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Academic Support: Peer Tutoring Program

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Peer Tutoring Program

FAQs for Students Interested in Using Tutoring Sessions

1. What is typically covered during Phase 1 weekly peer review sessions?

  • Each week the peer tutors typically use multiple choice questions to review the concepts from the previous week.

2. How can I sign up for weekly peer review sessions for Phase 1?

  • You will receive an email from Academic Support at the beginning of each course with a link to sign up for sessions.

3. When and where do the Phase 1 peer review sessions take place?

  • Sessions are held virtually on weekdays (typically on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays) between 6-8 PM, starting from the second week of the course and ending the week before the course ends.

4. How long are the Phase 1 sessions?

  • Each session is 90 minutes long, with an additional 30 minutes for Q&A after the session.

5. What is typically covered during Phase 2 weekly peer review sessions?

  • There are seven Phase 2 weekly review sessions scheduled every week, each specific to one clerkship. During the sessions, tutors use NBME style questions to review concepts typically tested on the respective shelf exams.

6. How can I sign up for weekly peer review sessions for Phase 2?

  • Phase 2 peer review sessions don’t require a sign-up. The sessions and the zoom links are posted on Leo. 

7. When and where do the Phase 2 peer review sessions take place?

  • Sessions are held virtually on Zoom. Based on the clerkship, the sessions could either be scheduled on the weekends or weekday evenings. The session schedules are determined based on the individual clerkship schedule and availability of the tutors. 

8. Can I get individual tutoring sessions?

  • Individual tutoring is reserved for students who are actively using Academic Support resources (e.g. working with learning specialists and attending weekly peer review sessions) and require additional support. If you feel you might need an individual tutor please contact hmsomacademicsupport@hmhn.org.

FAQs for Students Interested in Becoming Peer Tutors

1. When are peer tutors recruited?

  • Peer tutoring recruitment begins at the end of the dedicated Step 1/ Step 2 period (mid-February to early March). 

2. What is the criteria to qualify as a peer tutor?

  • To qualify as a peer tutor, you must

    • Be enrolled as a current HMSOM student

    • Have met expectations (ME) in all courses and course components in Phase 1

    • Have passed all Phase 2 clerkship exams

    • Have passed USMLE Step 1 

    • Have scored more than one standard deviation above the passing score (~230 or higher) on Step 2 on first attempt

    • Have maintained high professionalism in both Phase 1 and Phase 2 (e.g. completed all Phase 3 requirements in a timely manner, absence of notices of concern by SPRC, SPS, etc.)

3. What does the recruitment process involve?

  • Qualified students will receive an email invitation from Academic Support in March with a link to the application form. After completing the application form, interested students will attend an information session to clarify any questions and then start the onboarding process. 

4. What is included in the onboarding process?

  • The peer tutoring onboarding process includes:
    • Completing the onboarding form (which includes submission of signed copies of a W9 form and the peer tutor contract)
    • Attending a 60- minute introductory session and two virtual training sessions
    • Observing a peer review session 

5. What if I have one MER in a Phase 1 course, can I still tutor?

  • You might be still considered if you passed USMLE Step 2 on the first attempt with a score above 245 and demonstrated consistent professionalism. If in doubt, please contact hmsomacademicsupport@hmhn.org

6. Are peer tutors compensated?

  • Yes, peer tutors are paid $25 per hour.

7. Are there any additional benefits?

  • All peer tutors receive a certificate of service, and a letter of appreciation from Academic Support following their graduation.

8. Can I be a peer tutor if I am currently on a Research Year?

  • A student who is on a leave of absence to participate in Phase 3 Research and Scholarship activities is not considered an active HMSOM student and therefore will not be eligible to be a peer tutor. Upon return from Leave of Absence to complete the rest of Phase 3 requirements, the student is able to take on any tutoring responsibilities.

9. Can I tutor during my first year of residency?

  • A student who has graduated from HMSOM is not eligible to be a peer tutor.