As Salt Lake Community College enters its second week of fall semester, many students are already realizing that they will be writing — a lot.
There’s no avoiding it — all students have to be proficient writers, as most classes require writing as part of the course work. And for those students who aren’t destined to be award-winning authors, the Student Writing Center is ready to help.
Students mentor students
The main mission of the Student Writing Center is to open up a dialogue about writing.
The center hires qualified SLCC students to mentor other students as peer advisors. These student tutors, along with writing center staff, can clarify all elements of writing, from different writing styles like AP and MLA to audience analysis and rhetoric.
Student Writing Center coordinator Clint Gardner recommends that students bring their original assignment in, with any notes and other markings, to help a tutor “get a better idea of the rhetorical situation.” Students should also come up with a list of questions about their assignment before meeting with a tutor.
In addition to peer-to-peer tutoring, the writing center at Taylorsville Redwood Campus has a non-circulating library of learning materials specifically for writing. Students can stop by any time between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. to access those resources.
How to talk with a tutor
The Student Writing Center provides several ways to set up an appointment.
Tutors are located at six SLCC campuses. Drop-in hours will vary depending on the location. Students will show their OneCard and sign in upon entering, and in some cases, choose a preferred tutor.
The Student Writing Center also provides online advising in three different formats. Students can use the basic service to brainstorm ideas and ask quick questions like how to cite a source from a magazine. For more in-depth questions, the center offers tutoring by email or video chat.
All services are provided to students free of charge.
For more information about the Student Writing Center, call 801-957-4893 or email slccswc@gmail.com.
