Albin Thampy Kurian, a third-year electrical and computer engineering
student at Drexel University, has found himself on both sides of the
tutoring desk at the
Academic Center for Engineers (ACE).
Kurian, originally from India, chose Drexel for its openness to
international students and the opportunity for co-op experiences. "I was
specifically looking for a computer engineering program, and Drexel offered
that along with valuable co-op opportunities," Kurian said. He has since
expanded his studies to pursue a dual degree in computer and electrical
engineering.
During his first year, Kurian struggled to adjust to the pace of classes at
Drexel. "When I first arrived, I wasn't aware of the tutoring services
available. Adapting to the class structure and pace was quite challenging
for me," he recalled.
A friend encouraged him to seek help and
scheduled a tutoring session.
The experience proved valuable, particularly due to the peer-to-peer nature
of the tutoring at ACE, which part of Drexel’s
Academic Resource Center (ARC), located in the Korman Center.
"The tutor was a fellow engineering student, which immediately created a
comfortable connection," Kurian explained. "It made it much easier for me to
ask questions without hesitation. Sometimes, we're afraid to ask professors
certain questions, worried they might seem too basic. But with a peer tutor,
that barrier doesn't exist."
Inspired by the help he received, Kurian decided to become a tutor himself.
"After experiencing the benefits firsthand, I decided to join as a tutor. By
that time, I had completed most of the basic courses and felt ready to help
others," he said. After an interview process and showing that he had earned
a B+ or better in the courses he wanted to tutor for, he was accepted into
the program. Now, Kurian assists fellow students in a variety of subjects,
including math, calculus and several early-level ECE couraces.
Kurian finds the experience rewarding. "There's a real satisfaction in
seeing a student's face light up when they finally understand a concept," he
said. He noted that students often schedule multiple sessions with him,
which he sees as a sign of the value they find in his assistance.
When asked what advice he would give to students hesitant about seeking
tutoring, Kurian encouraged them to reach out. "I strongly recommend
contacting ACE or scheduling a meeting with a tutor," he said. "We've been
through the same assignments and challenges, so we're well-equipped to help
with specific questions or problems."
Beyond his tutoring work, Kurian has engaged in other academic pursuits at
Drexel. He participated in a first-year design competition, winning second
place for a device that uses sound to deter birds from colliding with
buildings.
Looking ahead, Kurian plans to pursue a career as a data analytics engineer
after graduation. This interest stems from his co-op experience with PECO,
where he worked as a data analytics engineer. "It was an incredibly valuable
experience that I thoroughly enjoyed. I'm excited to continue down this
career path," he said.
Through his journey from struggling first-year student to accomplished
tutor, Albin Thampy Kurian exemplifies the potential for growth and peer
support within Drexel's academic community.