ASC Graduate: Alex Martin

The Academic Success Center (ASC) regularly hires tutors and academic peer mentors as well as writing consultants for its undergraduate and graduate writing centers. Both positions are on-campus, paid opportunities for students who enjoy helping their peers be academically successful.

To give a better idea of what it’s like being a student worker in the ASC, we spoke with some alumni who worked there during their time at NC State. Alex Martin, Psychology ’24, started working as a tutor and Supplemental Instruction (SI) leader for the ASC during his junior and senior years.

As an SI Leader, Alex attended chemistry 101, 201 and 203 throughout different semesters, taking detailed notes to enhance his understanding and plan effective SI sessions. He organized and led three 50-minute sessions each week, fostering an engaging learning environment for his peers. As a tutor, Alex worked individually with students taking chemistry and physics for either 30-minute or 1-hour sessions.

Here is what he had to say:

What did you enjoy most and what did you gain from your experience with the ASC?

I most enjoyed collaborating with my peers. It was incredibly rewarding to witness their growth in confidence after attending sessions. I also gained confidence in my own understanding of chemistry and physics, and enhanced my speaking skills throughout the process.

What are you doing now, and what transferable skills from your job with the ASC have helped you in your current work?

I am currently taking a gap year before applying to medical school, during which I work as an EMT and a medical scribe while also studying for the MCAT. I think the most transferable skill is communication. My experience at the ASC has greatly increased my confidence in my ability to communicate effectively and think quickly. This is extremely important as an EMT, especially during intense moments. Additionally, many of the study strategies I learned in training and shared with students are now helping me to prepare effectively for the MCAT.

What other perks or advantages did you enjoy from your work at the ASC?

I had the pleasure of meeting and collaborating with many exceptional supervisors, professors, and fellow ASC employees. The insights and support from all three groups were invaluable to my growth as an ASC employee, a student and an individual. Additionally, the social events organized for ASC employees each semester were a great way to connect and have fun!  

What advice would you give students who are considering applying to work for the ASC?

My advice would be to do it! Working at the ASC was one of the best decisions I made in college. I looked forward to working there every day and I wish I would have applied sooner. There are many different roles in the ASC and there is bound to be one that will be fulfilling for you.

If you are a current student interested in working as a tutor, peer mentor or writing consultant within the Academic Success Center, please apply here.