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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What happens during a Writing Center session?

We begin the session by sitting down and reading the document together, but each consultation varies depending on what you want to work on. From brainstorming to polishing manuscripts, no matter the writing assignment, we can help.

You should bring: (1) A print or electronic copy (on a laptop, we do not have computers to use) of your writing. If you haven’t written anything yet, but would like help brainstorming, we are happy to assist you with that part of the process. (2) The assignment sheet. This is a critical part of the session because consultants need to be able to help you complete the specific prompt. (3) Your instructor’s full name and email address if you plan to ask for an Instructor Letter.

It is important that you plan your Writing Center visits in advance. You should be aware that while we have multiple locations open at various hours, there are times in the semester when we are busier and have fewer (sometimes no) open appointments. Please plan time for visiting the Writing Center and revising after your session. Visiting the Writing Center one hour before an assignment is due will not allow adequate time for you to implement the feedback.

Yes. When you visit the Writing Center, you can request an Instructor Letter, a descriptive account of what happened during your session. We email Instructor Letters at your request, so if your instructor requires one or would like one to be sent, please remember to inform your tutor. You should come prepared with the instructor’s first name, last name, and email address.

If you make a 50-minute-appointment, you should plan to stay for the majority of the time and discuss multiple points. While we understand that you are fulfilling a course requirement, you may be surprised at how helpful it can be to work with a tutor on your writing. Ultimately, it is your choice how long you stay at the Writing Center, but please keep in mind that when emailing your instructor, our consultants will give a detailed account of the time you spent and what was discussed.

Yes. While we will not complete the peer review by answering a set of questions, we will walk you through the review process, answering questions and providing feedback.

We do not work with take-home exams unless your assignment sheet specifically states that Writing Center consultants are allowed to assist you.

What should I bring with me to a Writing Center session?

How much time should I allow for visiting the Writing Center as part of my writing process?

Is it possible for you to inform my instructor that I visited the Writing Center?

My Instructor asked me to go to the Writing Center for extra credit. Do I still have to stay for the entire 50 minutes?

What if I miss a Peer Review/Critique session? Can I come to the Writing Center for a peer review?

Can I bring my take-home exam and work on that for a session?

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