Writing Center experience expands the theoretical and the practical repertoire of future teachers and writers. Many of our coaches major in other subjects than Writing, Literature, and English, and they have found that their training working as coaches has given them an advantage in the job market. The interaction with a diverse group of writers broadens the understanding of the writing processes and of writing as a way of learning. It deepens the understanding and respect for students as unique individuals and their work.
Aspiring writers find opportunities for extensive focus on and discussion of writing and our workers often report great improvement in their own writing during their Write Place employment.
Interested students should contact Dr. Tim Fountaine.
Our writing coaches find themselves in a community of student-writers who support and challenge one another, who form lasting friendships, who cultivate and value leadership, self-motivation, and respect and compassion for individuals and groups. They learn to be better writers as they consider and converse about the writing of others.
Students who want to be writing center coaches either as undergraduate students or as graduate assistants should enroll in ENGL 353 (undergraduate) or ENGL 654 (graduate). The courses provide the conceptual and practical knowledge necessary for one-on-one teaching of writing. Students who successfully complete one or both classes are invited to submit letters of application and intent to the Write Place director.
The SCSU Writing Centers offer several graduate assistantships each year.
The positions available -- graduate writing coach or graduate assistant director -- are competitively awarded. Tutoring experience and successful completion of ENG 654 is required for assistant directors. Future assistant director candidates should apply soon for a tutoring position.
Our reception desk workers answer phones, make appointments, do data entry, work on special projects, answer student and faculty questions, report technology problems, and are the first people to greet students who come to the Write Place.
You must first be eligible for work study funds, but we look for people who are organized, personable and creative problem solvers.
Reception desk workers have ready access to writing experts, often become a better writer through "osmosis," and are part of the close writing center family.
To apply, first determine if you qualify for work study funds through the Financial Aid office. Then contact Dr. Tim Fountaine.