Higher education is facing mounting challenges that demand scalable, student-centered solutions. In a recent webinar, Knack explored three persistent issues—academic preparedness, social isolation, and career readiness—and shared how a modern approach to peer tutoring can support institutions in making measurable progress on all three fronts.
Addressing Academic Preparedness
Academic underpreparedness continues to rise. Even before the pandemic, data showed significant numbers of students entering college without the skills needed to succeed. Now, traditional academic support services are strained, and institutions are looking for scalable, proactive strategies to meet student needs.
Knack helps campuses expand support by recruiting and managing a large, flexible pool of peer tutors. On average, partner schools see a 500% increase in the number of tutors engaged and coverage across more than 350 courses. The model is designed to reduce administrative burden while expanding access, with nearly 60% of student engagement taking place outside of traditional hours.
More importantly, the impact is clear. At the University of Florida, at-risk students who used Knack earned grades 19% higher than those who didn’t, and 80% of Pell-eligible students who used Knack had never used campus tutoring before. By focusing on accessibility, Knack helps campuses reach students who need support the most.
Building a Sense of Belonging
Loneliness and disconnection are growing concerns for today’s students, especially among first-generation and commuter populations. Institutions are searching for ways to foster connection and belonging, knowing these factors directly influence retention and academic success.
Knack’s peer tutoring strategy is intentionally designed to support human connection. Students choose their own tutors, often selecting someone with similar backgrounds or shared experiences. These relationships not only support learning, they also promote confidence, trust, and a stronger connection to campus life.
Student feedback reflects these outcomes. Post-session surveys show notable increases in self-confidence, and campuses are seeing meaningful gains in retention among students who engage with peer support. When students feel seen and supported by someone who has walked a similar path, they’re more likely to persist.
Supporting Career Readiness
As questions about the value of a college degree continue to surface, institutions are under increasing pressure to ensure students are graduating with both knowledge and practical skills. Employers consistently cite communication, collaboration, and adaptability as top priorities—yet many students graduate without opportunities to practice these skills.
Peer tutoring offers students a chance to build those competencies in real time. Tutors learn to lead conversations, explain complex concepts, adapt to different learning styles, and develop professional habits. These are skills that transfer directly to the workplace.
In fields where licensure is required, like nursing, the connection is even more direct. At the University of South Florida College of Nursing, students who used Knack saw an 11% increase in first-time NCLEX pass rates. Whether students are entering clinical environments or corporate roles, peer tutoring helps them build confidence and readiness.
The Opportunity Ahead
Rather than treating peer tutoring as a supplemental service, Knack enables institutions to position it as a high-impact experience. It supports underprepared students, fosters meaningful peer relationships, and builds skills that serve graduates well beyond college.
The need for scalable, flexible, and student-centered solutions has never been more urgent. With the right model, peer tutoring can meet that moment—helping students succeed in the classroom, stay connected on campus, and step confidently into their careers.
Want to learn more? Visit joinknack.com to connect with our team or explore how Knack can support your students.
