Community Members FAQ

Who does the UWC serve?

We welcome undergraduates, graduates, post-graduates, faculty, staff members, and the Boone community.  We work with students and professionals from all areas of study, and our consultants can help at any stage of the writing process.

When is the University Writing Center open?

Our Spring 2017 hours are Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm and Friday 9am-1pm.

Is there a fee to use the UWC?

No.  The University Writing Center is a free resource.

Where is the UWC located?

We are in Suite 204 in the Belk Library and Information Commons on the campus of Appalachian State University.

How often can I come to the University Writing Center?

You are welcome to work with a consultant once a day for 45 minutes.  You may visit the center every day that we are open, and you can come an unlimited number of times during the semester, but you may not have multiple appointments in the same day.

What should I bring when I come to the UWC?

If possible, bring a copy of your writing and any requirements for it that you have.  Any research you might be using would be helpful, as well as any preliminary writing, including notes, preliminary thoughts, an outline of ideas, a first draft, or a polished later draft. We have several computers for use during sessions, but feel free to bring your personal laptop if you prefer.

What kinds of writing can someone bring to the UWC?

Consultants will work with any kind of writing—including personal writing (e.g., poetry and creative fiction) and business writing (e.g., resumes and graduate school applications).

Can I email my paper to the UWC or drop it off to be edited?

No. UWC consultants will work with you, not just your paper. Our goal is to aid in the process of self-discovery, self-reflection, and self-improvement for writers through conversation and collaboration. You must be willing to work one-to-one and allow for time to discuss your writing with a consultant.  

Who works in the UWC?

The UWC staff consists of graduate students, undergraduate students, faculty members, and nonfaculty professionals who are all trained to consult with you about writing and the writing process. Consultants are mostly from the English Department but may come from any department.

Do I have to make an appointment, or may I just drop in?

Making an appointment is recommended; the UWC takes appointments on the hour, but we are staffed to handle most walk-ins. Appointments are always given priority over walk-in sessions.

How long are sessions?

Forty-five minutes are allotted for each session, but sessions do not always take that long. Session lengths vary depending on a writer's individual needs. A consultant cannot guarantee that he or she can address an entire paper in 45 minutes, but a student may return to continue the session at a later date.

Can consultants help me use MS Word and other word processing software?

UWC consultants are not trained to handle software questions or teach you how to use common software. A consultant will usually be happy to assist you with basic questions if he/she feels comfortable doing so, but you should contact ASU's IT Support Services for computer and software assistance.