Spring break reading suggestions as told by the tutors!

Congratulations–you made it to Spring Break 2k15!

As you’re heading off to the beach (or wherever your spring break destination may be), consider these book recommendations from the CRC tutors if you’re looking for something good to read over break!

“My spring break book suggestions are Divergent and Insurgent because the Insurgent movie comes out Friday, March 20!” – Kristina Emmerson

“I recommend The Red Tent by Anita Diamant, but my personal favorite is No Exit by Jean Paul Sarte. This is a thought-provoking read that will give you a new insight on how you won’t want to spend the rest of your eternity.” – Chandler McLarren

Depending on what kind of book you’re looking for, Hannah Reynolds has several to recommend:

1. ‘Til We Have Faces by C.S. Lewis – “It’s a novel, I promise!” says Hannah.
2. Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes – “This one is only marginally depressing,” she says.
3. Bruchko by Bruce Olson – “Shameless missionary plug,” she laughs. “Fight me.”
4. Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? And Other Concerns by Mindy Kaling – “This one has absolutely no literary value whatsoever, but it is also absolutely hilarious. It’s completely stream of consciousness and requires no shred of critical thought–like reading a giant hilarious blog but feeling better about yourself because it’s printed in a book,” she says.

“There are a couple of different ways you can go as far as vacation reading is concerned. If you’re looking for something with literary value and haven’t read A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens, read it. It’s my favorite book of all time. Seriously. If you’re looking for something that’s a bit less challenging/academic but still has literary value, I suggest Bel Canto by Ann Patchett. I recently read it and loved it! Finally, I am also a shameless fan of Nicholas Sparks, so if you’re looking for a lighter read, I love A Bend in the Road. That’s my favorite one of his books.” – Claire Per-Lee

No matter what you choose to read, all of us at the CRC hope you have a wonderful, relaxing spring break!

Never fear, the CRC is here!

Time seems to fly especially fast during the spring. It seems like the semester just started, and yet advisers have already started sending out the “come meet with me so we can figure out what classes you need to take in the fall” emails.

This is the time of year when you wake up in the morning, ready for your afternoon nap before your feet even hit the floor. Your theme song becomes Dory from Finding Nemo singing, “Just keep swimming, just keep swimming…” on a never ending loop in your head. We’ve all been there. Actually, if we’re being honest, we’re all probably still there. Such is college. At least you’re in good company.

So how could you possibly think about next fall when you barely have the energy to make it through the classes at hand? With the support and encouragement of your friendly neighborhood tutors in the CRC, of course!

We are here to help you survive the classes you’re in now. And next semester? We promise we’re not going anywhere. Don’t let those upper level classes intimidate you. We can help with papers, public speaking, projects and even reading comprehension. Let us be the first to assure you: you absolutely can do it!

Whether you’re signing up for  core classes or embarking on your senior thesis, we are committed to being a resource for all Samford students.

Not an official Samford student yet? Maybe you’re a high school senior anticipating that huge college decision and transition that is right around the corner. If that’s you, take a deep breath. College is great! (Though, I realize you may be skeptical after reading the “just keep swimming” comment above. Sorry about that.)

In the CRC, we are here to help you through your first big paper or speech. Our tutors are undergraduate students themselves, which allows you to work with a tutor who can relate to those stressful weeks you’re facing and has even taken a lot of the same classes that you need help with.

Not only do we have speaking tips and grammar expertise, but we also have candy. It’s a proven fact that all papers, projects and speeches can be conquered with the help of a little candy. So there’s that.

Don’t just take our word for it, though. Check out what these freshmen had to say about their experiences in the CRC:

“I love the CRC! I came last semester, and my professor noticed all my efforts! I suggested it to a friend, and they tried it and loved it, too! It’s so helpful!” – Hannah

“The CRC is the best–always helpful. I’m so glad we have this student resource.” – Jessica

“I love how quick and effective the tutors are. They help me so much with each visit!” – Tayler

Moral of the story? Make an appointment with the CRC today (go to samford.mywconline.com)! By coming in for a tutoring session anytime between now and April 2, you will be entered to win a Starbucks gift card! Don’t miss out on this awesome, caffeine-related opportunity! (We know you could use the caffeine. Let’s be real. It’s midterms week.)

We’re looking forward to seeing you in the CRC! Until then, just keep swimming.