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FAQs

Where is the Writing Center and what are the hours? 

The NSU Writing Center is located on the first floor of Lyman Beecher Brooks Library.

Fall/Spring Hours
Monday - Thursday 9:00AM - 7:00PM
Friday 9:00AM - 5:00PM

Summer Hours
​Monday - Friday 9:00AM - 5:00PM

Our second location, Writing Center-West, is located in Madison 109. Hours: Monday-Thursday 9:00AM-6:00PM
 

Do I need to make an appointment?

No. Walk-ins are always welcome; however, those who have scheduled appointments will be served first. Making an appointment guarantees you time with a professional consultant. You can schedule appointments in person, through WCONLINE at nsu.mywconline.net, or call (757) 823-2271. ​

How long are sessions?

Sessions usually range from 30 to 60 minutes. If you still have concerns, you may schedule additional appointments.

What should I bring to my writing consultation?

You do not have to have any writing completed to make use of the Writing Center. However, it is very useful to bring a copy of your assignment and/or rubric as well as any drafting, notes, outlining, or brainstorming to the session. You may bring you laptop and/or printed copy of your writing.

What happens during a consultation?

You and the consultant will discuss your project requirements, your goals for the assignment, and whatever writing you bring. You will then discuss your areas of concern, and together, you’ll develop the best strategies for the project.

Can I request a particular writing consultant?

When scheduling appointments, you have the option of choosing any writing consultant. You will see a list of consultants who are available. All our professional consultants are trained to help you with any of your writing needs or concerns.

can i just email my paper to the writing center for a consultant to edit?

Writing Consultants will not simply edit or proofread students’ papers but assist students in developing better writing skills. However, you can send papers without being present in the tutoring session, but consultants will only identify patterns of errors and refer you to resources that will help you correct those patterns of errors. If you prefer line-by-line editing with the consultant, then you must be present in the tutoring session.

Either option you choose, you will need to make an appointment and/or register an account in WCONLINE with the Writing Center. You can attach your paper when you make the appointment. Click here for more information.

Can I bring in other class-related work? 

Yes. Consultants work with students on projects that range from assigned essays, academic research papers, creative writing, and business writing to resumes, job applications, graduate school or grant applications, personal statements, and more. If it’s writing-related, bring it in.

should I have any of my paper written to meet with a consultant?

Not necessarily. Consultants in the Writing Center work with writing at any stage. If you need help brainstorming a topic, forming an outline, organizing a draft, or polishing a final copy, you can always make an appointment with us.

do you offer workshops and how do I attend one?

Yes, faculty, staff, and students can schedule a workshop during class time and/or consultation sessions. Click here for the list of topics offered.

Do I need to bring anything to the workshop?

No, but you can bring any writing that you have started or are currently working on that is related to the workshop topic. Time is built in for interactive exercises and feedback.

I’d like for all my students to visit the Writing Center. Can I require my classes to use the NSU Writing Center?

Absolutely! The NSU Writing Center boasts a classroom space that can accommodate up to 26 students. We can facilitate workshops online via Zoom, in our classroom, or your classroom. Please call or email us to schedule your class.