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Academic Support & Writing Centers

Writing Center FAQ

Where is the Writing Center? 

A: In room 110 of the LRC (library) in Snyder Building on the Albemarle campus. Occasionally Ms. Barrier and Mrs. Graham may hold WC hours in their personal offices. This will be noted on the door of room 110. 

Do I need an appointment?  

A: Yes and no. There are “drop-in” hours scheduled T/Th 10-12 and W 1-3. You can simply stop by without an appointment. However, appointments take priority. You may have to wait on another student if you do not have an appointment.  

Students can schedule an appointment by clicking here or emailing writingcenter@stanly.edu. 

Do I need to bring a draft of my writing assignment?  

A: Yes, whenever possible. It is easier to assess your writing if you already have something written, even if the assignment is not complete. You should also bring or be able to access the instructions for the assignment. If you have not started an assignment, we will be glad to help you generate ideas, but once you have written the assignment you may need to return another day to work on content, grammar, etc. 

How long is an appointment?  

A: Students should expect to spend 20-30 minutes per writing conference. You are welcome to stay longer if no other students are waiting for assistance.  

Can I send my paper through email and receive feedback?  

A: Yes. You can also request a Zoom meeting if you cannot come to the scheduled hours. Please allow 24 hours (at least) for us to receive, review, and comment on your paper sent by email. We try to respond to our emailed papers during writing center hours as well, and we do not respond to papers over the weekend. Since the schedule hours are T/W/Th, if your paper is due on a Thursday, you should get it to us by the Tuesday before it is due. 

Two instructors manage the SCC Writing Center—Ms. Barrier and Mrs. Graham. We have our own courses to teach and other duties outside of the WC, but we will get back to you as soon as we can!  

Emailed papers should include the instructor, class, and assignment requirements/instructions, and when you need a response. 

If I come to the Writing Center, will I make an A on my paper?  

A: The Writing Center instructors are not evaluating your paper for a grade, so it is impossible to tell how your classroom instructor will evaluate what you have written. If you come to the Writing Center, we will help you improve upon what you have. Individual course instructors grade differently, and assignments are variable. Sometimes students come to the WC with little written and the paper is due in just a few hours. Sometimes students come with a complete paper, but they did not follow assignment instructions. What type of help you need is on a case-by-case basis. The best way to improve writing is to accept that there is not a “fast track” to skillful writing. Proficient writing takes time, effort, and revision. 

What if I can’t come during any of the drop-in hours, but I need help in person?  

A: Send an email to either Taffy Graham: tgraham0552@stanly.edu or Lorri Barrier: lbarrier8948@stanly.edu to schedule an appointment outside of regular hours. Provide a few times you are available, and one of us will get back to you.