Our approach to writing and writing response emphasizes the use of writing to explore and develop ideas and the use of writing to communicate those ideas to readers. Writing Center consultants reflect to the writer their experience as readers of that writer's work. For example, consultants identify to the writer how they understand the central ideas of the written work, indicate any questions or confusions that arise as they read, share any associations they have with what they've read that the writer might explore. Consultants and students consider how changes in organization, style and mechanics can strengthen their work. Consultants offer students strategies for improving their writing based on their training and their own experience as writers.
Face-to-face Conferences
Face-to-face conferences are 25-minutes long, though students may sign up for two consecutive conferences when necessary (e.g., with papers that exceed 10 pages). Students can sign up for a maximum of two conferences per day.
Online Conferences
Students who are unable to visit the Writing Center or who are more comfortable contacting us online can send questions via email or texts via our online conference service. We strive to respond to your submission within 48 hours (not including weekends), but we can't make any promises.
Phone Conferences
We provide this service for students who cannot come in to the Writing Center but want some "real-time" interaction. To make an appointment, please use our online schedule and write "Phone Appointment" and your phone number in the text box. Then, email your paper to uwbwrite@uwb.edu at least 30 minutes before your appointment. We will have your paper available when we call you, though we will not have the opportunity to read it before your scheduled appointment. Your consultant will call you at your scheduled time.
Group Writing Conferences
Because of the power of group work to help students develop their ideas, UW Bothell faculty members frequently assign group projects. Writing consultants are available to meet with groups to address any of the writing issues that routinely arise—as well as some of the issues unique to collaborative work (e.g., editing multi-authored texts to create a coherent voice).