Anna Hudak, features editor

On the second floor of Lindell Library across from Academic Advising, the Writing Center is a hidden gem that offers a wide array of writing-related services. According to Inside Augsburg, “The Writing Center can help writers deal with writer’s block, audience awareness, argumentation, organization, grammar, research skills, the conventions of academic writing, English as a Foreign Language, and issues of clarity and style.” Students are welcome to bring their work to the Writing Center for assistance at any stage of the writing process like brainstorming ideas, formatting and revision.

The Writing Center is a resource that can be used by everyone. Christine Horner, Writing Center tutor, explained in an interview with the Echo that the Writing Center is “an important resource for all students, not just students who ‘need help’ or who are struggling in a class; think of us as a second set of eyes to look at your writing assignment, resume, or job application and give our feedback on its strengths and potential areas of improvement.” Additionally, the Writing Center is welcoming of students with learning disabilities and English Language Learners. 

The tutors of the Writing Center are Augsburg students so they understand how stressful academic writing can be and are eager to help. To reduce this stress, Writing Center staff are dedicated to maintaining an environment where students feel comfortable in developing their writing skills. Horner states “the Writing Center is a judgment-free zone. We will never criticize you or put you down for your writing. We’re here to help you, not hurt you.” Corvus Eckdahl, Writing Center tutor, reaffirms this sentiment, saying “the Writing Center is a confidential place, meaning that we will never share the student’s paper or information with anyone else.” 

The Writing Center makes intentional efforts to be as accommodating to the busy schedules of students as possible through drop-in appointments from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday and 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Depending on the stage of your writing process, it is suggested to bring your draft, assignment directions and some written-down questions for a drop-in appointment. Alternatively, students can schedule appointments online Sunday through Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Eckdahl explains, “every student gets a 30-minute session every day the Writing Center is open. You can come as many times a week as you need!”

The significance of writing cannot be understated. Developing your writing skills can help you improve your communication and critical thinking skills, advance in your career and express yourself. The Writing Center offers the opportunity for all students to receive feedback, develop their writing skills, and enjoy the process of writing. According to Inside Augsburg, “The Writing Center’s goal is to produce better writers who will compose well-developed, well-structured, and coherent papers. By these means, we build positive tutor-writer relationships. We look forward to seeing you!”