Frequently Asked Questions
What would a visit to the University Writing Center (UWC) do for me?
When you come to the writing center you enter a community of writers that care about what you say and will patiently help you master skills that will enable you to express your ideas. Instructors in all departments agree that student writing improves after the student receives informed and quality feedback from the writing center.
Who are the writing consultants?
Writing consultants working in the University Writing Center are graduate and undergraduate students who have been trained through intensive instruction in how to discuss writing with students. Writing consultants are writers themselves coming from departments as various as the School of Medicine to the Department of English.
Who can visit sites of the UWC?
The UWC supports all writing done in the university with the exception of first year composition, English 1100 and 1200, which is supported by the First Year Writing Studio in the Department of English.
What should I bring?
You need to bring a copy of the assignment, any work you have completed, and anything else you would like to discuss. You should be prepared to answer specific questions concerning the assignment.
Do I need to make an appointment?
No. The UWC operates primarily on a walk-in basis. Our Hub is staffed with multiple consultants at all times, so there is rarely a wait.
How long does a session last?
We plan on 30-40 minutes per tutorial session. If you feel you need to return to meet with your consultant more, you are free to make an appointment to see that same consultant. We also see benefits in the decision to see a different consultant each time you need assistance with your writing.
Will a consultant correct my paper for me?
Simply - No. The UWC is not an editing service or a fix-it shop. Writing consultants are teachers who will help you learn how to correct your own mistakes.
What will the consultant and I discuss?
If you have special concerns you would like the consultant to address, those concerns will be the focal point of the tutorial. If you have no stated concerns, the consultant will address two or three major issues. We believe that any more than that will place constraints on how in-depth the session will be in addressing your needs as a writer.
How much does a session at the UWC cost?
Nothing. There is no charge for working with a writing consultant, and we welcome students and faculty from any major or department across the campus.
