Mathematics Center has 741 visits in first semester

Pitt-Bradford’s Mathematics Center had 741 visits during its first semester as tutors worked to help students improve their math skills. 

Co-directed by Mark Morrison, visiting instructor of mathematics, and Andrea Robbins, instructor of chemistry, the center is free for all students studying everything from basic mathematics and college algebra to Calculus 3.   

The center offers one-on-one tutoring as well as use of computer software designed to help improve students’ understanding of mathematical concepts.   

In addition to Morrison and Robbins, tutors for the semester include faculty members Dr. Michaela Drignei, assistant professor of mathematics; Dr. Richard Melka, professor of mathematics; Dr. Mary Mulcahy, associate professor of biology; and students Jingyi Zhang, a biology student from Gibsonia; Karen Acosta, a mechanical engineering major from Cape Coral, Fla.; Thai Dao, a mechanical engineering major from Hanoi, Vietnam; and Constance Cui, an economics major from Beijing. 

“I see the difference with students who are regular attendees,” said Robbins, who also teaches Algebra 1 and 2. She encourages students to come in as soon as they don’t understand something because the skills learned build onto each other. 

“We still have space (in the schedule) to help more students,” Morrison said. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 to 3 p.m. Friday. Appointments with tutors are available through Tutor Trac at tutortrac.upb.pitt.edu. 

The Mathematics Center was formed at the request of students and members of the mathematics faculty, explained Dr. Steven Hardin, vice president and dean of academic affairs, and was modeled on the success of Pitt-Bradford’s Writing Center, which was opened in 2011 to improve the communications of students’ writing at all levels. 

In addition to the Mathematics and Writing centers, Pitt-Bradford offers peer tutoring through an Academic Coaching and Tutoring Center. 

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