Our Services

Writing Hotline

Members of the OWU community may telephone (x3925) or drop in with specific questions about written English. We also receive hotline calls (740-368-3925) from businesses and organizations across the country.

Tutoring

During the first half (weeks 1 through 8) of each semester preference will be given to students who need to clear "U" notations from their records, whereas tutors will be available primarily for faculty referrals and self-referrals during the second half of each semester.

Removing the “U” Notation

Students may receive a "U" notation (unsatisfactory in writing) in any course if the instructor believes the student's writing skills need to be strengthened. Such students are required to report to the Center immediately at the beginning of the next semester.

Each student will be assigned to a professional tutor who will meet with him or her individually for one hour every week. Students will also devote at least another two hours weekly to writing essays for the Center. Usually tutors will help students work through the brainstorming—writing—revising stages of three or four short papers. As soon as competency has been achieved, the Registrar will be informed and the "U" notation will be erased from the student's transcript.

Normally students should succeed in removing the "U" notation during the first half of the semester (weeks 1 through 8) after it was received. Occasionally a student may need a full semester's work in the Center to remove the "U." Unless special permission to postpone has been granted, the Academic Status Committee will intervene if a student has not cleared the "U" in the semester after it was received.

“R” Courses

Faculty and students may consult about any stage of the writing process required for Ohio Wesleyan's program on Writing Across the Curriculum.

Class Visits

Professors may ask tutors to give mini-lessons (about 20 minutes), individually tailored to their classes, on any aspect of writing.

Articulation with the Freshman Writing Seminar (ENG 105)

Normally students experiencing difficulty with writing in freshman composition should sign up for weekly conferences with their own ENG 105 teachers. Exceptions may be made for learning disabled students and others needing immediate reinforcement of their writing skills. During the second half of the semester, ENG 105 students may seek help in the Center, just as all other drop-in students do, on a first-come, first-served basis. Telephoning for an appointment is recommended.

Referrals

Instructors and advisors may refer students for immediate tutoring—or students may sign up on their own initiative—when it appears that writing problems are interfering with success in course work. The Center will devote much of its tutoring time to working with such immediate referrals during the second half (weeks 8 through 14) of each semester.

LD Services

The Writing Center also serves as a resource for students with LD problems. We offer tutoring all semester for both self-referrals and faculty referrals. LD students can take exams at the Writing Center, in a quiet place, using a computer.

Library

The Writing Center Library contains an up-to-date collection of reference works, handbooks, journals and readers. We also have helpful handouts and sample models of resumes, cover letters, and personal statements for graduate and professional schools.

Outside Speakers

The Center sponsors talks by editors, lawyers, writers, administrators, and other experts addressing practical issues related to writing for the world of work.