Our Mission

Tell me about the Chemistry Learning Center

The mission of the Chemistry Learning Center is to assist students who are enrolled in general and organic chemistry courses in becoming successful and independent learners. Enrollment is voluntary and there is no fee. We offer a supportive learning environment where students meet in small groups with staff to work out effective strategies for mastering the chemical content.

We have resources for students in most lecture sections of General Chemistry 103, 104, and 108, and some lecture sections of Organic Chemistry 343 and 345. Note that not all courses nor lecture sections in a course are covered at all times because of our limited resources.

Can anybody join?

We welcome as many students as we can, but do not have the resources to meet the needs of all students who would like help in chemistry. Our program is funded to work with students who are part of other programs, such as the Academic Advancement Program, Pathways, CeO (formerly TRIO), PEOPLE, and POSSE Programs. We also try to welcome Chancellor Scholars, students who have been away from school for 4+ years, recent transfer students, students who have trouble understanding English, McBurney Center students, students on probation, and students at risk of failing the course (i.e., overall grade F/low D). These are general guidelines and we consider each student seeking assistance on a case-by-case basis taking into account available space in our program. Though it is helpful to sign up early, our program does not function on a first-come first-serve basis. Program eligibility is usually determined by an interview with a staff member.

Will my participation make learning chemistry easy?

Not necessarily. Many students find chemistry to be challenging and that they must work hard to master the material.

However, we can offer a setting where your learning can be enjoyable. Our aim is to provide a comfortable and supportive setting where you and your fellow students can pool your talents. You may forge friendships over the course of a semester that will endure years later.

Will participation in center activities reduce the time I spend?

Again not necessarily. Most students must commit about 20 hours/week to their chemistry course which includes lecture, lab, working assigned problems, working extra problems, writing lab reports, studying for exams, etc. You actually may need to increase your time commitment if you wish to perform better.

However, we can help make efficient use of your time. For example, we can help you to figure out what is important and to find the tools you need to do your work.

Do students who participate do well in chemistry?

Yes. Over the past 25 years, practically all students who have attended at least an hour a week have received a grade of C or better in their chemistry course. Many receive A's or B's, and successfully enter the profession of their choice.

What activities do you offer?

Some activities are scheduled on a weekly basis, such as sessions with a tutor. Other activities are offered as the need arises, such as one-on-one meetings and review sessions.

Must I attend all scheduled activities?

No. However, we strongly encourage students to come regularly, and if a student must miss a scheduled session, to please call or send an email message. Students who miss multiple sessions may be dropped from the program.

Anything else?

Finally, let us get to know you, that is, what you are interested in, what works well for you, and what you hope to accomplish. We invite you to get to know us as well and hope that our time working together can be the start of a relationship that lasts over many years.