Frequently Asked Questions
Student FAQ’s
- Where is the Writing Center?
The Writing Center is located in the Center for Learning Enhancement (previously the business office) behind Main Hall.
- Do I need to make an appointment?
To ensure proper time for a tutoring session, an appointment will need to be made. If you just need a question answered, feel free to call or stop by for proper assistance.
- How long does a tutoring session last?
Tutoring sessions will last no longer than 50 minutes, depending on your needs. Smaller needs can take as little as 15 minutes. If it looks like a session will run over the allotted time, another appointment will need to be scheduled.
- What happens to the Tutor Session Review sheet?
The Tutor Session Review Sheet will be filed in your personal folder and an email will be sent to your professor letting him/her know that you visited the center.
- Can I just drop off my paper to be corrected and pick it up when you’re done?
No. Since the Writing Center is focused on tutoring the individual student, you must be present for the tutoring session in order to participate and learn.
- Will you edit or proofread my paper?
No. The Writing Center often gets confused with an editing service. Tutors will not proofread or edit any document. The Writing Center specializes in writing needs (grammar, sentence structure, format, citation, research, organization, etc.). We aim to teach valuable writing skills that can be applied to later works. Because of this, we feel that editing or proofreading is something that is done for you, not with you.
- To whom should I go if I have a complaint or a suggestion about the Writing Center?
For any complaints or suggestions, please contact the Writing Center Director, Sydney Davis at sdavis@salem.edu or 917-5381.
- Can I request a particular tutor?
Yes. You may work well with a particular tutor and may request working specifically with that tutor.
- What should I bring to my session?
Everything! Not really, but it helps. Bring a copy of your paper, the assignment given by your professor, a list of resources (for research) and any other materials you think might be helpful.
- Will visiting the Writing Center guarantee me a better grade?
Unfortunately, not. The Writing Center does not guarantee higher marks on written work. We cannot guarantee jobs for resume help or interviews by professionals. We can guarantee that your work will be better, clearer, and more precise.
- Why was nobody there when the Writing Center was open?
The Writing Center operates with one person per shift (approximately 2 hours). Because of this, copies or other errands are often needed and the tutor on duty is the one who has to handle the needs of the Center.
Faculty FAQ’s
- Can I require my entire class to use the Center?
Absolutely, but inform the Writing Center in advance so we can properly prepare.
- Can I suggest my students bring their papers for editing and/or proofreading?
No. The Writing Center works with the students on writing matters. Editing and proofreading is something that can be done without the Writing Center. Also, we don’t want to schedule appointments for editing or proofreading when others have larger writing needs.
- Can I arrange to have the Writing Center staff do workshops or presentations for my class on writing?
Yes. Just call the Center or email Sydney Davis at sdavis@salem.edu to schedule dates and times.
- Will I know if one of my students has been to the writing center?
It depends. If you have not referred a student, you can always call and ask if she has visited the Writing Center. If you have referred a student, you will automatically receive a copy of the Tutor Session Review Sheet.
- I like my students to follow a certain style for my class. May I send a handout of my requirements to the Writing Center?
Yes please! This makes it easier for staff to advise students on what should be included in their work.
- Who should I contact regarding any complaints or suggestions I have about the Writing Center?
Please contact the Writing Center Director, Sydney Davis, at sdavis@salem.edu or 917-5381.
- Why does the Writing Center need the referral sheet?
The referral sheet lets the tutor know who sent the student and to whom a copy of the tutoring session should be sent. Otherwise, if you referred a student, you will not receive a copy of the session review unless you call the Center.
