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FAQs

Books Where is the Writing Center?
The Writing Center is located at 310 Philosophy Hall (the first floor when you come in the main entrance) in the far-back right corner. Sessions are also held in Butler Library behind the reference desk on the third floor.

When is the Writing Center open?
Monday through Thursday 10am to 8pm and Friday 10am to 5pm.  Check the online scheduler for hours at Butler Library.

Who are the tutors?
Writing Center consultants are Columbia graduate students from a variety of different departments. They are experienced writers and teachers. Brief biographies of the consultants are available on this website and at the center for your review. 

Who can make an appointment?

Any undergraduate or graduate student enrolled in a Columbia University course. Students at Barnard College working on essays for Barnard courses must use the Barnard Writing Center. Students at Teachers College working on essays for TC courses must use the Teachers College Writing Center.  Students enrolled in Columbia University's School of Social Work should use the School of Social Work's Writing Center.

How do I make an appointment?
Go to our website and use our online scheduler:  http://www.columbia.edu/cu/uwp/main-page/index.html.  Or come by our office and use our scheduling computer in 310 Philosophy. 

Can I request a particular consultant?
Yes. If you find a consultant with whom you work well, make an appointment with her/him again. Developing long-term relationships tends to be fruitful for both the student and the consultant. You may also find a consultant whose expertise matches your area of study by reading the consultant bios on the Writing Center website.

How many sessions a week can I schedule?
Native English speakers may schedule one session per week. Non-native English speakers *and students with learning disabilities* may schedule two sessions per week and to do so should contact the Writing Center at 212-854-3141.

Can I drop in for an appointment?
You may drop by during drop-in hours or if a scheduled appointment is deemed a "no-show."

What should I do if no appointments are available?
Use the online scheduler to sign up to be notified of an opening in the schedule.  Apointments open up every day.

What should I do if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Please try to cancel at least three hours in advance by using the online scheduler or calling 212-854-3141; this way we can give your appointment to someone else.  If you do not cancel your appointment three hours in advance, you will be deemed a no-show.  Please call the center if there are extenuating circumstances.

What happens if I do not show up for my appointment?

If you miss two appointments without calling in advance, you will not be allowed to schedule an appointment at the Writing Center again during the semester.  You will be allowed to use drop-in hours. 

What if I am late for an appointment?
If you are more than ten minutes late, you risk losing your session. Please call us if you are going to be more than ten minutes late [212-854-3886].

What happens in a Writing Center conference?
Writing Center conferences usually begin with the consultant asking you a few questions such as: “What are you working on? What brings you to the Writing Center today? What would you like to focus on during the session? What are your primary concerns about your writing?” Sessions run best if you come prepared to answer these questions. This means reading your paper over before the session and reflecting on your writing so that you may articulate your concerns to the consultant. The more engaged you are with the session, the more you can expect to get out of it.

What kind of writing can I bring?
You may bring any type of writing, at any stage in the process. You may even come to the Writing Center to brainstorm. Getting started can sometimes be the most difficult part, so don’t be afraid to come bounce your ideas off of a consultant. Consultants are also willing to help you read difficult texts or create outlines.

Will my instructor know I have used the Writing Center?
If you are a UW student, your consultant will pass a session report to your instructor unless you ask her not to. These session reports are meant to help your teacher help you become a better writer. Otherwise, your instructor will not know unless you ask us to contact her.

Is it okay for me to bring take-home exams to the Writing Center?
You may only bring take-home exams to the Writing Center if you have received written permission.


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