Q: What is the MSU Writing Center?
A: The MSU Writing Center is a relaxed and supportive environment where you can bring any of your writing concerns. For example, our consultants have assisted with research papers, literary analyses, resumes, essays, statements of purpose, letters of application, creative writing, etc. Our consultants have extensive practice with many different writing styles.
Q: Why should I visit the MSU Writing Center?
A: It is helpful to have a focused audience to preview your writing. Receiving feedback on your writing is one of the critical aspects of revision, and discussion with MSU Writing Center consultants can help you develop and expand your writing abilities. Experienced fresh eyes and ears facilitate new ideas and new ways of thinking.
Q: Who visits the Writing Center?
A: Everyone! We work with a variety of students writing in a variety of genres ranging from freshman composition essays to graduate students completing thesis and dissertation projects. Even the best writers look for assistance because discussing your ideas with another person is a good way to make sense of your thoughts and because receiving feedback is an important part of the revision process.
Q: If I bring my paper to the Writing Center, will I make an “A”?
A: In the writing center, we focus more on trying to make you a better writer rather than focusing on individual grades. Writers are ultimately responsible for their own work; grades are something that you should discuss with your instructors.
Q: Does the Writing Center work with writing outside the English Department?
A: Yes! While we have consultants from a variety of academic backgrounds, we can’t guarantee that your consultant will have an academic background in your course subject. However, all of our consultants are trained to work with writing across disciplines, and we work with students from every college across campus.
Q: Can you help with formatting theses and dissertations for submission to the Library?
A: MSU has an Office of Thesis and Dissertation Format Review. They offer tutorials and workshops. We recommend you visit their website for assistance with thesis and dissertation formatting.
Q: Does this cost money? Academic assistance, such as tutoring, is expensive!
A: Our consulting appointments are absolutely FREE! Mississippi State University employs experienced Undergraduate and Graduate students to assist your writing needs. Students from all disciplines can visit the MSU Writing Center at no cost!
Q: Will you correct my grammar?
A: While we do not edit papers, we understand that grammar is a concern for many writers. In these situations, we will be happy to work with you on your self-editing skills by helping you identify grammatical errors you are likely to make in your own writing and providing you strategies for correction.
Q: Do I have to make an appointment?
A: We strongly recommend making an appointment. We do offer limited walk-in availability at our President’s Circle and Templeton locations, but the only way to guarantee you get a session is to schedule ahead of time. You can access the appointment scheduler by clicking here.
Q: Do I have to bring my paper with me?
A: If you have your paper, please bring it. If you do not, that is fine. We can help you brainstorm and get some ideas on paper.