Frequently Asked Questions

What does Learning Services do?

Learning Services  provides Mason students with one-on-one peer academic coaching, academic success workshops, and online resources. Students can schedule an appointment with a peer academic coach online or stop by our office in SUB I, Suite 3600.

Peer Academic Coaches 

Our Peer Academic Coaches are committed to helping fellow students identify useful study strategies on a variety of topics, from time management to note-taking. Students can schedule a free appointment anytime throughout the semester. 

Academic Success Workshops

Achieving academic success depends on developing strong academic skills. Our Academic Success Workshops are designed for students to have a chance to learn, discuss, and practice study strategies geared toward overcoming obstacles that interfere with academics, such as getting beneficial sleep, taking effective notes, and managing time. Click here to learn more information about our workshops and view the schedule.

Online Resources

Learning Services is committed to ensuring Mason students have access to online study videosacademic strategies, and information on campus tutoring. Be sure to check our website throughout the semester for new additions and study tips!

Where is Learning Services located?

Learning Services is located on the third floor of the Student Union Building (SUB I) in room 3600! 

To access a college map, click here. 

How do I schedule an appointment with Learning Services?

There are two options to schedule your free appointment with a Peer Academic Coach: 

  1. Click “Get Learning Assistance” at the top of our website’s homepage. 
  2. Call our office at (703)993-2999 to schedule an appointment

 

How can I contact Learning Services?

Please call (703) 993-2999, email Learning Services, or come to our office in SUB I, Room 3600.

Is it free to meet with an academic coach?

Yes, as a student at Mason, there are a variety of programs and services that are free. Both Learning Services and Counseling and Psychological Services are completely free to Mason students. 

How would a peer academic coach assist me?

Our Peer Academic Coaches meet one-on-one with students to help them develop academic goals by introducing them to new study strategies and create study plans to improve their learning. 

Before or during a student’s first visit, they will be asked to take an assessment called Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI), which provides information about students’ strengths and areas for improvement. 

Students may meet with a Learning Services staff member once a week for 45 minutes. While Learning Services does not offer tutoring on specific course content, our staff can show students ways to learn the course material more efficiently. 

In order to receive Academic Coaching, students can make an appointment online or call the office at (703)-993-2999

Is Learning Services similar to tutoring?

Learning Services does not offer tutoring on specific course material. Our staff teaches study strategies to help students learn the course material more efficiently. 

Do I have to sign up to attend a workshop?

Learning Services asks that students register for Academic Workshops on through Eventbrite. 

For more information, please contact us at lsstaff@gmu.edu or call at (703)-993-2999. 

What are the workshops like?

Most times, our workshops take place in SUB I, Suite 3600. Our workshops cover a wide range of topics to overcome academic challenges and strengthen skills to reach your academic goals.  

Here is a list of some our popular topics: 

  • Time management
  • Motivation & Goal Setting
  • Overcoming Procrastination
  • Overcoming Performance Anxiety
  • Exam Strategies
  • Improving Concentration
  • Organization
  • Sleep Better

Click Here to view more information about our Academic Success Workshops 

What topics are discussed in the workshops?

Here is a complete list our workshops: 

  • Academic Survival Strategies 
  • College Reading Strategies 
  • Exam Strategies 
  • In4Mason
  • Improving Concentration 
  • Lecture Note Taking 
  • Managing Academic Anxiety 
  • Memory Strategies 
  • Motivation & Goal Setting 
  • Online Course Study Strategies 
  • Overcoming Procrastination 
  • Project Management 
  • Science & Math Strategies 
  • Scheduling & Time Management 
  • Sleep Better

How can I keep up with Learning Services and their events?

Follow us on Social Media! 

Twitter: @masonlearning

Facebook: @masonlearning 

Instagram: @masonlearningservices 

How do I become a Peer Academic Coach?

Students who are interested in applying for a Peer Academic Coach positions should submit a resume or vita, cover letter, and the names and phone numbers of 3 references to Vicki Dominick, Associate Director for Learning Services via Handshake

Required Skills/Qualifications: 

  • Currently enrolled in George Mason University
  • Eligible for Federal Work Study for the 2021-2022 academic year
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA at Mason 
  • Reliable, responsible, self-motivated, confident, sincere, flexible, dedicated, and considerate 
  • Possess strong written and verbal skills 
  • Take initiative and utilize creative thinking skills consider multiple issues, needs, possibilities, etc 
  • Have an ability to relate to people from diverse backgrounds 
  • Exhibit exceptional professionalism and strong work ethic 
  • Available and accessible for the time commitment involved
  • Previous tutoring, teaching, or presenting experience preferred