Writing Partners

Why Request a Writing Partner?

Ask for a writing partner if you plan on using the Writing Center frequently over the course of the semester. This program allows you to meet weekly with the same tutor, rather than starting over with a different person each time you come to the Writing Center. It also allows you to be matched with a tutor who fits your specific situation. At your first meeting, you and your tutor will set some goals for the semester.

How can I sign up for the program and get a writing partner

You can find the application form below. Drop the completed form off a 302 Bailey/Howe Library. Alternatively, you can send email Sue Dinitz, the Writing Center Director.

• "Writing Partner Request" in the subject line
• Name and year in school
• Email address and phone number
• Brief description of the papers you are working on this semester and for what classes
• Description of what you want to work on in your sessions and of the types of support you're looking for
• All the times you're available to meet—we're open Mon-Thurs 10am–9pm, Fri 10am–5pm, Sun 6–9pm
• Any additional information, including if you'd like to be matched with a particular tutor

What should I bring to sessions with my partner?

Bring to your sessions all the documents related to your paper: the assignment and any rubrics or evaluation criteria; materials from which you're working, such as class notes, articles, and/or books; and anything you've written so far, including plans for the paper and drafts of sections or the entire piece.

Where should I meet my tutor?

For your first meeting, you'll meet at the Writing Center on the first floor of Bailey/ Howe Library (105), across from the Reference Desk. At that meeting, you and your tutor will decide whether to continue meeting in 105 Bailey Howe or at another location.

Can I meet with my partner (or another tutor) more than once a week?

To ensure that other students have access to the Writing Center, we don't schedule in advance more than one appointment per week per student. But you can call 656-4075 during the week to see if an appointment is available with another tutor.

Do I need to come every week? What if I don't have a paper due some weeks?

In many cases, you can still accomplish a lot even if you don't have a paper due that week. You and your tutor can work ahead—getting started, doing research, planning for upcoming papers. You can also work on more general writing issues, such as developing strategies for various parts of the writing process (e.g. writing introductions and conclusions, creating more coherent papers, revising drafts) or for various situations (e.g. writing essays exams or a resume). You can also work on improving your prose style and your editing skills.

What if I want to cancel an appointment?

Each week when you meet with your tutor, you'll look ahead and discuss whether it makes sense to meet the following week. If not, the tutor will cancel the appointment right then. If during the week you find that you need to cancel your appointment, just call 656–4075 up to 24 hours before your appointment time. This allows your slot to be opened for another student and ensures your tutor's time won't be wasted. If you don't cancel your appointment and don't show up, your student account may be charged $10.

What if my writing partner isn't working out or I no longer need to meet with my partner?

To change your partner, stop participating in the program, or for any other concerns, contact Sue Dinitz, sdinitz@uvm.edu, 656–7963.

Application Form

Writing Partner Application Form (.doc)

If you benefit from having the application in an alternate format, please email us.

Last modified January 13 2011 03:10 PM