The idea of the "9-to-5 student" doesn’t fit the reality of college life anymore. Students face packed schedules filled with classes, jobs, extracurriculars, and family responsibilities. To keep up, campuses are rethinking how they support students, and peer tutoring has become a game-changer. It’s a flexible, personalized way to help students succeed while also building connections and belonging.
Missouri S&T's partnership with Knack is a great example of how this can work. Since launching in August 2023, the results have been impressive:
- 296 active tutors
- 11,762.78 tutoring hours completed
The impact goes beyond the numbers. A fall 2024 survey highlights the difference tutoring is making for students:
- 97.92% of students said they’re more confident in their understanding of the material after being tutored.
- 95.83% feel better able to do the work and complete assignments on their own.
- 94.12% agree their grades improved because of tutoring.
- 100% of respondents were very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with their tutoring experience.
These stats show how peer tutoring isn’t just about academics—it’s about building confidence and independence, too.
Support That Fits Students' Lives
Students don’t always have time for traditional office hours or scheduled support sessions. They need help when they’re studying for a late-night exam or tackling a tough assignment after work. Peer tutoring offers that kind of flexibility, giving students support when and where they need it most. At Missouri S&T, Knack’s platform makes it easy for students and tutors to connect on their own schedules. This approach removes barriers and ensures that academic help is always within reach.
More Than Just Grades
Peer tutoring isn’t only about getting better grades. By connecting students with peers who’ve succeeded in the same courses, it creates a sense of community and belonging. These relationships can help students feel more supported and confident in their academic journey.
The feedback from Missouri S&T students speaks for itself. The overwhelmingly positive responses show that tutoring not only improves grades but also enhances the overall college experience. When students feel supported, they’re more likely to thrive.
A Win for Everyone
Institutions can take steps to make peer tutoring more flexible and accessible:
For Missouri S&T, peer tutoring is helping in more ways than one. It’s improving student success, increasing retention, and promoting equity across the board. By investing in tools and resources that meet students where they are, the university is setting an example of how to support students effectively.
The "9-to-5 student" might be a thing of the past, but the commitment to helping students succeed is stronger than ever. Partnerships like the one between Missouri S&T and Knack show what’s possible when institutions embrace innovative approaches. By focusing on flexibility, connection, and support, campuses can empower students to reach their goals and thrive in college and beyond.
Visit this link to learn more about our partnership with Missouri S&T.
