Natural Science Lead Tutors Seek to Create Safe Space for Students

Courtesy of Bowie State University

Dr. Seye Olafimihan and Dr. Ajiri Eroraha are igniting a wave of academic empowerment in Bowie State University’s Department of Natural Sciences with their innovative tutoring program, “Let’s Taco Bout It”, that aims to equip students with the tools they need to excel in their studies. This initiative is funded and administered through the auspices of the Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences Program, also known as CURE.

Held in Room 3122 of the Center for Natural Sciences Mathematics & Nursing Mondays through Thursdays from 5:30-6 PM, and Fridays from 12-1 p.m., the initiative’s mission is to foster self-sufficiency and academic success among students.

This series is one innovation that the Department is deploying to tackle the critical issue of retention and excellence in STEM, given the rigor of the curriculum. Using data-driven approaches, the Department works closely with Dr. Lucy Gichaga, the Retention Coordinator for the College of Arts and Sciences, and Office of Planning, Analysis, and Accountability (OPAA) to identify students in high- and mid-academic distress. The department’s lead tutors then follow up with each student to set up tutoring and success appointments to ensure that they finish the semester strong.

“We want to get students to be empowered to be successful,” said Dr. Olafimihan, who serves as an academic advisor. “What we do in the daily workshops brings different aspects of learning that would help enhance our students’ experiences and habits. Students complain about their academic workload, and we then talk about time management. Do they have issues with a study schedule? We create templates for these things for students to use.”

“We’re open to all students,” added Dr. Eroraha, who hopes to see the study group grow from the handful of students that come on a consistent basis. “Whoever feels the need is welcome.”

The workshops cover topics such as how to write a success plan, study, and how to prepare properly for an exam. Dr. Olafimihan explained how his educational experience showed him how all students could benefit from having the support of someone who can guide them through a university setting, that at times, can feel disorienting due to the workload and energy demanded by the various, rigorous degree programs.

“I wanted to pursue a professional degree. I was a good student, but I wasn’t a great student,” said Dr. Olafimihan. “When I got to professional school, I was thrown off guard.  I needed to be more efficient in the way I worked to master large volumes of information. I was able to become successful because somebody else who was in a supportive role for students showed me ‘This is how it should be done.’ Because I’m equipped to know how to be efficient, I have the obligation to provide the same to current students”.

The program emphasizes the importance of academic success, and Dr. Olafimihan hopes to cultivate an open platform for dialogue and support.

Dr. Eroraha, who is one of the Lead Biology Tutors in the Natural Sciences Department, enhances the vision for the workshops by addressing common challenges students face, such as time management and procrastination. She says she feels “rewarded” when she sees students’ growth and change.

“We’re opening the door to conversations about bettering academic proficiency and skills,” said Dr. Eroraha. “Within two or three years, I hope this vision will be carried forth, and students are able to discuss different matters that are critical for this success.”

As Drs. Olafimihan and Eroraha strive to create a supportive environment for academic excellence, their program extends beyond the classroom, offering invaluable life skills applicable to various aspects of students’ lives.