At the Miller Academic Center, we are excited to offer both peer tutoring and group study sessions for many core curriculum courses as well as some major-specific courses. Peer tutoring is scheduled by appointment, and group study sessions (GSS) are held weekly at 2000 (8 p.m.).
The mission of peer tutoring and group study sessions is to provide supplemental support and opportunities to practice course material and reinforce learning. Our goal is for cadets who attend peer tutoring and/or group study sessions to gain more confidence and independence in their respective courses. Both cadets who are struggling as well as those who are excelling can benefit from peer tutoring and GSS.
We recognize the unique demands placed upon our cadets, and it is our intent that peer tutoring and GSS sessions will be a valuable use of time. Cadets are encouraged to come prepared with questions, problems, and/or topics of interest.
Peer Tutoring
Peer tutoring is available to all cadets – both those who are excelling and those who are struggling. Whether you are striving to maintain an A, working to improve your grade by one or two letters, and/or aiming to strengthen your overall knowledge and skills, we welcome you to peer tutoring. Tutoring is free of charge.
What subjects are available?
Peer tutors are available for a variety of courses:
- AR 101, 102, 201, 202, 301
- BI 101, 111, 113
- BU 212, 220, 230, 310, 316, 339
- CE 121
- CH 131, 132, 137, 138, 223, 224
- CHI 101, 102, 201, 202
- EC 201, 202, 203, 300, 304
- EE 142
- FR 101, 102, 201, 202
- HI 103, 104
- IS 201, 220, 230, 301
- MA 101, 102, 103, 106, 123, 124, 215, 220, 305, 311
- PS 201, 202, 205
- PY 120, 121, 160, 161
- SP 101, 102, 201, 202
For assistance with writing please visit the Writing Center, and for tutoring in math, please visit the Math Resource Center.
How do I schedule peer tutoring?
Visit the Penji website or download the app to schedule peer tutoring at a time that is convenient for you. You may book an individual session or establish a recurring scheduled time.
How can I prepare for my peer tutoring session?
Once you have scheduled your session(s), write it down in your planner. Complete required reading and assignments ahead of time to make the most of your session. Having completed your work ahead of time will prepare you to come to your session with questions, problems, and topics you wish to review. Peer tutors will never answer course assignments, but they can provide other problems for you to practice and gain understanding. Keep in mind the Work for Grade policies and each department’s requirements as stated on your syllabus.
How can I become a peer tutor?
Peer tutors are upper class cadets who have earned an A or B in the course they are tutoring and maintain at least a 3.0 GPA. Those interested should submit the MAC Peer Tutor Application form on Etrieve under Miller Academic Center. All peer tutors are approved by the respective department heads. Peer tutors complete required training and meet with Academic Support Coordinator, Capt. Meghan Ferguson, as directed. Peer tutors earn $12.80/hr, and they are paid for sessions and trainings. Timesheets must be submitted in a timely manner and are not optional.
Group Study Session (GSS)
Trained cadet facilitators who have earned an A or B in the course and are approved by faculty lead GSS. GSS+ are also attended by faculty members who provide additional support and guidance as needed. GSS+ are denoted on the schedule.
What courses are supported by GSS?
Spring 2026 – All sessions begin at 2000 (8 p.m.)
MONDAY
| COURSE | LOCATION |
|---|---|
| MA-126 + | Mallory 414 |
| CH-137+ | Maury-Brooke 203 |
| CH 132 | Scott Shipp 503 |
| CIS 377 + | Mallory 310 |
| CIS 112 + | Mallory 314 |
TUESDAY
| COURSE | LOCATION |
|---|---|
| CH 138 + | Maury-Brooke 203 |
| CIS 111 + | Mallory 210 |
| CIS 213 + | Mallory 318 |
| CIS 303 + | Mallory 310 |
| HPW 201 | Clark King Pool |
| CHI 102/202 + | Scott Shipp 564 |
| FR 102/202 | Scott Shipp 566 |
| CE 206 | Nichols 434 |
WEDNESDAY
| COURSE | LOCATION |
|---|---|
| MA 123/124 + | Mallory 414 |
| BI 102 + | Maury-Brooke 314 |
| CE 203 | Nichols 434 |
| CIS 201 + | Mallory 310 |
| BU 310 | Scott Shipp 204 |
| HI 104 + | Scott Shipp 367 |
| HI 300 + | Scott Shipp 365 |
| HPW 200 + | Clark King Pool |
THURSDAY
| COURSE | LOCATION |
|---|---|
| AR 102/202 | Scott Shipp 567 |
| BI 106 | Maury-Brooke 314 |
| EC 203 | Scott Shipp 204 |
| SP 102/202 | Scott Shipp 566 |
| CHI 302 + | Scott Shipp 564 |
| PY 161 + | Mallory 211 |
How can I prepare for a GSS?
Write it down in your planner. Complete required reading and assignments ahead of time to make the most of your session. Come prepared with questions, problems, and topics you wish to review. Cadet facilitators work with their respective faculty members to review pertinent information. Keep in mind the Work for Grade policies and each department’s requirements as stated on your syllabus.
How can I become a GSS cadet facilitator?
Cadet facilitators have earned an A or B in their respective courses. They are often identified by the faculty member leading the sessions. Interested cadets can also reach out to Academic Support Coordinator, Capt. Meghan Ferguson at fergusonmn@vmi.edu. Cadet facilitators earn $12.80/hr, and they are paid for sessions and trainings. Timesheets must be submitted in a timely manner and are not optional.
“Attend the group study sessions! I’ve both attended and facilitated multiple GSS, and not only is the facilitator able to answer questions and offer study advice, but you get the benefit of studying with peers in the same class.”
—Gabby Handford ’24
Questions? We’re Here to Help
Connect with Miller Academic Center
Schedule: Appointment | Peer Tutoring
Email: mac@vmi.edu
Phone: (540) 464-7661
Miller Academic Center
202 Carroll Hall