What We’re Looking For
- Enthusiasm for chemistry-related courses with a strong understanding of the material. - Great communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to explain concepts clearly and make learning approachable.
- Organized and reliable, with strong time management abilities.
- Previous tutoring experience is a plus, but not required.
- Commitment to creating a positive learning atmosphere.
Minimum Qualifications
- Current student in good academic standing
- Successful completion of Astronomy (or equivalent)
- Demonstrated strong understanding of course content
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Comfortable interacting with peers in both in-person and virtual environments
Preferred Qualifications
- Faculty recommendation or referral letter
- Previous tutoring, mentoring, or leadership experience
- Completion of additional physics or astronomy coursework
- Comfort using technology for learning support (e.g., Zoom, digital whiteboards)
When Applying, Be Sure to Include the Following: -
Faculty/Staff Referral Letters: If you’ve been referred by a faculty/staff member, include their letter as part of your additional items or references.
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Cover Letter: Brief, less than one page explanation of how you meet the qualifications for the role and how this position will help you grow your skills.
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Resume: Highlight your relevant coursework, experiences, and skills.
This position is a federal work study position.
If you do not already know your eligibility for the Federal Work Study Program, please submit a Federal Work Study Request form to the Financial Aid office before applying for this position.Other Qualifications
Students with a faculty referral letter are strongly encouraged to include it with their application. Tutors may also be considered for assignment to support specific course sections based on faculty recommendations and scheduling needs.