So, as some of you guys know, I started working at my local community college’s writing center in April of 2016. This was a huge step for me, in many ways, and I would love to give you a taste of what it’s like.

To begin, here’s a little summary of my specific WC’s mission statement:

“The mission of the ******** College Writing Center (BC WC) is to create and facilitate a culture of literacy at ******** College. We believe that literacy education is a life-long process. Life is lumpy. While we might have one plan today, we don’t know what skills we will need in the future. All fields require literacy skills, and reading and writing are components of science, nursing, and workforce programs as well. Effective communication is a skill that employers always need, and the ******** College Writing Center is committed to supporting the reading and writing of our academic and larger community. “

We tutor students directly, teaching them how to tutor THEMSELVES, versus helping them edit specific papers. It’s a really fascinating concept – we work for better writers, NOT better papers. We also work directly with professors and staff to better work with students on the specific classes.

Through my work here, I have gained several things:

1. I have gained MUCH more confidence in social settings. My job has forced me to be more open to strangers, and it has been a wonderful process of coming out of my shell.
2. I have become a better writer. Through my work helping others with their writing, I truly have evolved immensely in my writing – and I have much more confidence in my academics in general. In fact, *I* visit the writing center on my bigger papers, as I’ve really learned how helpful a second pair of eyes can be.
3. I have gained an immense appreciation for writing, and academics. It’s been very eye opening, working with students who do not have this come naturally, and has pushed me to work harder, and further appreciate the natural gifts I have given.
4. I have gotten to work with some INCREDIBLE people. Most specifically – my boss. Her work to improve literacy is so inspiring, and really has pushed me to investigate the area myself.

If you guys have access to a writing center – VISIT IT. Better yet – apply if you can! As a student, I never visited the WC until after I started working there. I thought it was only for students who were struggling… boy was I wrong! It is a wonderful resource, and I cannot recommend it highly enough!

Peace,

Maddie