By Serita Acker, Executive Director of PEER WISE at Clemson University
Let’s go ahead and bust this myth wide open: Tutoring is not just for students who are failing. In fact, some of our strongest and most successful students use tutoring regularly. Why? Because smart students know that asking for help is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of wisdom.
At PEER WISE, we see tutoring as a tool for growth, not a rescue plan. It’s a space where students sharpen their skills, ask big questions, and deepen their understanding. It’s where good students become great students.
Think about it like this: elite athletes still have coaches. They don’t wait until they’re injured or off their game to train—they work with experts all the time to stay at the top of their field. Tutoring works the same way.
Some students come to tutoring to get unstuck on a tough assignment. Others drop in weekly to stay on track and build confidence before exams. And many come just to talk through a problem out loud, because sometimes hearing yourself think makes all the difference.
Tutoring is also about connection. It’s a chance to meet upper-level students who’ve taken the course before and can offer not just content help, but real advice on how to manage the workload, talk to professors, or organize your time. Sometimes, what students need most is someone to say, “You’ve got this. I’ve been there too.”
So if you’re sitting in a class that’s moving fast or feels overwhelming, don’t wait for a red alert to ask for help. Step into a space that’s built to support you—before the stress sets in.
Our tutoring sessions are free, welcoming, and open to everyone. Whether you’re aiming for a passing grade or a perfect score, PEER WISE is here to walk with you.
Because learning is never a solo sport. And you don’t have to do this alone.
— Serita Acker
Executive Director, PEER WISE
Clemson University
