Writing – What We Do
The Learning Center can help you in all stages of the writing process; even published writers need feedback to develop their writing to the fullest. We focus on helping you to improve as a writer, not just improve your writing. We are not a drop-off service, nor do we “fix” papers. We give you the tools to become a better writer; we do not do the writing for you.
We will work with you on papers for classes, but we can also help you with grammar or other writing-related issues. If you have something you want to learn or improve on, please come visit us. Let us know how we can help you.
Using the Learning Center:
- Come to the Learning Center early in the writing process, not the day the paper is due.
- Plan to come more than once, especially if you have grammar or ESL issues.
- Bring your textbook, assignment sheet, and notes about the requirements.
- Think about what you want to focus on during the session.
- Sign in on the check-in computer when you enter the Learning Center.
You Can Expect To:
- Take the initiative; after all, this is your paper and your ideas.
- Plan to spend about 30-60 minutes.
- Focus on global concerns like thesis and development first.
- Address lower order concerns like grammar and punctuation later in the process.
- Do your own thinking and your own revision.
- Take notes on what you discuss and what you plan to do next.
Please Don’t:
- Think that you can drop your paper off for “editing” or proofreading.
- Assume that the tutor is going to “fix” everything.
- Ask the tutor to grade your paper.
- Wear fragrances. Be considerate of the small space and other students who may have sensitivities or allergies.
- Arrive 15 minutes before closing and expect a helpful session.
- Bring in a paper that’s due in a few hours, leaving little or no time for revision.
- Only focus on grammar. Think about content and your paper’s argument.
- Leave thinking you have a perfect paper. What you will have is ideas on how to revise and improve your paper, and a greater awareness of your strengths and weaknesses as a writer.
Remember: Every piece of writing is a work in progress.
Every writer is a work in progress too: growing, improving, experimenting, and learning.
Please come visit us and let us know how we can help you!