New Writing Center in Hazel 101 of Reeves Library Serves All Writers of Every Genre

Dr. Brittany Carlson and Sierra Pultman served up pizza and prose on Nov. 12 during a writers’ retreat at Westminster’s new Writing Center located in Hazel 101 of Reeves Library.

The retreat was one of a series of relaxed events at the Center, which now offers everything from proofreading essays to tightening up lab reports to brainstorming introductions for the next great American novel.

The new format expands the services of Westminster’s former Writing Lab.

“The Writing Center has been thoughtfully designed as a comprehensive resource for everyone on campus, including faculty and staff,” explained Carlson, Assistant Professor of English and Writing Center Director. “It is meant to be scholarly as well as fun.”

During the November writers’ retreat, students trickled in alone and in large groups. Some set up their laptops around tables, while others curled up in plush couches in quiet corners.

Freshmen Destiny Rosario and Paige Cruzan were among a group of friends gathered together at a large table. Both were return “customers” of the Center.

Cruzan said she previously needed creative ideas for beginning one of her papers, while Rosario sought technical assistance on a research paper. Both received help from Pultman, Professional Academic Advisor and Student Success Coach.

“She helped me properly cite my sources for an essay I wrote about sensory experiences and the mental health of athletes for my Academic Writing II course,” Rosario explained, emphatically nodding when asked if Pultman’s advice was helpful.

“I’m glad to see them here,” Pultman emphasized before joining the group. “We’ve really wanted to incentivize our students to feel comfortable getting more eyes on their papers.”

As additional students filed in, Carlson directed them to open seating and drew their attention to the fresh pizza stacked in boxes in the middle of the room. She then floated from one student to the next, quietly asking if they needed any help.

Carlson’s unobtrusive manner adds an easygoing element to the overall atmosphere of the Center, which is regularly open from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

The Center also regularly offers a Writers’ Workshop for students, faculty, and staff on Mondays at noon.

Meanwhile, Carlson encourages all writers, and those identifying as non-writers, to check out the many services now available at the Writing Center.

“Studies have shown that many top-performing students regularly visit writing centers, while others can benefit greatly by just stopping by when they run into difficulty,” Carlson reflects. “We are nice, friendly, and want to see everyone rock their next writing task.”

Types of Projects Supported by the Writing Center

For more information on the Writing Center, please contact [email protected]