Tutor profile: Kelley N.

I've read something a million times, but I'm just not getting it. What should I do?

Write it down! The physical act of writing has been shown to improve focus, help you to understand and process information, and improve your memory. If you are struggling to nail down a timeline, remember names, or master a concept, then take the time to write it all down. Use different colors of ink. Underline. Write in different fonts. These strategies should help you to cement the information in your mind.

I have a paper to write. I need 5 sources. Where do I start?

Don't google it! As a college student, I would always recommend starting with your school's library website when beginning research. You most likely have access to some type of amazing, curated collection of databases, full-text articles, e-books, journals, educational videos, and more. Start here and widen the net if necessary.

Explain the role of the "kin keeper" in the modern family?

Sociologists use the umbrella term "kin keeper" to refer to that member of a family that does the work of keeping the family together. Kin keeping is also called "carework" and includes a range of seemingly trivial responsibilities that, when left undone, allow families to erode and lose touch. In the big picture, the kin keeper fosters and maintains relationships within the immediate and extended family. That involves tasks like organizing family gatherings and vacations, remembering birthdays and anniversaries, buying and wrapping gifts and cards, sending thank you notes, and keeping in touch with relatives. While the traditional kin keeper relies largely on face to face interactions to maintain familial relationships, the modern kin keeper, especially in the days of COVID 19, must dig much deeper in order to draw family together. In person gatherings must be organized so that family members can participate in the way that they most feel comfortable and may be required to accommodate outdoor venues, flexible scheduling, and social distancing. In some cases the kin keeper may have to enthusiastically pivot to a less desirable virtual gathering. Modern kin keepers may be required to educate and equip older family members with new technology so that they can stay connected via text messages, social media, emails, FaceTime, and the like. In these situations the kin keeper role has expanded immensely to include shopping for tablets and smart phones and providing technical support.