By Elana Melzer, Head Producer of McK Radio
Title photo submitted by MaryAnn Romagna
While walking across campus, you have likely seen the flyers about the SAMs, or Student Academic Mentors. But what do the SAMs do, and why should students take advantage of their services? I sat down with one of the SAMs, MaryAnn Romagna, to answer these questions and more!
What are the SAMs?
The SAMs are one of the many free services available for students at McKendree. As MaryAnn said, “SAMs are Student Academic Mentors, and we are part of ResLife. We hold hours once a week in the ALC [Academic Learning Center] from 6 to 10 p.m., and students can come and ask us for help with homework during that time.”
What do the SAMs specialize in?
MaryAnn specializes in math and science, but there are also four other SAMs. Each SAM specializes in a different area, meaning that every student has someone to go to for help. The SAMs are all fellow McKendree students, so they most likely have taken the class that someone asked them for help with.
How do the SAMs help students?
“The SAMs are based on student needs,” MaryAnn stated. “You can come in with a question or if you’re struggling. We can help you make a plan.” The SAMs are also on a first-come, first-served basis. If you arrive in the ALC and ask the SAM a question or for help first, they will prioritize you before those who asked for help after you.
What do the SAMs do outside of their time in the ALC?
“We essentially do the same things as RAs,” MaryAnn said. “We just don’t do programs [activities RAs host for their floor to get students involved].” But the SAMs also do things that the RAs don’t. According to MaryAnn, “We do academic checks on people. If someone is struggling with a class or not going to class, we get a notice and let the student know how we can help them.”
Who are the other 2024-2025 SAMs?
Including MaryAnn, there are five SAMs on campus, each available on a different day of the week. On Sundays, you can ask Sean for help with music education and general education. Grace is available on Mondays, and she specializes in communication, psychology and writing. Brooke, who specializes in special education, elementary education and general education, is available on Tuesdays. On Wednesdays, you can see Matias for international student assistance or help with finance and business. Finally, MaryAnn specializes in math and science and is available on Thursdays.
So whenever you find yourself confused about a homework assignment or topic, stop by the ALC from 6 to 10 p.m. and ask a SAM!
