With advanced classes and high academic pressure, tutoring has become a necessity for many PHS students. Most hire private tutors to help with homework, preparing for tests, or writing essays. Instead of spending money on private tutors, students should turn to peer tutoring.
Taking place during academy, peer tutoring connects students who need extra help in certain classes with students who have excelled in subjects such as AP Biology or AP Calculus.
“Peer tutoring is a really great resource for help with classes or if you want to help others,” sophomore Olivia Bailey said.
Peer tutoring also benefits the student tutors. Not only do these peer tutors get volunteer hours for their time helping others, they also learn how to clarify their thoughts and explain a subject clearly, which are crucial skills to have.
“I’ve really enjoyed helping others as a tutor,” Bailey said.
Some may argue that private tutors are more beneficial due to their experience. However, it should be taken into account that the type of expertise matters most. While peer tutors may not have years of experience, they have often completed the same courses and experienced the same teachers. This allows them to offer more relevant information, enabling students to succeed in a specific academic environment.
Additionally, private tutoring is expensive. According to SF Gate, tutors can cost $50–$100 per hour. This means that if a student has tutoring once a week during the school year, the cost would be around $2,925. On the other hand, peer tutoring is free and offers similar support from others while also increasing the sense of community at PHS. It is an opportunity to build friendships and academic achievement for every student.
“It’s nice to know that there’s always someone at school who can explain things for free,” junior Noah Hussain said.
Next time a student is struggling in a class, I urge them to log into Infinite Campus and utilize the resources available on campus. Some might find that productive academic support can come from classmates sitting right beside us.
