Academic Services
Academic Advising & Support
Advising
The Office of Academic Advising & Support is the primary academic resource on campus to empower students to make informed academic and life decisions. Staff assist students with general academic program information (including the core curriculum), registration and schedule adjustment information, leadership opportunities, and problem solving for general academic difficulties. All undeclared students receive academic advising with staff in Academic Advising & Support. For more information, please go to: mcla.edu/advising.
The Office is also committed to offering students various academic resources to support students' goals. From first year to graduate students, all are encouraged to seek assistance in improving their academic skills. Academic Advising & Support coordinates the Trailblazer Tutor Program. Peer tutors assist students to gain a better understanding of key course concepts, review for exams, and model positive study strategies. Tutoring services are free and available to all MCLA students by appointment or drop-in. The Trailblazer Tutor Center is in Mark Hopkins, room 108. For more information, please go to https://www.mcla.edu/student-services/academic-advising-and-support/academic-support/trailblazer-tutor-center/index.php.
Applying a holistic approach, success coaching helps committed MCLA students develop skills, behaviors and habits that contribute to student success in college. These areas include college, career and life readiness skills such as: academic and career goal setting, learning strategies, time management, organization, self-regulation and self-efficacy. The Success Coaching program is designed to promote a positive and successful learning experience for MCLA students. For further information about Success Coaching, please call 413-662-5585.
UNDECLARED Advising
The Undeclared Program is designed to support students who have not declared a major. The program engages students with a variety of experiences designed to encourage informed decisions when choosing a major. These include working with academic advisors and exploring academic and career services. For additional information, please see: https://www.mcla.edu/student-services/academic-advising-and-support/academic-advising/undeclared-at-mcla.php
MCLA students must declare a major program of study by the time they have earned 60 credits. Transfer students entering MCLA with 60 or more credits must declare a major after the completion of their second semester at MCLA. Students have the responsibility of completing all requirements for their chosen major regardless of when the major is declared. Students already in a major may become Undeclared if they wish to explore other majors.
Disability Resources
Disability Resources works with students individually to determine accommodations that are appropriate and reasonable. If a student qualifies for disability services, an individualized accommodation plan is developed to address documented needs and facilitate equal access. Our philosophy and programs assist eligible students in fostering independence in college to the fullest extent possible, embracing self-advocacy and developing skills to transition and succeed in their careers. For further information or to inquire about accommodations, please call 413-662-5314 or visit the website at mcla.edu/student-services/disability-resources.
TRIO
The TRIO Student Support Services Program (SSS) at MCLA empowers first-generation, low-income, and students with disabilities to explore and engage with their educational, professional, and personal goals. SSS offers comprehensive academic and personal support designed to assist with retention, academic success, and persistence to graduate. Please visit https://www.mcla.edu/student-services/trio/index.php for more information on the program eligibility and the application process. You can find us located in rooms 105A, 105B, and 103 of Mark Hopkins. For any questions, please email triosss@mcla.edu or Barbara.Baker@mcla.edu.
Student Support Centers
THE WRITING STUDIO
The Writing Studio is a space where writers collaborate and create. Trained peer Writing Associates will collaborate with writers at any stage of the writing process: from understanding assignments and brainstorming ideas to planning, revising and polishing final drafts. Students, faculty and staff can sign up for a one-hour in-person or online writing appointment at mcla.edu/writingstudio.
THE MATH DROP-IN CENTER
The Math Drop-In Center is a friendly, judgment-free place where any MCLA student can get help with math questions from any course. The Drop-in Center is staffed by trained peer tutors who will help build your skills and confidence in math, no matter where you're starting from. No appointment is needed - come to Room 101 in the Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation or visit our Microsoft Teams Channel for online-only help. Check out our website, mcla.edu/mathcenter, for current hours of operation, helpful tips, and instructions for accessing our Teams Channel.
Career Services
Career Services provides students and alumni with the necessary professional development tools and skills to prepare for any post-undergraduate transition. The Office of Career Services assists with the decision-making process in the areas of career exploration and discovery, graduate school preparation, and job searching. Career Services also facilitates the development of significant connections between students/alumni and employers. Through partnering with the academic departments, Career Services strongly encourages and promotes the value of internships as a demonstrable way for students to prepare for future employment opportunities. By working closely with the Office of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations, Career Services introduces current students to alumni who are able to share their professional experiences. These networking opportunities offer valuable insight into various career paths and industries. For more information, please go to: mcla.edu/career-services.