Writing Assistance

Writing Center

The mission of the Writing Center is to support the Kettering community in all facets of written communication in order to contribute to excellence in teaching, research, and student services.

Writing assistance for students

Writing consultations are conducted by professional or peer tutors who work together with the student to improve the quality of the student’s writing.

Underlying Philosophy

• The role of the writing consultant is to help students become stronger learners by helping them understand how to improve their writing. As such, writing consultants do not “fix” papers for students: they guide the students to improve their own work.
• The focus of the writing session is on giving students tools they can apply to the rest of the paper, not on completing the entire paper. As such, each session will focus on only a few issues or on one short segment of the paper.
• Writing is a process; therefore, students may require more than one visit in order to improve the paper.

How to Arrange a Writing Consultation

• Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. The tutoring hours of the writing consultant and peer tutors are listed below 
• Appointments can be made with the writing consultant by calling (810) 762-9775.
• Appointments can be scheduled for 30 minutes or 45 minutes depending on the needs of the student.
• Students may schedule a follow-up appointment after the completion of the current session.

What to Bring to a Writing Consultation

• A copy of the writing assignment 
•  A draft of the paper in progress (Brainstorming sessions do not require a draft.)

Editing for faculty and staff

Editing is an independent review of a written document with a focus on clarity, format, grammar, and mechanics. All editing changes are provided in the form of electronic comments and suggestions that can be either accepted or rejected by the author. While the editor may suggest clarifying certain sections of the document, the content of the document is the sole responsibility of the author. Editing services are provided by professional staff members and are free to Kettering faculty.

Documents that can be edited

• Grant and research proposal
• Articles
• Reports
• Syllabi
• Administrative documents

How the process works

• The document is submitted electronically, in MS Word, to the Writing Center Coordinator.
• The Writing Center Coordinator will acknowledge receipt and identify the turnaround time. 
• If the Writing Center is unable to complete the service due to time constraints, alternative editing options will be identified (if available).
• The completed document will be e-mailed back with the corrections identified through the “Track Changes” function.

Consulting for faculty and staff

Consultations are available on topics related to the incorporation of writing into any course/discipline: 

• Reviewing syllabi for clarity and organization.
• Developing writing assignments for the course.
• Assessing the strength of existing writing assignments.
• Designing assignment assessment rubrics and timelines.
• Consulting about student writing needs and how to address them within the course.

Consulting services are offered by appointment only. To make an appointment, contact