Central Washington University

Writing Consultants at the University Writing Center work with students of all levels and disciplines, facilitating each writer's progress through a spirit of collaboration.

Who comes to the University Writing Center?

During the 2007-2008 academic year, the University Writing Center facilitated 3,032 consultations with writers of all stages and levels, freshman through graduate.

A common misconception is that the center is only for freshman students or for English classes.

Types of writing/stages of writing

Sessions can cover brainstorming, outlining, developing a thesis, organizing, formatting, etc. Sessions can focus on academic papers, business letters, resumes, and other types of writing.

Consultants are peer writers — with expertise

A couple are instructors but most are graduate and undergraduate staff who have gone through a training program. The model is Kenneth Bruffee's "community of like-minded peers."

Format is two peer writers talking about writing

Consultants talk one-on-one with student writers.
The session is collaborative.
The session is for the student, and he or she is in control.
They work together to figure out which direction the writing could go.

Your Session

The sessions last up to 50 minutes and are free.
In-person sessions can involve a computer or a printed draft.
Online sessions use live screen-sharing.
It's helpful to bring the assignment sheet and/or research materials.

Writers with Disabilities:

The University Writing Center serves all CWU students. Because we tailor each session to what works for each student, appropriate accommodations are naturally made. The student leads the session and can ask for a specific method to be used, for instance, brainstorming on a computer instead of with pen and paper.

The IWCA statement on disabilities.
The Center for Disabilities Services webpage.