Since the beginning of the school year, the workload has certainly increased among PDS students across all grades. With the rigorous curriculum comes the responsibility of time management. Students balancing their extracurriculars with the Upper School course workload can be difficult at times. Thankfully, the SIMS Center and Writing Center allow students to receive help from peers (Juniors and Seniors) on their assignments. Located in the upstairs of the Upper School library, there is almost always a student available to help during each block.
In the last few years, the Writing Center has expanded both in mentors and in how they can assist students in the writing process. Last year, there were eighteen mentors, but that number has grown to twenty-seven. Previously, Writing Center mentors were limited to revising and editing English assignments; however, mentors can now help with lab reports or essays in other classes. The Writing Center has a great impact on the PDS community, as Head of the English Department Dr. Karen Latham remarked, “The writing center has had an impact in two aspects. The first being the mentors themselves. Just the opportunity for juniors and seniors to apply to become a mentor is a competitive process … being chosen is a real stamp of approval. Also, students having the chance to get another set of eyes is something valuable, as some students may be more comfortable receiving help from someone their age rather than a teacher.”
The mentorship program benefits both the student receiving guidance and the mentor leading the meeting. Senior Writing Center Mentor Sophia Simms stated, “I have always loved writing and wanted to use that to be able to get involved in my community. … I’m very grateful for this opportunity because I’ve also been able to learn more as a writer by helping students.”
Math and science are not easy subjects to tackle, and these classes can certainly contain challenging topics and information. Some students may be hesitant to ask for help from an adult, and that is why the SIMS Center focuses on helping students in math and science subjects. Similar to that of the writing center, the application process is competitive and is made up of the strongest students in those given subjects. Junior SIMS Mentor Daniel Caruso talked about why he wanted to become a SIMS mentor: “I hoped to help people overcome challenges in math and science while also strengthening my understanding and building of problem-solving skills. I found it rewarding because I feel as if I am making a positive impact on someone’s learning experience.”
Mentors have the opportunity to connect with fellow students while also making a profound impact on the community. The SIMS Center and Writing Center are on the track of continual growth and improvement, and any student who is struggling with an assignment is encouraged to visit!
