As a new semester begins and students return to their studies at Weber State University, countless papers will be assigned. Whether writing a fictional short stories or a scientific research papers, students have the greatest tool to their advantage right on campus.
Located in Elizabeth Hall, the Writing Center is an office with skilled tutors to help students develop their writing skills. For years, this center has helped students in areas like composition, grammar and structure. Each tutor receives national certification through the College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA).
“The training helped me so much,” Writing Tutor Mac Walker said. Claire Hughes, coordinator of the ASCP Writing Center & DE Center, agrees. “The tutors’ eyes are opened to their own skills and [the training] helps them to address the needs of the students,” she said.
“Students don’t need to have their paper written to set up an appointment,” Hughes said. “The tutors are there to walk beside the student every step of the way.”
No matter what the subject of the student’s paper is, be it English, history, science or anything in between, the Writing Center is prepared to tackle any topic. “Most of our tutors are non-English majors,” Hughes continued. The tutors are trained in the various styles of formatting used across the curriculum.
Many of the tutors found the Writing Center by taking in their papers in for feedback. The support they received motivated them to become tutors themselves. “Students are appreciative of the tutors helping them understand the structure of the paper,” Matthew Drollette, a tutor, said. “They told me what worked and loved having that support.”
Students can walk in to set up an appointment or drop in. Sessions are scheduled for approximately 30 minutes. The tutor will listen to the student’s concerns about the paper and its requirements, the tutor will then read the paper aloud and then any structural and syntactical problems will be addressed, and possible improvements to the paper’s composition will be discussed. “It’s the best to see the student understand the concept and catch mistakes during the session,” Walker said.
In addition to having a face-to-face session with a tutor, the Writing Center also has an online writing lab. Students can submit their paper or story for feedback, which will be sent to the student within two to three days. The Writing Center’s web page also has online material, such as grammar rules and instructional videos for a quick refresher and study aid.
“Anyone can write,” Walker continues. “We are students too. We are here to help the students.” No matter the subject, the tutors are there for WSU students. Whether it is a review of a certain writing style or learning about composition, students will find the help they need at the Writing Center. “It’s one of those jobs where you get thanked every few minutes for helping the student develop their ideas,” Hughes said.
Fall and Spring Hours:
Monday- Thursday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
