Do you have more questions about ReachOut?
To find out more about ReachOut, email reachout-staff@mit.edu.
Popular Questions
Who runs ReachOut?
ReachOut is sponsored by the Priscilla King Gray Public Service Center at MIT in collaboration with Cambridge Community Center and East End House.
How do I apply for ReachOut?
New tutors apply at the beginning of every semester and are additionally required to attend an on-site training. Check the ReachOut main page for a link to the current application.
Am I guaranteed a spot if I apply?
Probably! If you submit a thoughtful application, have weekday afternoon availability, and attend the new tutor training, we would love to have you as a ReachOut tutor.
How do I know if I am eligible for Federal Work-Study? What should I do?
After submitting a Reach Tutor Application, you will automatically be notified by email if you are eligible for Federal Work-Study. You will be asked to fill out the paperwork necessary to get paid. Only students with Federal Work-Study in their financial aid package can receive payment. All other students participate in the program as volunteers.
If you have any questions or would like to know whether you are eligible before applying, contact our Community Employment Administrator!
Can I be paid through Federal Work-Study? Can I just volunteer?
Yes! If you have Federal Work-Study eligibility in your financial aid package, you can be paid for your work with ReachOut. More on Federal Work-Study here.
Of course we also welcome volunteer (unpaid) participants!
When are tutoring sessions held, and how are they scheduled?
Since tutoring takes place during an after-school program, all sessions are usually held on weekdays between 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm at Cambridge Community Center and 3 pm and 4 pm at East End House, with some flexibility.
When submitting your application, make sure to provide your availability. Program staff will match you with students at the community center based on your availability.
What’s the time commitment for tutors?
Each tutor must commit for a minimum of two one-hour tutoring sessions a week for (typically with the same children every time). With transportation time, the commitment is about four hours each week, plus whatever time tutors take to prepare between sessions.
Since tutors work with the same children each session, tutors are required to commit to one semester of consistent tutoring.
New tutors are additionally required to attend an on-site training at the beginning of their first semester of tutoring. Tutors only need to attend one training during their time at MIT, even if they continue tutoring through ReachOut in future semesters.