Q. What is Student Support Services?
A. Student Support Services (referred often as SSS) is a federally-funded learning assistance center that was created to assist first-generation, low-income, and disabled students in reaching his or her bachelors degree. Those who qualify are provided services free of charge throughout their undergraduate academic career. Services include tutoring, workshops, career and personal counseling, Supplemental Instruction, cultural activities, financial aid assistance, and many others.

Q. Can everybody participate?
A. Due to federal guidelines, only TU students who meet the criteria (one of the following: first-generation, low-income, and disabled) may participate.

Q. Do I have to participate in all SSS activities?
A. No. We know that many students attend college while balancing work and family-related responsibilities; however, to remain a participant, students must participate in and adhere to goals outlined in their personal Individual Academic Plan (IAP) and Student Development Plan (SDP). Goals may include workshops (offered online), tutoring, counseling (career and otherwise), and any additional assistance outlined in both plans.

Q. Why should I become a participant?
A. If you meet the criteria to become a participant, the question is “Why SHOULDN’T you become a participant?” All of the services provided at NO cost to the student should be enough reason, but SSS is much more than that. SSS is student-focused with a nurturing learning environment coupled with a staff that empowers students to reach their goals. Again, why shouldn’t you become a participant?

Q. If I join SSS, what am I required to do?
A. Each participant is required to be an active member by following the mutually-decided Individual Academic Plans and Student Development Plans.

Q. Does SSS have materials such as books, videos and calculators I can use or check out?
A. Yes we do! See any SSS staff member for checkout information.

Q. How will I know which/when activities are being offered?
A. Student Support Services has a Blackboard site in which all activities will be updated. Additionally, SSS will e-mail all announcements to participants.

Q. Is SSS just for students taking developmental courses?
A. No, not at all! All students regardless of academic level and ability can benefit from SSS services.

Q. Can students receive a scholarship from SSS?
A. Yes. The specific requirements to receive a SSS scholarship are outlined on the SSS website. Look under the OTHER SERVICES PROVIDED tab to find more detailed information.

Q. Whom do I contact if I’d like to become a participant?
A. Any SSS staff member: Mrs. Faye Johnson, Mrs. Jen Lindquist, Mrs. Sonja Smith, or Mrs. Teresa Treat.

Q. Where is Student Support Services located on campus?
A. Our building is located next to the TU soccer field. We also offer tutoring in the Hawks' Nest and TU Residence Hall.

Q. Is there a charge for tutoring?
A. Never.

Q. Do I need to make an appointment for tutoring, or are walk-ins welcome?
A. You may make an appointment if you desire working with a specific tutor by using the web-based program, TutorTrac, found on our website. Of course, walk-ins are welcomed, too.

Q. What do I need to bring with me for tutoring?
A. You should bring your books, assignments, and syllabus for the class in which you require assistance, along with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.

Q. What if there is no tutoring offered for a course in which I need help?
A. See Mrs. Jen Lindquist so she may check for tutor availability.

Q. I want to become a tutor. What do I do?
A. See Mrs. Jen Lindquist for a tutor application and a faculty endorsement form. Or, visit the SSS website and download the printable forms. Completed forms must then be forwarded to Mrs. Lindquist.

Q. Do I have to re-apply each semester for SSS?
A. No, but each participant will be evaluated at the end of each semester to ascertain active participation. SSS staff will contact you to update any needed information.

Q. What is SI?
A. SI is the acronym for Supplemental Instruction.

Q. What are the tutoring hours of SSS?
A. Tutoring is held in 3 different locations: SSS building, TU Hawk’s Nest, and TU Residence Hall. To find the days/times for each location, go to the SSS website and click on tab marked ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE.

Q. Is SSS open year round?
A. Yes, however, during the summer semester we close earlier than we do during fall and spring, and off-campus tutoring is not available.

Q. How many times am I required to meet with the SSS Academic Coordinator and SSS Student Development Coordinator?
A. You will have to meet the respective coordinators as often as your IAP and SDP require you to do so. The times may vary from once a week to once a month.

Q. Do I have to sign-up to attend SSS workshops?
A. Yes, but you will do so during your IAP and SDP with Mrs. Lindquist and Mrs. Smith, respectively.

Q. Do I have to be a full-time student to participate in the SSS program?
A. No. The only requirement is that you are a student at Thomas University.

Funded by the United States Department of Education