Tutoring
Tutoring is FREE for all RCC students!
Need help in a class? You can request face-to-face tutoring or online tutoring.
Start here:
- Tutor Request Form: Tutor Request Form
- Or call the SOAR Center: 910-272-3663
- Or email Justin Nielsen: jnielsen@robeson.edu
Face-to-face tutoring takes place in the Library (SOAR Center) with RCC tutors.
Online tutoring is provided through Upswing (live tutoring, assignment review, and study support). See the Online Tutoring-Upswing tab
FACE TO FACE SESSIONS – WHAT HAPPENS?
Face-to-face tutoring takes place in the Library (SOAR Center) with RCC tutors.
- Request tutoring first:
- Complete the Tutor Request Form HERE.
- Or call the SOAR Center: (910) 272-3663
- Or email Justin Nielsen: jnielsen@robeson.edu
- Indicate your preference for face-to-face or online tutoring.
- You will be contacted to set up your session time.
Important reminders:
- During your session, take notes and ask for any sample problems/diagrams used.
- Be on time and come prepared (notes, assignment instructions, and what you are struggling with).
- If you can’t make your session, contact your tutor as soon as possible.
ONLINE SESSIONS – WHAT HAPPENS?
Online tutoring may occur in one of two ways:
1. Fully online tutoring through Upswing
Upswing provides live, online tutoring and academic support.
- Log in to Upswing 5–10 minutes before your session: Upswing Login
- Make sure your camera and microphone are working
- Join the session and work with the tutor
- Download any notes or files before ending the session
- Complete the session evaluation
2. Online sessions with an RCC tutor (by arrangement)
In some cases, an RCC tutor may offer online sessions with the face-to-face sessions.
- Availability is based on course needs, tutor schedule, and student circumstances
- These sessions are arranged directly with the tutor
- Online sessions are not the first mode of tutoring for in-person tutors
PLEASE READ BEFORE REQUESTING A TUTOR
Before you submit the Tutor Request Form, please have:
- Your course + section (example: CIS 110-01).
- Your weekly availability based on class/work/life schedule.
- Tip: plan for about 2 hours per week per course when possible.
- A reminder: tutoring cannot be scheduled during your face-to-face class time.
Attendance expectations:
- If you miss sessions without communication, tutoring may be discontinued after repeated absences.
FREE Online Tutoring Through Upswing
FREE online tutoring and academic assistance is available for RCC students through Upswing.
With Upswing, you can:
- Connect with live online tutors
- Submit essays for review
- Access writing and academic support tools
How to Log in:
Log in to Upswing using your RCC login credentials: Upswing Login
Helpful Upswing Resources:
Make a Difference. Build Your Skills. Get Paid.
The SOAR Center is always looking for motivated individuals to join our Tutoring Team. Tutors play an important role in helping students succeed by providing academic support and encouragement.
Tutoring opportunities vary by subject and semester. Learn more about available roles and how to apply below.
PEER TUTOR POSITIONS (STUDENTS)
Peer tutors are RCC students who have successfully completed coursework and want to help fellow students succeed.
Peer tutors may:
- Provide face-to-face tutoring in the SOAR Center (Library)
- Support students in individual or small-group settings
- Reinforce course concepts and effective study strategies
Ideal peer tutor candidates:
- Current RCC student
- Have successfully completed the course(s) they wish to tutor
- Maintain good academic standing; minimum 3.0 GPA
- Are reliable, patient, and able to communicate clearly
- Want to gain leadership, communication, and professional experience
Why become a peer tutor?
- Make a meaningful impact on fellow students
- Paid employment
- Flexible scheduling around classes
- Strengthen your resume and transferable skills
PROFESSIONAL TUTOR POSITIONS (NON-STUDENTS)
Professional Tutor Positions
Professional tutors support students in specialized or high-demand subject areas and bring additional academic or professional experience.
Professional tutors may:
- Provide face-to-face tutoring in the SOAR Center
- Support students in specific disciplines based on expertise
- Collaborate with SOAR Center staff to support student success
Professional tutor candidates typically have:
- A college degree or advanced coursework in the subject area
- Prior tutoring, teaching, or instructional experience
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
HOW TO APPLY
To be considered for a tutoring position:
- Review the appropriate job description below
- Submit an application through the college’s employment system HERE
- Selected applicants will be contacted regarding next steps
Positions are filled based on subject demand, availability, and qualifications.
Available Job Descriptions:
- Peer Tutor
- Professional Tutor
CCP/Early College Students:
If you are interested in becoming a tutor, please contact the SOAR Center (910-272-3663) or talk with you CCP Coach for guidance before applying.
Academic Skills
Writing & Math Support
Online Learning Tools
Meet the Tutoring Team!
Our tutors are here to support you academically and help you build confidence in your coursework. Each tutor brings subject knowledge and a commitment to student success.
You’ll find both peer tutors and professional tutors on our team.

Joy Bukowy
Professional Tutor
Subjects: Business, Accounting, Computer Technology, Economics
About:
Joy is a retired 25-year instructor from Robeson Community College with an MBA and extensive experience in public and corporate accounting. She is a former CPA and a member of the National Tutoring Association. Joy offers tutoring in all business and accounting courses, including computer technology and economics.

Alice McLean-Melvin
Professional Tutor
Subjects: English, Religion, History, Psychology, Sociology, Early Childhood Development, Criminal Justice
About:
Alice is a retired Certified Paralegal and a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. She has served as a tutor in public schools and has been tutoring at RCC since 2015. Alice supports students across a wide range of humanities and social science courses.

Justin Nielsen
Professional Tutor
Subjects: Math, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science
About:
Justin is primarily a math tutor and has also supported students in physics, chemistry, and computer science. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics with a minor in Physics and has been tutoring at RCC since October 2021. Justin enjoys working with students and helping wherever he’s needed.

Emma Scott
Peer Tutor
Subjects: Biology
About:
Emma is the Biology Tutor at RCC and is currently a student at PSRC Early College and RCC. She is set to graduate this spring and is in her first semester as a tutor. Emma looks forward to learning and growing alongside the students she supports.

Hazel Sumner
Professional Tutor
Subjects: Criminal Justice, English, Sociology, Psychology, Religion, History, Business, Education (Early Childhood)
About:
Hazel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Developmental Psychology and a Master of Social Work. She has over 15 years of experience tutoring at RCC and an extensive background in mental health, social services, and education. Hazel brings a supportive, student-centered approach to tutoring across multiple disciplines.

Susan Taylor
Professional Tutor
Subjects: Chemistry
About:
Susan provides college-level chemistry tutoring, including homework help, exam preparation, and lab concept review. She holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in chemistry and has worked as both an industrial research chemist and a science educator. Her favorite question is, “What isn’t chemistry?”

Dr. Charlotte Williams
Professional Tutor
Subjects: English (all levels), Education courses
About:
Dr. Williams has over 10 years of experience working in the Learning Center. She holds bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in Educational Leadership and is certified in elementary and intermediate education, language arts, curriculum instruction, and school administration. She also supports students with test-taking skills and anxiety.













