The Writing Center at UNL is staffed by undergraduate and graduate students who think of themselves as writers and who are committed to teaching and talking well about writing with other writers. Nearly all of our consultants are taking or have taken ENGL 380/880: Writing Center Theory, Practice, and Research. Our staff is committed to ongoing education, and all of our staff members participate in regular staff development meetings.
The Writing Center offers free one-on-one consulting to all members of the UNL community. Writing Center consultants work with undergraduate and graduate students on a wide variety of academic and creative projects as well as on resumes, cover letters, application essays for program or graduate school admissions. In addition to supporting faculty writing for publication, we work with instructors on writing assignment design. We also work with faculty to design Writing Center workshops tailored to meet the needs of particular courses where writing is being taught in the disciplines. We work with staff on both professional and personal writing projects.
Although there are plenty of myths about solitary writers closeting themselves away to write, the reality is that writing is a social act and writers need not only readers of their finished work, but other writers who will read and talk about works in progress. It makes sense to us to seek out writers who are experienced and adept at giving meaningful and productive feedback and interested in what other writers have to say. When we encounter these kinds of writers, we hire them to work in the Writing Center. Who needs the Writing Center? Honestly, we can't think of anyone who writes, seriously or for fun, who wouldn't benefit from visiting us.
In addition to providing help throughout all stages of writing, the Writing Center also accountability appointments, which are designed to help you set aside time dedicated to writing. The consultant will begin by asking what your writing goals are. What do you want to accomplish during the 25/50 minutes of your appointment? Do you want to chat about your progress along the way, just talk when a question comes up, or simply write quietly with someone next to you? All of these are viable options! Whatever you choose, the consultant will sit by you and work on something of their own during the appointment time, in solidarity with you. For more information about accountability appointments, and how to make one, see this link.
Appointments can be in person or online (depending on availability). The Writing Center is located on the first floor of Andrews Hall, room 102.