Get the answers to your most frequently asked questions!
- Does my paper have to be finished before I come in?
- Do I need to make an appointment?
- What if I can't keep an appointment?
- May I drop my paper by and pick it up later?
- How much of my paper will a tutor write?
- Will I have my ideas criticized or my paper edited to shreds?
- Will revising my paper based on a tutor's suggestions guarantee me an A?
- What if my experience isn't positive?
- I would like to work as a writing tutor. What positions are offered?
Does my paper have to be finished before I come in?
A. No, you can visit us during any stage of the writing process. Sometimes it's even more helpful to come before you begin. For any visit, always bring your assignment instructions. Tutors can assist you with brainstorming for ideas, organizing thoughts, and formulating a thesis. These appointments are collaborative in nature and often get writers off to an enthusiastic and productive start.
Q. Do I need to make an appointment?
A. Yes, we prefer that you schedule a time to come in. When you schedule an appointment, your tutor will be more prepared and able to help you. However, if you need help at any time, drop by. We will make every effort to assist you.
Q. What if I can't keep an appointment?
A. If something comes up, call us at 227-7197 to reschedule or cancel so we can offer your appointment time to another student.
Q. May I drop my paper off and pick it up later?
A. No, students must be present to work with a tutor. We do not provide copy-editing services; our sessions are interactive and collaborative.
Q. How much of my paper will a tutor write?
A. Tutors will ONLY make suggestions about how to resolve any issues in your paper. Larger issues include a writer's thesis, organization, and evidence. Smaller, fine-tuning issues include sentence structure, word choice, grammar, and punctuation. It's up to you, the student, to understand the tutor's suggestions and to revise your paper based on your new understanding. Ask questions and make notes for yourself for later. The more a tutor knows what you're thinking, the more helpful the tutor can be.
Q. Will I have my ideas criticized or my paper edited to shreds?
A. No, tutors strive to be positive and help you improve as a writer. We want you to enjoy both the writing process and your time here. Your tutor will make sure your ideas and questions come first.
Q. Will revising my paper based on a tutor's suggestions guarantee me an A?
A. No, a tutor's suggestions can only help to strengthen the paper, not perfect it. Tutors cannot grade (or influence how your professor grades) your paper.
Q. What if my experience at the Writing Center isn't positive?
A. Just as students have different personalities and working styles, so do tutors. We value our diversity as a staff and recognize that not all students will connect well with every tutor. If your experience is neither pleasant nor helpful, please contact Leah Hampton at 227-3426 or at lhampton@wcu.edu. She will try to connect you with a more compatible tutor for your next visit.
Q. I would like to be a writing tutor. What positions are offered?
A. All our writing tutors are students at WCU. Graduate assistants provide one-on-one tutoring in the center, while undergraduate students work in the Writing Fellows program. If you are interested in applying for a graduate assistantship, please contact Leah Hampton (828-227-3426; mailto:lhampton@email.wcu.edu). To become a Writing Fellow, follow the link above to our program information page.