VALPARAISO | Valparaiso University has launced the Academic Success Center to provide students with more support.

Tricia White, coordinator of academic success programs, says the center will provide a one-stop shop for student needs.

"With an established location, contact person, Web-based directory and phone referral service, the ASC is now the clearinghouse for information about different avenues students can take to find the most appropriate academic assistance available on campus to meet their learning needs," White said.

The center serves as a referral system for other campus-wide academic support services and resources including study group sessions, academic advising, learning enrichment workshops, career planning, student support groups and disability support services.

The ASC Web site also is a resource for VU students and provides an academic support and resource directory so students can access information about campus-wide academic support services; phone referrals to guide callers to academic assistance on campus; peer tutoring opportunities for undergraduate students; and a learning strategies and study skills course.

"The future holds many possibilities for the ASC including expansion of services and opportunities for all students," White said. "Our intention is to listen to the needs of students as we continue to envision and realize the future of the Academic Success Center."

One of the functions of the ASC is to link students for tutoring opportunities. Amy Lukas, a junior biology major, said her experience providing a fellow student with tutoring has been fulfilling.

"It feels great to be able to help someone out with a concept that they don't understand, especially when you remember being in that exact same situation," Lukas said. "I feel like I am making a difference when the students I tutor come back excited about the grades they received on their last exam, and when that happens I know the hours I put into tutoring are well worth it."