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First-Year Composition Links and Resources
Please browse the subject areas below for resources of particular relevance to you, the first-year composition student.
- Academics
- Documentation: MLA Style Guides
- Grammar, Spelling Usage, and Style
- The Research Paper
- Computing
Academics
- Catamount Academic Tutoring (CAT) Center
Contact the CAT Center’s Coordinator, Chesney Reich, in 60 McKee at 227-2273/2274 or visit the CAT Center website to find out more about workshop offerings in areas such as time management, note-taking, goal-setting, and exam preparation. - Student Support Services (including disabilities)
Contact Carol Mellen, director, at 227-7127. - University Writing Center
Located on the entry-level floor of Hunter Library, the Writing Center provides free peer tutoring to all WCU students, especially students in FYC courses. Call 227-7197. Visit the website for hours. - English Department
Visit it for interesting and important information on everything from job opportunities to grammar help.
Documentation: MLA Style Guides
- The University Writing Center electronic guide to MLA citation.
- A Research Guide for Students
Grammar, Spelling, Usage, and Style
- The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation
- American Heritage Book of English Usage
- Strunk and White’s Elements of Style
- American Heritage Dictionary
- The Guide to Grammar & Writing
- The Internet Grammar of English
- HyperGrammar
The Research Paper
Computing
- Computing Requirement at WCU
- Information Technology Services
Visit the IT Services website for information from how to use your student email account to when you can sign up to take a workshop on PowerPoint or WebCT. - Open Access Computer Labs
Visit the Computer Labs website to learn more about lab locations, hours, and support services. - ResNet Computing Consultants
Check your residence hall for flyers. If you have any problem making contact with an RCC, contact the Help Line at 227-7284. - Computer Hardware Repair
If your computer or printer starts to have problems related to the equipment, not the software, try one of the following leads. If the equipment is new, the warranty may still be good. Contact the manufacturer; look for a phone number in the documentation that you received with the equipment. The store where you bought the computer also may be able to help you. Computer Dynamics On-Campus, 70 McKee Building, can do some hardware repairs, depending on the equipment's warranty and nature of the problem. If you aren't sure whether you have a hardware problem or a software problem, call the Computer Center Help Line at 227-7284, and they will help you troubleshoot the problem. - CatOnline
Visit for tutorials in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, as well as basic computer skill information. - Office of Education Outreach/Continuing Education
Need some basic instruction in computer skills or keyboarding? Contact the Office of Continuing Education at 227-7397 to request a mini-course.







