As the end of the Spring semester approaches for Moorpark College, the Tutoring and Learning Center held a two-day Study-A-Thon event on May 7 and 8 to provide students with tutors and resources to help them prepare for final exams.
On the first day of the Study-A-Thon, shaded tables were set up on the upper quad and filled with tutors. Students struggling with writing, science or math could approach the table, meet with a tutor and begin studying.
Deborah Brackley, assistant dean of Moorpark College, was one of the main hosts of the event. Brackley oversees the Tutoring and Learning Center and strives to provide students with academic resources for success.
“We hope all students walk away feeling assisted, supported and prepared for their upcoming finals,” Brackley said.
Students looking to prepare for their math finals could take a practice exam with one of the tutors and complete problems similar to those that will appear on their finals.
Moorpark College biology and math major Isabel Aldana was one of the tutors on site who specialized in mathematics.
“It’s nice to see the students walk away with the confidence to solve the math problems they were initially struggling with,” Aldana said. “We’re here to teach, but we’re also here to encourage and help build confidence.”
Alongside the tutors was Moorpark College’s math department chair, Phillip Abramoff, who helped students visualize their equations using a whiteboard
Emily Sorensen, a Moorpark College geography major, attended the Study-A-Thon looking to prepare for her Mathematical Reasoning for Liberal Arts final.
“It’s so nice to sit down with someone who knows about your specific class,” Sorensen said. “I walked into the event unsure of a few topics and got all those questions answered today. I’m feeling pretty confident for my final next week.”
All students participating in the Study-A-Thon event received a ticket for a free lunch from a nearby taco truck. This ticket was a reward to those who devoted their time to study.
Day two of the Study-A-Thon took place on the library’s third floor, in the Tutoring and Learning Center. The second day aimed to help students study while also providing leisure activities.
While studying may seem essential to exam preparation, taking study breaks is more crucial. As the University of Nebraska-Lincoln suggests, these breaks can enhance student’s control over their schedule and allow them to enjoy their time.
Recognizing the importance of study breaks, the Study-A-Thon offered a range of recreational activities. Students could engage in coloring, crafting stations, snack breaks, board games or even video games, all of which aimed to help them destress and recharge.
Moorpark College data science major Josh Fotsch assisted students in math and science. Being a student himself, Fotsch understands the anxiety that can come with studying for big exams.
“We want students to walk away with peace of mind,” said Fotsch. “It’s easy to get trapped in an anxious mindset during final season. Us tutors are here to help calm some of those nerves.”
Across two days, the event surpassed over 300 visitors. Overall, the Study-A-Thon was a helpful resource for Moorpark College students seeking tutoring, activities and peace of mind. Students seeking more information about the Tutoring and Learning Center can visit their website or Instagram page.
