Like any art form, writing requires a lot of practice. Whether you write creatively, academically, or just because you’ve been assigned a paper in class, it’s definitely a skill. At James Madison University, the University Writing Center is an incredible resource for students, faculty, and staff to get extra support regarding their writing. Feeling the writer’s block? Not sure about rules on grammar and punctuation? Making an appointment at the UWC is quick, easy, and a valuable use of time. Check out the JMU writing center for your next project!
About the JMU Writing Center
The University Writing Center is one of JMU’s five Learning Centers, designed to provide additional learning support to whoever needs it. Located on the first floor of the Student Success Center, it’s a welcoming space for anyone looking to improve their writing skills. The mission of the University Writing Center is to empower “students, faculty, and staff to develop writing and critical thinking skills by providing personalized consultations, resources, and programs that strengthen writing across campus.” Basically, whoever you are and whatever you’re writing, you’re welcome here!
The values of the University Writing Center include personalized learning, meaning they’ll help customize the assistance they provide to accommodate your unique learning style. They are also an inclusive, safe, and comfortable space for people of all backgrounds to be treated respectfully and kindly. Don’t expect to show up and have someone else do the work for you; they’ll encourage and inspire critical thinking, evaluation, and expression of ideas, all while making meaningful connections and building relationships.
Services
The University Writing Center, or UWC, is home to a team of professional writing consultants who are ready and prepared to help you with any and all writing projects. They offer in-person and virtual sessions typically lasting around twenty-five or fifty minutes. They recommend making an appointment before you arrive, but they might see you as a walk-in, too.
Writing consultants may be undergraduate students, graduate students, or even faculty members. They’ll work with you one-on-one and offer group sessions for a more collaborative approach to your writing project. They’re also great for getting help on group writing projects, working to make your project a more seamless and cohesive piece.
Not sure if the UWC is the right solution for you? They can help you with writing-related challenges like overcoming writer’s block, brainstorming and identifying your topic, and understanding your audience. They’re experts in assisting writers in finding and developing a clear thesis and learning how to incorporate their sources effectively.
Once your piece has a firm structure, they can also help you:
- edit,
- improve grammar and punctuation,
- revise for coherence, and
- use MLA, APA, and other citation styles to cite your sources effectively.
You’ll feel impressed with how much your writing improves after just one visit, and you’ll likely find yourself returning for a little extra help again and again.
Specialty
Need help on your paper, like yesterday? The UWC has a huge online database of writing guides and handouts that you can reference 24/7 for guidance and support. They cover everything from organizing your writing process to defining and identifying different writing styles. Plus, they’ll help you clarify pesky grammar rules and citation requirements so you don’t lose credit where it matters most.
JMU Writing Center
What are you waiting for? Head to the JMU writing center website to get your appointment scheduled! You (and your GPA) will be grateful you took the time to get expert help with your project.
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