As the third week of the semester begins and workload increases, the Learning Resource Center (LRC) aims to alleviate stress for students on campus. The LRC welcomed students to inquire about its services during its open house on Sept. 3 and 4.
The LRC, which acts as a tutoring hub for CSUN students, offers services through the University Writing Center, S.M.A.R.T. Lab, Supplemental Instruction program and related workshops and events.
The Writing Center will be open on Monday, Sept. 8, to assist with tasks such as essay and thesis writing, creative projects and resume formatting. Meanwhile, S.M.A.R.T. Lab offers support in STEM-related classes, mainly in chemistry, mathematics and physics.
“This is a free service to help [students] and alleviate them from a lot of stress that comes with a new college and the workload,” said LRC computer technician Benjamin Orellana. “As repetitive as it gets, we’re just here to help them out and expose ourselves to freshmen and transfer students.”
The open house had welcome tables stationed throughout the area, with staff ready to greet new attendees, along with games for students to play collaboratively, such as Jenga.
“We want to create a space for people to play games, grab some snacks, meet other people and some of our assistants here and just get more acclimated to the space,” said Meagan Meylor, the coordinator for the writing programs.
Although the LRC is primarily a tutoring center, staff also view it as a space to build community and connect with peers within their academic interests.
“The biggest benefit students can get from the LRC is being able to meet people who are doing the same subject as you,” said Sophia Paz, an LRC staff member and CSUN graduate student. “You make contacts, especially in the S.M.A.R.T. Lab, because it’s all group-based tutoring.”
During the open house, students expressed excitement, looking forward to utilizing the LRC’s resources and feeling supported during their transition to attending university.
“The vibe is very fun and exciting,” said transfer student Chloe Weiss. “This is my first year here, and I already feel like I’m going to do better here than my old school.”
The LRC can be found on the third floor of the University Library, east wing. The S.M.A.R.T. Lab and Writing Center are open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the S.M.A.R.T. Lab opening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the Writing Center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Fridays. They are available for both in-person and online consulting.
