Tutoring Services

The Career Placement and Tutoring Department embodies the mission of Galveston College by supporting accessible learning opportunities, providing an inclusive and welcoming environment, and supplying quality tutoring, workshops, and consultation. We support student learning and academic success, as well as delivering career readiness skills and job opportunities that empower students during and after graduation.

Tutoring Resources

  • One-on-One and small group appointments in Mary Moody Northen Hall- Room N-200
  • Online with Upswing- Access Upswing in your Canvas Now! See Instructions below!

  • Come in person to N-200. 
  • Call us at 409-944-1399 to schedule over the phone.
  • Email Us Here
  • Students; please remember to bring your GC student ID with a current semester sticker to show you are currently enrolled. 

  •  English 
  • Calculus 1 
  • Physics 1
  • Chemistry 1 & 2
  • Developmental Math
  • Pre and College Algebra
  • History
  • Government
  • Speech
  • Biology
  • Psychology

ALL subjects not offered in person are available through Upswing, our FREE virtual online tuturing platform, available to all GC students through Canvas.

Can't make it to in person tutoring? Get connected with an expert tutor in Upswing's Lesson Space in Canvas! Follow These Steps:

  • Log in to Canvas​
  • Find the Upswing logo (usually listed inside each course or course list)
  •  Click “Connect with a Live Tutor”​
  • Type and select the subject you need help with​
  • Write or copy/paste a short description of the assignment or problem you’re trying to solve​
  • Click submit and you will be connected to a live tutor in less than 60 seconds!

ALL GC courses are offered through Upswing, excluding advanced Radiology.

 

Find Your Tutor

Barbara

Barbara Willis

Barbara Willis graduated from Eastern New Mexico University with a BS in K-12 Math Education, specializing in remediation education and methods to help people who struggle with math. Rather than earning a Master’s degree, she chose to take multiple classes and workshops to learn new ways to help students who struggle with basic math and algebra concepts, as well as other learning disabilities from Texas Tech, Eastern, Emporia State Teachers College, Lubbock Christian College, and various Community colleges in the Panhandle.

After teaching in public schools for 32 years, she retired from full time teaching. Barbara has been an adjunct math professor at Midland College, College of the Mainland, and Galveston College. Her area of expertise is in basic math and algebra, helping students who need a bit of “review” or patient encouragement. Her life goal has always been to be a supportive, positive teacher helping people as they succeed.

 

William Kanost

William Kanost is a dedicated math tutor and proud father who brings patience, insight, and a genuine love for learning to every session. With years of experience helping students overcome academic challenges, William is passionate about building confidence and clarity in math—one student at a time. Whether he's explaining complex algebraic concepts or encouraging a student after a tough test, William believes in meeting learners where they are and helping them discover what they're capable of.

Portrait of Eli Bivens

Eli Bivens

 

Eli Bivens has tutored and taught all age groups in various disciplines, including Botany, German, English, Algebra, and Ballet. Eli is a lifelong student and is passionate about equitable access to education. At Galveston College, Eli tutors in English, Writing, Formatting, APA, MLA, and Biology. Eli is also available to assist you with studying skills and organization, as well as provide moral support or body doubling while you brainstorm or study independently. Eli is a patient tutor and believes that a curious mind and a strong will can take you as far as you want to go.

An alumnus of Sam Houston State University, Eli graduated with honors, earning a degree in English with a minor in German Studies and a concentration in Biology. After graduation, Eli moved to Germany on a Fulbright grant, where they spent 10 months working as a tutor to vocational high school students studying for their A-levels. Since returning to the United States, Eli has worked as a Carpenter Apprentice, Copywriter, Graphic Designer, Mosaic Artist and Preschool Teacher. Eli intends to pursue their master's and Ph.D. in German Studies and Applied Linguistics, with the hope that their research will help narrow the gap between disabled communities and accessible opportunity in the field of foreign languages.

 

Faith Lesly

 

 

Sean Beckwith Ritter

 

Sean Beckwith-Ritter is a versatile and passionate tutor specializing in Pre-Calculus, Calculus I & II, Linear Algebra, Chemistry I & II, and Statistics. A Galveston native and current student at LSU of Alexandria, Sean holds Associate of Science degrees in both Psychology and Mathematics, with academic interests that span behavioral psychology, clinical research, math theory, and English literature.

At 29, Sean brings both depth and relatability to tutoring—helping students build confidence in challenging subjects while keeping the learning environment engaging and approachable. Outside the classroom, he’s a sports fanatic who enjoys surfing, hiking, camping, and studying film and comedy. He’s also passionate about animal and plant conservation, often bringing his curiosity for the natural world into the learning space.

Joe Willis

Joe Willis brings over 20 years of teaching experience to his role as a peer tutor in writing, government, and speech. Currently teaching Speech and Communications courses at both Galveston College and College of the Mainland, Joe is passionate about helping students find clarity and confidence in their communication—whether it's on paper or in front of an audience.

With a deep understanding of academic writing, civic knowledge, and public speaking, Joe offers students a supportive, thoughtful approach to learning that draws on decades of classroom expertise. His commitment to student success makes him a valued mentor and resource in the Tutoring Center.

 

Questions? Contact Us.

Career Placement and Tutoring Coordinator
[email protected]
409-944-1399
409-944-1500

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