Studio Guidelines

When to visit the Studio

  • You have no clue what to write or speak about.
  • You have some good ideas but want to bounce them off of someone else.
  • You know your paper or speech has "issues."
  • You are finished, but you think you need another opinion.
  • You are confused about punctuation, grammar, or pronunciation.
  • A teacher encourages you to make an appointment.
  • You would like guidance with research and citing sources.

How to make an appointment

We welcome walk-in appointments for 30- to 50-minute sessions. Consultations happen in the Studio, which can be found by turning to the left after entering the library.


What to bring

  • Questions
  • Ideas
  • Assignment sheet
  • Draft of your paper or speech (if you have one)
  • A pencil or pen
  • Sources (if you're writing research)
  • Any other materials that will help the consultant help you

What you will do

  • Talk with the consultant.
  • Read your paper aloud or listen as the consultant reads it aloud; practice your speech with the consultant as the audience.
  • Ask questions and respond to the consultant's questions and suggestions.
  • Learn to find and revise your own errors in your papers and oral presentations.

What the consultant will do

  • Ask questions.
  • Make suggestions.
  • Help you identify your strengths and weaknesses.
  • Help you see options for revision.

What the consultant will not do

  • Write your paper or speech for you.
  • Correct every mistake in your written work (NOTE: Editing is a highly technical skill. Consultants are not trained editors or proofreaders. They can help you find error patterns and teach you how to address them).
  • Let you drop off your paper or presentation and pick it up later.

Tips for a successful consultation

  • Come by and see us as soon as you get an assignment.
  • Come often.
  • Visit at every stage of the process.
  • Bring necessary materials.
  • Plan to spend 30–50 minutes with a peer consultant.
  • Be committed to your own progress and success.
  • Be nice to the consultants.

Please remember ...

  • Consultants work with peers on a first-come, first-serve basis.
  • Students should not expect to work with a consultant more than one session an evening to allow everyone opportunity to take advantage of the Studio's services.