What happened to the University Writing Center and CAT Center?
The University Writing Center and Catamount Academic Tutoring Center joined forces
May 2011 to become the Writing and Learning Commons (WaLC). While under a different
name, the WaLC’s mission remains the same.
Isn’t tutoring only for students who are failing their classes?
Absolutely not! Students at all levels take advantage of tutoring. Students who make
regular visits to the Writing and Learning Commons (WaLC) often earn higher grades
than students who don't participate in tutoring.
How much does tutoring cost?
WaLC’s services are free to WCU students.
Can I sign up for a regular, weekly appointment with my tutor?
Absolutely! In fact, we encourage students to meet with our tutors regularly throughout
the semester. The best way to improve your writing skills and increase your understanding
of course materials is to dedicate time to those activities every week. Tutoring provides
an excellent way to structure your time. Visit our appointment page for more information, and be sure to review our policies for scheduling and canceling appointments.
How can I make an appointment?
To schedule an appointment with a writing assistant, please call 828-227-2274 or stop
by and see us in 207 Belk. The best way to schedule an appointment with a course tutor
or academic skills consultant is to use TutorTrac, our online scheduling program.
Our appointment page includes step-by-step instructions for using TutorTrac.
Can I make my appointment through email?
No. We must collect several pieces of information from you when scheduling your tutoring
appointments, so please visit our appointment page for information about how to schedule your visits.
Can I get my tutor’s phone number?
To protect the privacy of our tutors, we will only distribute their email addresses.
What do I need to bring to my tutoring sessions?
For course tutoring, please come prepared with your textbook, supplemental readings, class notes, assignments,
writing utensils, calculators, and a list of questions or topics you would like to
cover. For writing appointments, please bring a copy of the assignment instructions given to you by your professor
and two hard copies of your paper (or one hard copy and a laptop).
Many of my class assignments and materials are in Blackboard. Do I need to bring a
laptop to my sessions?
You may bring your own laptop, but tutors also have access to laptops to use during
their sessions.
What should I do if I'm not happy with the assistance I receive in my tutoring sessions?
It is important for us to receive feedback that helps us improve our services. Please
contact the WaLC Director, Chesney Reich, at reich@wcu.edu or 828-227-2273 with any concerns.
I would like to work in the WaLC! Can I apply to become a tutor?
Absolutely! The WaLC is always interested in recruiting successful students. We accept
applications year round, and you can learn more about the application process on our
Employment page.
I have more questions about course tutoring. Where can I go for more information?
Visit our course tutoring page for additional information about what to expect from your tutoring sessions.
I have more questions about writing assistance. Where can I go for more information?
You'll find tons of helpful writing information on our writing support page.
I'm a faculty member, and I'd like to know more about what the WaLC can do to support
my classes. Where can I go for more information?
We're glad you found us! Visit our Faculty Toolbox for information on recommending tutors, requesting in-class workshops, encouraging
your students to visit us, and more!