Resources
You will find that many of your professors adopt the position taken by David Barnhill (Religious Studies) in "Some Notes on Writing Papers." He writes:
When I teach a course, I do not simply teach the subject matter; much of my focus is on the more general issue of thinking and writing. By the end of the course, I hope--and expect--that you will be better writers and thinkers than you were at the outset.
I consider the essays you turn in to be imperfect works in progress rather than finished pieces. They are more like practice sessions to learn from than performances to be judged . . .
Because of this attitude toward papers, I comment on your papers as if they were early drafts of future papers. My comments are indications of errors and suggestions for improvements, and are as important in this course as the required readings and the lectures. I want--and expect--you to learn from them.
Your professors are here to help you learn. Most are practicing writers themselves --whether it be Laura O'Toole in Sociology/Anthropology, Ellen O'Brien in Theatre Studies, Tim Kircher in History, Kathy Tritschler in Sports Studies, Carolyn Beard Whitlow in English, Richie Zweigenhaft in Psychology, Robert Williams in Economics, or one of many others. They have much to share. They've been there. Don't hesitate to ask.
THE The Learning Commons
The ASC, under the leadership of Sue Keith, offers a variety of services that can benefit you. These include:
- one-on-one consultation designed to improve your papers and, more importantly, you as a writer
- workshops on topics such as time management and study skills
- peer tutors for specific courses
- a cross-curricular library of books on writing
- computer programs for individually paced learning in specific writing areas
- worksheets and guidance on specific grammatical problems
- special support programs for students with learning disabilities
- C.O.W.: the Community of Writers
You can find the ASC on the second floor of Hege Library. Stop by and check it out, or visit their Website: www.guilford.edu/asc. The ASC is there for you.
THE DIRECTOR OF WRITING
Have a writing-related problem or question that falls outside the jurisdiction of both your professor and the ASC? My name is Jeff Jeske and I'm in 115 Archdale. Come by any day or call (x2216) or e-mail (jjeske@guilford.edu).