What is the Writing Center at CSUF? 

At the Writing Center, we believe in the value of writers talking to writers about writing. We focus on improving students’ overall writing abilities instead of simply editing their papers. Our staff consists of graduate and undergraduate students trained in writing and collaborative tutoring strategies to encourage active engagement with writing both inside and outside the classroom.

In twenty-five minute sessions, through active discussion and modeling, our tutors work with you to address the writing questions you have at any stage of the writing process. We also host workshops and table at campus events to help promote an environment that celebrates writing as it cultivates the growth and creativity of all writers.

Who can use the Writing Center? 

All current CSUF students and faculty may use the writing center for any part of their writing process. 

Where is the Writing Center located? 

The Writing Center is located on the first floor of Pollak Library North. To find us, walk past the research desk and look for our sign on the right near the corner. All appointments Monday-Thursday are in the Writing Center, and appointments on Friday-Sunday are currently on-line. 

How do I make an appointment at the Writing Center?

  1. Go to “TitanNet Student” through your CSUF Student portal.
    a. If prompted to log in, use your CSUF credentials
  2. Once you are on the welcome page, choose purple "Appointments" on the left bar
  3. Press the blue "Make Appointments" button on the top right.
  4. Choose "Tutoring" for the first dropdown menu. Choose "Writing Tutoring" for the second dropdown menu. Then select the date you want the appointment.
  5. Once you fill that out, you will then be able to see what timeslots are available. Be sure to select from the "University Writing Center" time slot options.
  6. After selecting a timeslot in the “Would you like to share anything else” box, be sure to number and include your class number and what you want to work on for the session (ex: ENGL 101, reviewing my thesis); press the blue schedule button at the bottom of the review page. You will then see a confirmation page, confirming your appointment.
  7. The Writing Center is open 7 days a week. Appointments on Monday through Thursday are in-person. Appointments Friday through Sunday are over Zoom. 

How do I attend my Virtual [Zoom] Writing Center appointment?

  1. Go to “TitanNet Student” through your CSUF Student portal.
    a. If prompted to log in, use your CSUF credentials.
  2. Once you are on the welcome page, choose the purple "Appointments" on the left bar.
  3. Under the “Upcoming” appointment tab, click on your appointment; it will be named “Writing Tutoring with [Tutor’s Name]” .
  4. On the appointment details page, scroll down until you find the Zoom link. This is usually found under “URL/Phone Number”.
  5. You can then copy and paste that link into your browser’s search bar to enter the Zoom session.
  6. Be sure to log into the Zoom session 10 minutes before your session’s start time to test your computer’s microphone, speakers, and camera. 

What do I bring into my Writing Center appointment?

  1. Something to take notes with.
  2. The prompt for the assignment that you’re working on.
  3. An idea of what you want to focus on during the session. While tutors will work on a variety of issues concerning your paper, they will not simply “correct” your paper, so it is best to have specific ideas of what you think may need work.
  4. What you have so far in your writing process. This could include anything from your general ideas to your latest draft.

What if I need to cancel an appointment?

If you’re unable to make it to an appointment, you can cancel through the scheduling website any time prior to your scheduled time without penalty. Click on your appointment in the “Upcoming Appointments” tab in Navigate360 and select the “Cancel Appointment” option in the bottom left corner. 

You will then be asked to give your reason for cancellation. Provide this information then select the blue “Mark As Canceled” box. 

Please know that the Writing Center has a large volume of students seeking help throughout the year. If you don’t cancel, we allow only a five-minute grace period before issuing a no-show cancellation. Likewise, if you are more than five minutes late, your appointment time will be given to another student. Two no-show cancellations will result in an inability to make appointments in advance. You may then only receive tutoring on a walk-in basis.

Does the Writing Center take walk-in appointments?

If you wish to meet with a tutor on a “walk-in” basis, please inform the tutor at the Writing Center front desk and write your name and CWID down in our sign-in book. If/when a tutor is available, the first student on the list will be called up. If you are not present when your name is called, you will lose your place and the next name will be called. We strongly suggest making an appointment ahead of time to ensure you can meet with a tutor. Space is limited and a walk- in does not guarantee that we will be able to help you.

Visiting the Writing Center for a class?

Your professor will provide instructions for how to submit proof of an appointment. After your visit, your tutor will complete an appointment summary which will be emailed to your student email within 48 hours of the appointment. The appointment summary will also be accessible through the “Reports” tab on your TitanNet Student Home page.

Can I visit the Writing Center every day?

You may schedule only one appointment a day, twice a week. All tutorials are thirty minute sessions. (If your visit is fulfilling a requirement for a class (such as Eng 101P), you will only receive credit by remaining the entire half hour).