Q: I’m not an English major, can I still apply?
Yes! Consultants come from many different disciplines and programs. We see writers from many majors and minors working on all kinds of documents – papers, applications, creative work, and posters, to name a few. It is important we have a diverse range of tutors from various backgrounds in order to meet the needs of all students.
Q: How much are consultants paid?
Undergraduate consultants are paid $15.25/hour; graduate consultants are paid $15.50/hour.
Q: What’s the schedule like and how flexible is the work week?
We’re typically open Mon-Wed 10am-8pm, Thurs-Fri 10am-3pm, and Sun 3pm-5pm. Consultants usually work anywhere from 2-10 hours/week, and we work with you to plan around your class schedule. The schedule is set at the beginning of each semester, and is the same every week. We create a separate schedule during finals week to accommodate for final exams and end of the semester projects.
Q: What should I use as a writing sample?
The writing sample should be a college-level project you completed for an academic course, campus event, or extracurricular activity. It does not need to be a research paper. We welcome multimedia samples as well, such as PowerPoints. You may submit writing you’ve done at another college or university. Overall, your writing sample should show your ability to engage with a topic and sustain an argument.
Q: What should I include in the statement of why I want to be a consultant?
This is your chance to tell us more about yourself. What excites you about this kind of work? What ideas do you want to contribute to the work we do? Have you ever visited the UWC as a writer? Think of this document like the cover letter to your application packet—what do you want us to know about you and your interest in writing?
Q: Can I receive feedback on my application materials before I submit them?
Yes! All applicants are encouraged to make an appointment at the UWC to work with a consultant on your application packet.
Q: What will be expected of me if I’m hired?
First, you’ll enroll in a 4-credit course during the fall semester (ENGL 454/554 – Writing Centers: Theory and Practice). In the course, you’ll learn about the field of writing center studies and best practices for our one-to-one sessions. You’ll also attend staff meetings and contribute your ideas to the work we do. You may also be asked to visit classes to explain our resources to other students and help with in-class activities, such as peer reviews and writing workshops. Our goal in the UWC is to think about the ways writing works both in and beyond the classroom at SU.
