Working for the Ballotti Learning Center

Overview

The Ballotti Learning Center hires exceptional undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students to work in several positions; tutors, tutor managers, study group leaders, program assistants, central referral staff, and more. The BLC offers a wide variety of programs and services to help students have a more successful academic experience. To make these programs work, the BLC employs over 70 students.

Students do not need to qualify for federal work study funds in order to work at the BLC. They are hired on the basis of maturity, academic success, and the recommendation of faculty. Normally, students are hired in their sophomore year and remain part of the staff until they graduate. By their senior year, the positive impact working at the BLC is significant. In addition, they have made a meaningful contribution to the University by teaching, mentoring, and supporting other students.

The Learning Center has ten scholarships available each year. Ballotti Scholars have the opportunity to become tutor managers, who are the leaders among the student staff.

Stop by the BLC at Donahue 208 on third floor of the Ridgeway building, or call 617.573.8235 to ask about employment.

Advantages of working for the Ballotti Learning Center

• Great resume builder
  As an employee of the BLC, you will have many opportunities to gain work experience. Student employees are encouraged to take part in various team projects and multitasked activities. An employment experience at the BLC can help students achieve their career goals through building communication and leadership skills.
• Tutors obtain Tutor Certification
  Tutor Certification by CRLA standards is based on both tutor training and actual hours spent tutoring clients. Each semester students can build their experience to advance their certification level. There are three levels; regular, advanced, and master.
• Strengthens personal academic skills
  By helping others realize their academic goals, employees have the opportunity to reassess their current academic skills and study techniques and build upon them.
• Opportunity to gain experience in higher education
  The BLC provides great opportunities for students who are considering a career in a higher education. The center supports advancement possibilities for all employees. Many of our Directors and Administrators began their career as tutors and study group leaders.
• Flexible Hours
  Employees are encouraged to remain focused on their academics, as well as their social activities. Therefore, the BLC allows a flexible work schedule to fit their personal obligations, while fulfilling the requirements of their position

Graduate Fellowships

Ballotti Learning Center Fellowships are paraprofessional positions and integral to the center’s programs and services, which include tutoring, Study Groups, study skills workshops, programs for at-risk populations, and serving as an AIM facilitator.

Ballotti Fellow responsibilities include some combination of student services (tutoring, Study Group facilitation, and program or service administration.  Areas of concentration may include: Tutor Program administration, Study Group Program administration, NESAD services, assessment, marketing, technology, study skills workshops, and at-risk populations.

Fellows should have strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.  In addition, Fellows must be able to work both independently and collaboratively and be comfortable working with a diverse group of students and staff.

Individuals interested in helping students succeed, teaching, and/or working within student affairs and academic affairs are encouraged to apply here.

Tutors

Peer tutors encourage independent learning by teaching students study skills and problem solving strategies applied to their current course content. The goal is to make students aware of their most efficient learning style. 

• Currently enrolled at Suffolk University
• 8-10 hours of tutoring sessions per week
• Attend a 1 hour weekly support meeting
• Complete all documentation
• Attend all training sessions and learning center meetings 
• Maintain a 3.0 or higher GPA

Study Group Leaders

Study group leaders will have the opportunity to develop professional skills in group facilitation skills and teaching techniques for traditionally high risk science and business courses. 

• Overall cumulative GPA of 3.0
• 3.7 GPA in the subject for which the study group will be offered
• 8-10 hours a week
• Attend a 1 hour weekly support
• Sit in at least 1 class per week in the content area of the study group
• Complete all paperwork
• Attend all training sessions and learning center meetings

Central Referral Position

We are looking for friendly and professional people to join the Learning Center staff. Staff members may ask to perform various duties that are clerical in nature. First semester freshmen are welcome!

• Minimum 2.5 GPA, unless first semester freshmen.
• Professional work attitude and commitment (punctuality, attendance, work ethic)
• Attendance at training sessions and weekly support meetings throughout the semester
• Applicants should have work study or student employment if possible.

University Achievement Program Peer Mentors

The UAP Peer Mentor Program is designed to foster a connection between incoming students and the program’s alumni.  Peer Mentors work with groups of incoming UAP students, serve as an academic and social resource, and act as positive role models.  Peer Mentors facilitate bonding within the cohort, promote a positive connection to the university, and advocate for the program’s mission and goals.

Applicants must:

• Be alumni of the University Achievement Program.
• Have successfully completed SU 101 and SU 102 (B- or higher).
• Have and maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5.
• Enroll full-time at Suffolk University throughout the upcoming academic year.
• Be enthusiastic stewards of the University Achievement Program, its mission and goals.
• If you are interested in being a UAP Peer Mentor, download additional information here.
• If you are ready to apply, download an application here.