It has become the center for tutoring, studying, and a cloister for many students to attend during lunch. Yet a majority of students at University aren’t aware of the ARC, or the Academic Resource Center. Located behind the library, the ARC was created by junior IB students as a place for students to receive extra help with homework or study during their lunch breaks.

   The ARC provides a calm atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of the lunchroom. Here, several teachers volunteer to tutor students in their specific course areas. Math teacher Ms. Adriana Monje, for instance, tutors all math levels during first lunch,.

   “It’s [ARC] a great resource and students should really take advantage of this,” stated Ms. Monje. Currently the ARC has teachers who tutor in various subjects such as math, history, and many others.

   One element of the ARC is that the help is one-on-one. Several of the students who seek help, receive it from their actual teachers, but in a less stressful environment than in the classroom. “The ARC has helped me achieve the grades I want with Ms. Monje tutoring me. I’m happy that University finally has a place like this,” said Junior Danitza Yukopila.

But the ARC doesn’t just help those students who need tutoring, many University students simply come to enjoy their lunch and finish up homework. Junior Karishma Cantarero has benefited from the ARC.

    “Thanks to the ARC I actually have a place to study and eat lunch with friends, since the lunchroom can get so loud,” commented Cantarero. Various tables are set up so students can gather in groups.

   Various other opportunities are also available for students who need service hours. Many of the school’s clubs and Honors Societies allow their members to tutor their fellow students in return for hours. Currently, Science Honors Society members may tutor in Biology I, Physics I, Principles of Technology, and Physical science. Spanish Honors and National Honors Society also grant hours to those students who contribute to the ARC.

   “People obviously benefit from it [ARC].” stated junior Alivia Rivera, who has spent several lunches tutoring her peers in math.

     Part of this year’s change in the lunch schedules was so that students can seek out academic help if they so desired. This is the first year that University has had a place like the ARC available during lunch, and many students are hoping it continues to grow.