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Frequently Asked Questions
Home > Academics > University Writing Center > FAQ
Where is the Writing Center located?
The University Writing Center is located in the basement of the Collins Learning Center next to the elevator (room 001). You may also contact us by:
Telephone: 214-333-5474 Fax: 214-333-6866 E-mail: writingcenter@dbu.edu
(Please call before faxing.)
When is the Writing Center open?
Our regular semester hours are Monday-Friday, 9:00A.M-8:00 P.M. We are also open on full service Saturdays. We are closed from 12:00-1:00 P.M. for lunch, and during chapel. Please contact the Writing Center for our hours during the summer and winter terms.
Do I need to make an appointment?
Appointments made within twenty-four hours in advance are given top priority. However, walk-ins will be accommodated if time permits. Please note: If you are more than ten minutes late for an appointment, you will forfeit the appointment time and must reschedule. There are some other things you might want to know before you come. Click here to find out.
Can I come to the Writing Center if I don't have a complete draft?
We love to work with students in all stages of the writing process. You are welcome to bring ideas, notes and scribbles to the Writing Center, as well as outlines and incomplete drafts. In fact, we prefer to work with you in the beginning stages of writing, rather than just look at your completed paper.
Will you write my paper for me?
No, Writing Center consultants will not write your paper for you.
Will you proofread or edit my paper?
The Writing Center staff wants all students to become confident with their own writing abilities; therefore, there are services not found in the UWC. The Writing Center is not an editing, correcting, or typing service. We are here to help you proofread, revise, and correct your own papers.
Can I drop my paper off and come back to pick it up later?
Students cannot drop off a paper to be corrected by a writing consultant. The author of the work must be present to discuss the methods needed to improve the piece and his or her overall writing ability.
I don't actually attend classes at the main campus; are there any services for me?
You may fax or e-mail your paper to the Writing Center for a long-distance consultation. More information is available on Before You Fax or E-mail. Click here to find out.
How long does a consultation take?
All UWC consultations are limited to thirty minutes. Your session may be shorter if you do not want to use the entire thirty minutes.
Will you check my grammar?
If you bring in a paper up to ten pages in length, we will only consider the first two pages for grammar and will consider all pages for appropriate content and structure if applicable within the thirty minute time constraint. If you bring in a paper longer than ten pages, we will only consider the first five pages for grammar and all pages for appropriate content and structure if applicable within the thirty minute time constraint.
What do I need to bring with me to the Writing Center?
Bring a hard copy of the assignment you are working on. If you have not started writing yet, bring your ideas, questions and research materials, or whatever you have gathered. Also bring the assignment sheet, syllabus, instructor's comments, or other material that gives specific information about the particular assignment you are working on.
Does the Writing Center have reference materials I can use?
The UWC collects and maintains materials to assist students in research and writing. These materials may be used in the Writing Center. They include:
- sample essays and research papers across disciplines.
- course syllabi.
- quick reference flyers covering different aspects of writing.
- writing format guides such as MLA, APA, and Turabian.
- Internet resources such as online writing centers.
- grammar, punctuation, and writing exercises.
- library of writing resources for student use.
Does the Writing Center have any information on formatting in different styles?
The Writing Center has a variety of flyers that include tips on formatting in APA, MLA, and Turabian. We also have Quick Reference Flyers on correct grammar usage, specific assignments, and literary analysis. Quick Reference Flyers are available directly outside the Writing Center and can be picked up at any time. They can also be accessed from the Quick Reference Flyer Menu.
Will you look at my resume?
Yes, we will be glad to assist you with your resume. We also have resources that can be used in the Writing Center to help you write your resume. However, our resume assistance is limited, and official course work will take precedence. Career Services may offer thorough assistance when preparing your resume.
Can I bring my creative writing to the Writing Center?
Yes, you may bring your creative writing to us; however, if it is not official course work, we must assist those bringing in official course work first.
Does the Writing Center tell my professor when I come for a consultation?
The Writing Center does not tell your professor you visited us, but we do ask that each time you come you fill out a visit record. We will not discuss you or your work with any other students or professors--each session is confidential. If you submit a formal, academic appeal, however, the appropriate dean or Vice President has the right to review your UWC records, if necessary.
I am not a DBU student. Is it all right if I use the Writing Center?
The Writing Center is available free of charge to all DBU undergraduate and graduate students.
How do I become a consultant at the Writing Center?
The Writing Center hires writing consultants as openings arise. To become a writing consultant, you must have the following qualifications:
- Completion of at least 30 credit hours with credit for ENGL 1301 and 1302; a major in English is not necessary; graduate students are encouraged to apply
- Overall GPA of 3.0 or higher
- English GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong leadership and negotiation abilities
- Strong Christian character
- Servant leadership qualities
For more information, or to acquire an application, go to Employment Opportunities, or e-mail the Writing Center at writingcenter@dbu.edu.
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