Preparing Students for the Writing Center

Many students come into the Writing Center with the idea that we are a last-minute spot-editing service to fix mistakes. They are often disappointed when we help them with the structural and organizational issues that they should have addressed a few days earlier. The following will help your students have a useful and productive experience at the Writing Center.

What students should know:

• Be aware of major issues with their writing that need to be addressed.
• Come in a few days before the paper is due to have sufficient time to revise their paper
• Come in for assistance with any stage of the writing process.

What teachers can do:

• Show students that you value student participation in the Writing Center. You can put our contact information in your syllabus and give them periodic reminders during class. Many professors require their students to visit the Writing Center as part of their grade or for extra credit.
• Encourage your students to come to the Writing Center at least few days before the assignment is due.
• Schedule your first writing consultations early so that students know what areas they need to work on.

Writing tutors are also available to give brief presentations to explain the purpose and methodology of the Writing Center to your class. To request a visit, call us at 422-4306.