Studying for Success: A Tutors Experience

Photo of Rileigh Shiplo

By Emmett Steele | 3rd year Journalism student

For many students, the thought of studying quickly turns into a nightmare. For paralegal student and Study Skills Tutor Rileigh Shiplo, it’s an opportunity to do what she does best. 

Rileigh’s journey as a student at Mohawk is the latest step in her budding career in Law. “I have always been interested in law, in high school, it was my best and favourite subject,” says Rileigh. I decided to study Law in university, and when I graduated, I had to figure out what my next step was. She landed on being a paralegal when she found the paralegal program offered at Mohawk. I chose Mohawk because it's a great school, it has an awesome program, and provides many resources and opportunities for its students,” says Rileigh. 

I’ve really enjoyed my program,Rileigh continues. “The classes are all relevant and interesting. The professors are supportive and have done what they can to make the online experience a good experience. My favourite part is that we have a field placement working in the industry. It's a great opportunity to learn, gain experience and potentially be hired! 

Rileigh has no regrets about pursuing her passion for law, and she encourages others who are interested to see what the paralegal program has to offer. “My advice would be if the law is something you are passionate about then just go for it! You will learn a lot and figure out what areas of law you are interested in, and the staff and your fellow students will be there to support you through the journey,” she says. 

As a Study Skills tutor, Rileigh knows a lot about the support available for students. She works with the Learning Support Centre at Mohawk to help students brush up on their study skills and learn the most effective ways to retain information. 

I chose to join the LSC team because I wanted to be able to help other students succeed and not feel alone or isolated in the online environment,” says Rileigh. “I love connecting one on one with other students from other programs. Since we are not in person it can be hard to get to know people, but this has given me a chance to meet and connect with so many different people! I also of course love when students tell us how much the different resources have helped them! 

Rileigh has a message for students who may be hesitant to visit the LSC for support: 

Never be afraid to ask for help! it is not a shameful thing,” says Rileigh. We all need help from time to time and it is better to tackle the problems quickly than let them pile up. Mohawk has so many great resources, if you are struggling in any way never be afraid to reach out and figure out what resources may be best for you. 

Students who are thinking of joining the LSC to help other students on campus have Rileigh’s full support.If you are considering it at all then I would say to 100% apply! We hire around 90 students a semester, so there are a lot of different positions available, and it is a great thing to be a part of,” she says. “The jobs are also super flexible and work around your busy school life, I would recommend it to anyone who has an interest in helping fellow students. 

If you would like to learn more about the services offered by the Learning Support Centre, or how you can help to support your fellow students, visit mohawkcollege.ca/learning-support-centre.