Leaning on LARES for academic support
LARES helps prepare leaders who will make contributions toward the advancement of the Latino community.
As I mentioned a few blog posts prior to this one, I have been frequenting the Latin American Recruitment and Educational Services program (LARES) all semester long. The student support center has proven itself more than useful over the past few months, which is why I have decided to share it with you all.
It has become a sort of safe haven on campus for me and many other students as well. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, which is immediately felt by students walking through its open door. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and always happy to help, and there is usually an open space, whether it be in the computer lab or the study area.
Students come in for a plethora of reasons, ranging from needing a chemistry tutor to needing a cup of strong coffee to accompany a group study session. While the LARES program specializes in aiding Latinos and Latinas on campus, its services are open to all, and they encourage anyone who is in need to come in and utilize their multitude of resources.
During the fall semester, I have gone to LARES too many times to count. I have received math tutoring from the all-knowing Terry Mankus, participated in the skull painting session for Dia de Los Muertos and even received a complimentary massage during midterms. I certainly plan on using LARES during finals week, which is why I urge you to consider using it as well.
For finals week, the program will be offering math, chemistry and English tutoring, and like all great support programs, will have snacks for those who attend their tutoring sessions. They also have normal study hours, in which they provide a quiet space for students to meet and study together, whether it be in the computer lab or in their normal study space. They provide productivity boosters (caffeine) there as well.
The staff is also made up of knowledgeable advisors, who you can meet with if you need extra guidance during finals week. They also take walk-ins, although you are not guaranteed to be seen using this method. LARES will be providing a few other perks for finals, but in order to find those out you will have to go see them for yourself. LARES is located at 1200 W. Harrison Street in the Student Services Building.
For more information, call 312-996-3356.
Lucy Teruel is a sophomore majoring in communications and minoring in political science. Born and raised on the North Side of Chicago, Lucy loves music, French, shopping, going to the gym and traveling. She’s also an avid sports fan with a particular penchant for the Chicago Cubs. She hopes to one day become a sportscaster, so don’t be surprised if you catch her on the nightly news a few years from now.
