By Fatima Salinas
Life in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences can be exciting but challenging, as large lectures, demanding exams and fast paced semesters push students to develop new academic strategies.
To support students, CLAS offers a range of free academic and non-academic resources, including supplemental instruction, tutoring centers, writing support, and study skills programs.
These tools are available to all students and are designed to build understanding, improve student success, and boost confidence in the classroom.
What is Supplemental Instruction
Supplemental instruction (SI) is a free study program connected to certain classes that students often find challenging. SI sessions are led by undergraduate students who have already taken the same course and have done well.
During these sessions, students review class material, work through problems and prepare for exams together. SI helps students better understand course content, feel more confident, and stay on track throughout the semester.
Where you can find Supplemental Instruction
Supplemental Instruction is coordinated through the Academic Resource Center (ARC). Students can usually find out if their course offers SI Information on course syllabi, shared by instructors during class or posted on the ARC website. SI schedules and locations are typically available online, making it easy for students to plan sessions around their classes.
Study skills and academic success programs
Doing well in classes is not just about understanding the material. Good study habits, time management, and staying organized matters just as much. CLAS and the Academic Resource Center offer workshops and programs that help students build these skills.
Students can also use Learning at Iowa resources, which offer self-guided tools they can access anytime. When used alongside SI and tutoring, these programs help students build habits that support success throughout college.
For example, Lauren Doskocil, a third-year student, double majoring in Biomedical Science and Neuroscience, said that SI has been a very helpful tool that has helped her throughout her time at the UI.
“Many students in intro level classes benefit from SI because peer collaboration is used to align practice with in-class learning objectives,” Doskocil said. “It is led by peers, and a positive learning environment is fostered through activities and open discussion. SI leaders are very friendly and always open to questions. On exam weeks, SI rooms are packed with peers!”
Additionally, Third-year student Aliese Schmatlz, a data science major in the UG2 program shared that being an SI leader has been one of the most meaningful experiences of her college career.
“Being an SI leader gave me a sense of purpose and helped me find my voice as a mentor and advocate for student success,” Schmatlz said. “Student success shows up in the confidence students gain when they realize they can tackle challenging material on their own. The most meaningful moments come when students express how SI has helped them succeed.”
How to make the most of these resources
Start using academic support early in the semester rather than waiting until midterms or finals. Attending SI sessions regularly, even when a course feels manageable, can strengthen understanding over time.
Students can also benefit from using multiple resources, such as combining SI with subject-specific help centers or the Writing Center. Asking questions, participating actively, and treating academic support as a normal part of college life helps students get the most from these services.
Additional CLAS support
Academic support is part of a larger network of resources available to CLAS students. The CLAS Undergraduate Programs Office provides help with academic advising, degree planning, and questions about academic policies.
Advisors can help students explore majors and minors, plan coursework, and navigate academic challenges. Together, these services work to support students both inside and outside the classroom.