Overview
The Writing Center can be utilized by all students at all levels to improve their writing and thinking processes across the curriculum. Through individual conferences, the Writing Center focuses on specific topics to support students, faculty and staff.
Students can work with writing consultants on any type of writing project, at any stage of the process. The Writing Center can help with oral presentations, too.
Send us an email to make an appointment. In-person and remote conferences are available.
The Writing Center Hours
Fall and Spring Semester
Drop-ins and appointments are available, located in the Funderburg Library as part of The Learning Commons.
Mon – Thur: 12pm – 9pm
Friday: 12pm – 5pm
Sunday: 5pm – 9pm
Final Exam Week and January Session by appointment only
Mon – Fri: 8am – 5pm
What do writing consultants do?
Writing consultants help writers think critically about their goals and consider how an audience might respond to key points. They do not copyedit or correct papers – rather, writing consultants teach editing strategies. Additionally, writing consultants focus on development, clarity, organization, grammar, and citation.
Interested in becoming a writing consultant?
Students interested in becoming a writing consultant should apply for the position using Spartan Jobs. They can also contact the director of academic support.
Conference Expectations
- A typical session lasts 20 minutes, depending on the project. Consultants will ask for information to help understand the assignment, and what help is needed.
- If the writing project is in the pre-draft stage, the consultant will help the student to generate ideas about a topic, consider what stylistic choices to make, and outline and diagram ideas
- As a work progresses, the writing consultant can help to organize concepts, clarify main points, and summarize key thoughts. A consultant may ask questions in order to signal a conflict or note a place where more detail or explanation is needed. Students should receive criticism offered by consultants as constructive and objective. Having a consultant is like having a second set of eyes on your side of the desk.
- Working with a writing consultant doesn’t guarantee an “A” on a writing assignment, but it helps students to become more successful overall with writing.
How do I set up a conference?
Students may drop in to the Writing Center to meet with consultants at any time or schedule an appointment. The Writing Center offers both in-person and remote conferencing.
Preparing for a Writing Conference
Make sure you understand the assignment requirements and expectations as best possible.
Gather assignment sheets and syllabi to bring along with you. Be prepared to discuss the purpose and audience for your project.
Bring your materials.
Please bring a copy of your draft or outline, along with notes and related source materials.
Allow at least 20 minutes for your session.
Your consultant will help you to create a plan for your paper; this may entail scheduling additional appointments.
Don't wait until the last minute!
… but if you do … prepare to dedicate a sufficient amount of attention and time to plan and write your paper properly.
FAQs
For whom is the Writing Center designed?
The staff of the Writing Center is committed to helping all students better their writing and thinking processes. Consultants work with first-year students through graduate students on writing projects across the curriculum. Writing Center workshops offer support to students, faculty and staff.
May I just drop off my paper, have it edited, and return after lunch to pick it up?
No, students are not allowed to drop-off papers. Writing Center assistance is centered on individual tutoring and coaching that builds better writing skills and helps to develop competent writers. Consultants do not proof or edit papers, but rather, engage with students to get the most out of their writing potential.
How long will a conference last?
A typical session lasts 20 minutes, depending on the project.
May I just drop in on occasion?
Students may drop in to the Writing Center to meet with consultants at any time, or make an appointment by emailing NMWritingconsultants@manchester.edu. In-person and remote conferences are available.