Student Learning Center Home Page
Frequently Asked Questions: Student Guide
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Writing Tutoring
What does the writing program do?
The SLC writing tutoring program is designed to assist SUNY Brockport students
who wish to improve their overall writing and who have writing-related 
questions,
uncertainties, and/or difficulties. Generally students have at least a rough
draft of an assignment in hand when they sit down with a writing tutor. Tutors
offer advice and assistance with revising, reorganizing, and elaborating drafts
of papers, as well as with syntax, usage, mechanics, and documentation. Students
also come in to receive assistance with prewriting-related tasks such as brainstorming
ideas, outlining, and locating research information, while others come in to
receive help with developing writing skills in general.
What can a writing tutor do for me?
Writing tutors are not "quick fix" artists whose task is to put the finishing touches on written assignments. Tutoring is a collaborative exercise in which the students are assisted and, in the process, help themselves to learn. A tutor is a tool, not an answer key. Writing tutors work alongside students who come in for help, encouraging and questioning them in their writing. A tutor will not do students' work for them. Furthermore, writing tutors are not qualified to make comments on or decisions about subject matter--with the possible exception of English/literature. Content-related questions should be directed to a specific professor or a content tutor.
Who are the tutors?
All of the SLC writing tutors are undergraduate and graduate English majors who were selected based upon recommendations by Department of English faculty. Tutors are chosen based on academic excellence, writing proficiency, and a willingness to help others. Department of English graduate assistants also work as writing tutors. Upon being hired, writing tutors participate in a training seminar and, throughout the semester, are closely supervised.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Students wishing to work with a writing tutor need to stop by the SLC or call (585) 395-2293 to make an appointment. Writing tutors are available during fall and spring semesters only. The hours the writing tutors are available for appointments are listed below. It is always best to call well in advance of deadlines and due dates, especially during peak times in the semester. It is also best to call ahead if a student wishes to work with a particular tutor. Walk-ins are accepted, but there is no guarantee of tutor availability. Each appointment is scheduled for one hour. If necessary, more appointments can be made for future dates per each written assignment. For answers to any other questions about the SLC writing tutoring program, please contact SLC Secretary Diana Pask at (585) 395-2293.
Writing Skills Handouts
Handouts on a variety of writing skills topics are available courtesy of Purdue University Online Writing Lab (OWL):
Writing Tutoring Hours By Appointment:
Monday and Wednesday: 9am-5pm
Tuesday and Thursday: 9am-9pm
Friday: 9am-2pm
