Without a doubt, tutoring is a high impact solution to educational inequity, offering tailored, encouraging support to individual students. Since the pandemic, investment in tutoring has risen and, thanks to technological advances, it’s more accessible than ever. According to recent reports, tutoring has become a central pillar of learning recovery efforts, especially in STEM subjects where students often need one-on-one support to build confidence and foundational skills.

As we watch the growth of AI, it’s critical that we remember the core of what makes tutoring so successful: human connection. Supporting a student through a strong human connection is important. With evidence showing that learners who feel a bond with their tutor are more likely to take academic risks, building the growth mindset required to thrive is more important than ever. Here at EnCorps, we have seen what the strength of human connection has done to help students grades and overall confidence.  

What does it mean to create a strong student/ tutor relationship? Sometimes that can feel daunting, especially when connecting across technology, across the country and across generations. Based on experience, we know that all it takes is empathy, communication and a little bit of humor. 

How can you establish a strong relationship with your virtual students? Here are some tips that have helped our STEMx Tutors:

  • Set a warm tone from day one: Take a few minutes in your first session to ask about the student’s interests and goals. Small talk isn’t wasted time—it lays the foundation for trust.
  • Keep the camera on (when possible): Nonverbal cues like eye contact, smiles, and nods go a long way in creating a sense of presence and care.
  • Be predictable and reliable: Show up on time, follow through on what you say you’ll do, and let your student know they can count on you.
  • Celebrate small wins: Whether it’s solving a tricky problem or staying focused for an entire session, recognition helps reinforce effort and progress.
  • Adapt your style: Not every student responds to the same approach. Be open to feedback, and adjust your strategies to meet your students where they are.

We are excited to explore this topic at the EnCorps Learning Summit 2025, where some of our long-term STEMx tutors and students will be sharing their experiences of building relationships through our flagship tutoring program. We hope to see you there!