DSS Academic Support Centers and Tutoring Services
DSS provides comprehensive academic services that extend beyond classroom and testing accommodations. The DSS Academic Support Centers support the academic development and educational goals of students and is committed to promoting access for individuals with disabilities within the college's diverse community.
DSS staff specialists, faculty tutors, and peer student tutors provide an array of services that include organizational support, time-management, study skills, math/English/reading tutoring, limited content tutoring, assistive technology training and limited equipment loans. Although not an accommodation, DSS Academic Support Centers are available at all three campuses to students who have identified with DSS. Services are not unlimited and are based on availability. Hours and locations vary by campus.
"The Center is a great resource to me for getting my homework done."
Role of the Academic Support Centers
- Help students improve and refine their academic scores.
- Support students in increasing their independence and confidence.
- Help students practice self-advocacy.
"The center is like a family to me, where I can ask for help without feeling discomfort. I trust the center a lot."
Services Offered
- Tutoring
- Study Skills Support
- On Campus Study Space
- Assistive Technology and Training
- Periodic Workshops
One-on-one sessions for help in English, math, and other limited content area/courses led by student peers, faculty, and staff.
- Once or twice per week sessions depending on need and number of classes
- One-on-one tutoring, homework assistance, check-ins
- Reading, writing, and research skills development
- Support for online coursework
- help navigating your online class
- guidance on identifying and clarifying course requirements
- figuring out when items are due
- implementing effective study strategies for exams
- Help you learn the material on your own
- Help you get started on assignments
- Help you learn how to study
- Help you learn study strategies to become an independent learner
- Break assignments into small doable chunks
- Encourage success along the way
- Tutors cannot give you answers
- Tutors are not homework partners
- Tutors do not reteach lessons
- Tutors do not edit writing assignments
- Tutors do not offer assistance for take home or online exams
- Have a ready to learn attitude
- Be on time
- Attend each scheduled appointment
- Prepare specific questions in advance
- Bring materials (assignment directions, books, notes, etc.)
- Follow the center rules
- Text-to-speech
- Screen reader and screen magnifier
- Speech-to-text
- Notetaking aids
- Digital recorder and smartpen loans (as available)
- Alternate format material
DSS offered the following workshops in the Spring 2024 semester. We will publish dates for Fall 2024 closer to the start of the semester.
- Start Smart for Success: This event has passed.
- Developing a college mindset
- Increasing self-advocacy skills
- Knowing your resources
- Time Management & Procrastination: This event has passed.
- Addressing procrastination issues
- Utilizing effective strategies
- Using your resources
- Test Taking & Stress Management: This event has passed.
- Identifying effective study habits
- Reviewing test-taking techniques
- Managing test anxiety
- Final Projects & Research Papers: This event has passed.
- Developing a plan for final projects
- Identifying organization strategies
- Overcoming barriers to completion
If you miss a workshop and would like more information on the content that was delivered, contact one of our Tutoring Centers.
"They are always there to help you."
How to Access Services
Contact the Academic Support Center Coordinator from your campus to set up an appointment:
| Campus | Hours | Location | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Germantown |
Monday-Friday |
renee.gisriel@montgomerycollege.edu | SA 240G | 240-567-1610 |
| Rockville |
Monday - Friday |
lori.ulrich@montgomerycollege.edu | SV 305C | 240-567-5060 |
|
Takoma Park/ Silver Spring |
Monday - Friday |
lindsey.madden@montgomerycollege.edu | ST 227 | 240-567-6145 |
"Come to the center. They are here because they want you to succeed."