The academic support program at Cromwell has seen an average of 65 tutorials being provided per week across both semesters this year. This is a substantial number of tutorials for a college of our size and something I know the students are very appreciative of.
A large amount of work is done weekly behind the scenes responding to tutorial requests, prioritizing tutorials, selecting tutors, liaising with students, timetabling tutorials as well as managing contracts and payments. Izzy Jurss, the 2019 Senior Tutor, has been a wonderful support, has personally managed the internal tutors and assisted with leading a group of dedicated Academic Mentors, all while balancing a busy personal schedule and maintaining a cumulative GPA of 6.17. Izzy is leaving Cromwell at the end of the year but I am sure will remain in close contact with the college.
Our Academic Mentor team have once again provided valued pastoral support and academic advice to the students within their Faculty. First year students in particular have found having a fellow student to assist them with the transition from high school into university invaluable. A big thank you to Callum Breetzke, Cassia Gulley, Nicola Chaney, Madeline Parise, Kiara McIntyre, Molly Miles, Connor Shelton, Tiana Sheehy, Hamish Williams and Sidney Blake.
Also a big thank you to all of the tutors who have done such a wonderful job in assisting students this year. Approximately 50% of our tutors are current students who have done particularly well in their courses, as well as recent ex-Cromwellians who want to continue their involvement in the academic program of the college. The balance of our tutors are sourced externally and many have commented on how much they have appreciated being part of the college community.
An increased number of Academic Breakfasts have been arranged this year and for the first time some have been arranged on a Saturday morning to attract support from students and guests who find difficulty attending during the week. The college has appreciated the support of COCA, and in particular Alex Newton, for sourcing and co-ordinating a number of ex –Cromwellians to attend breakfasts across the year.
ext year’s Senior Tutor is Chrissy Meelen. Chrissy is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Queensland and will, I’m sure, continue the strong work that has been done by her predecessors.
Any COCA members who would like to be considered as a tutor in a particular course, or participate in the Academic Breakfast program in 2020, should contact me at m.crome@cromwell.uq.edu.au.