Most student athletes have to attend athletic tutoring scheduled by the athletic department two or more times a week in the Student Success Center to ensure they are making good grades.

Elizabeth Holbert, an academic adviser over the men’s basketball team and the softball team, said tutoring is not mandatory for all classes, but it is for classes like English or Math.

“One of many NCAA requirements is that students have to make certain GPA, so we just want to make sure our athletes pass the courses,” Holbert said. “ULM offers tutoring for regular students as well, so if they come, they will benefit as well.”

Bianca Tyson, a math tutor, said some athletes come to a tutoring sessions, but others spend time chatting on the internet rather than studying.

“We are here to help athletes, and if they don’t want to cooperate and work on their problems, we can’t help them either,” Tyson said.

Student Athletes share different opinions about the tutoring. Bret Tolar, a freshman history major and a ULM track and field member, said tutoring gives him time and resources for quality studying.

“Tutors are great helpers and I am happy my coaches put me in this program,” Tolar said. On the other side, Anakaren Lopez, a freshman exercise science major and a ULM cross country member, said she should not have to attend math tutoring since her average is a 98.

“I was always good in math, and I think I don’t need this, but I definitely agree tutoring helps those students who need it,” Lopez said.

Erik Vance spends time with athletes every day as a jump coach for the track team.

He said he definitely sees a difference when athletes are involved in tutoring.

“These athletes are spending time dedicated to a particular subject with someone to assist and guide them on the material,” Vance said. “Without the tutors, it is likely that their studying would be much less effective.”