What is the Writing Center?
Writing is an ongoing process requiring many revisions. Peer Tutors at the WSSU Writing Center are committed to ensure that students develop and improve their own writing styles.
We encourage students’ ownership and originality by providing effective writing suggestions and resources. The Writing Center is not a “Fix-It Shop” where Peer Tutors edit and proofread student papers; instead, Peer Tutors help students acquire the necessary writing and communication skills for college level work, as well as for the workplace. The Writing Center strives to help students enhance their critical thinking and organizational skills.
Who can come to the Writing Center?
Any student can come to the Writing Center! College students, traditional and non-traditional students, high school, middle school and even elementary school students are welcome.
What do I need to bring to a session in the Writing Center?
Bring a copy of your assignment, your paper, a pen or pencil, relevant source material, and an open mind.
Do I have to make an appointment?
An appointment is not required, but is recommended. Walk-ins are welcome, but writers with an appointment are given first priority.
Can the Peer Tutors edit my paper?
Writing Center Peer Tutors are not “editors.” Instead, they are motivators and writing coaches.
What is the difference between an editor and a tutor?
Editors correct errors, but often do not help students with writing issues. In contrast, Peer Tutors pinpoint major concerns and help students become their own editors. In the Writing Center, we do not revise student papers. Instead, we provide feedback through the revision process so students can revise their own papers.
What is a session like in the Writing Center?
The Writing Center staff greets writers with a friendly smile and introduces them to the Writing Center. Peer Tutors ask questions about the assignment and problems students may have encountered during the writing process. Then, tutors and writers read the paper together to determine an individual plan for revision.
What materials can the Writing Center provide to help me with grammar?
The Writing Center’s grammar handbooks and worksheets are always available for students and a listing of electronic resources is provided.
Can I bring papers from non-English courses?Of course!
Can the Writing Center help me if my first language is not English?Yes.
Can I bring my paper on a disk?No.
Who are the tutors?
Writing Center tutors are highly recommended by professors and have studied the writing process and tutoring theory.
When is the best time to come into the Writing Center?
Do not come to the Writing Center just before the paper is due. Instead, come when the assignment is given, or at least 24 hours before the assignment is due.
Will I get a good grade if I go to the Writing Center?
Maybe. Papers are always better after careful revision.
Can I just drop my paper off and come back later?
No. Since we are not editors, it is not be possible to discuss students’ writing concerns if the paper is simply dropped off.
Does the Writing Center cost anything?
No.
What are the hours of operation for the Writing Center.?
Monday and Wednesday: 12 p.m.- 8 p.m.Tuesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.Friday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. (9/24/05, 10/29/05 and 11/12/05 only)
Where is the Writing Center?
The Writing Center is in Hall-Patterson Room 206.
How can I get in touch with the Writing Center?
Phone: (336) 750-2185E-mail: wssuwritingcenter@yahoo.com.
Can any student become a Peer Tutor?
Yes, we are looking for strong writers from any major or discipline. Please contact the Writing Center if interested in becoming a Peer Tutor.