Interested in becoming a writing tutor? There are a number of ways to get involved. Click On the questions below to get started.
What are the benefits of working in the writing center?
Working in the Writing Center provides an opportunity for professional development in one-on-one tutoring, small group instruction, and mentorship. It offers practical experience and career training for aspiring educators, as qualified tutors may serve as classroom assistants in developmental writing courses. Writing Center tutors also better understand processes of composition. This increased awareness allows tutors not only to help others effectively, but also to improve their own writing.
In addition to these benefits, the Writing Center offers the opportunity to join a dynamic community of students, faculty, and community members who regularly engage in productive conversation and collaboration. Former Writing Center tutors have gone on to graduate school, to become successful high school and community college teachers, reporters, writers, and editors.
Who may apply to work in the writing center?
Any CSUF undergraduate who has attained junior standing and any CSUF graduate student may apply. We accept applications from all majors, so long as the minimum qualifications have been met. We hire for the full academic year (both Fall and Spring), and often have employment opportunities during the summer as well.
All applicants should have excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to relate well to others within an academic environment, a willingness to learn, and the ability to assist students in the writing process. All successful applicants agree to work under the supervision of the Writing Center Director, the Writing Center Supervisor, and, if applicable, a faculty member teaching a developmental English course.
What are the positions and required qualifications?
We have two available positions: Supplemental Instruction Assistants (SIAs) and Instructional Student Assistant (ISA)
1. Supplemental Instruction Assistants (SIA)
*Note: Students will need to start off as a SIA before becoming a tutor/ISA unless they have prior experience*
SIAs:
Learn about different tutoring methods
Conduct discussions based on readings
Facilitate workshops for students
Almost all work contained within class time although few exceptions (such as workshops)
How do I qualify to be an ISA?
i. Must have Junior/Senior/Graduate student status at CSUF in any discipline of study
ii. Students will enroll in ENGL 402: Theories of Response to Written Composition. On the first day of class, they will be given instructions on what to turn in for an application. However, for an early head start, students can check below for more information in the “Application Materials” section.
After students finish the class with a B or higher, they are qualified to become a tutor and are able to work the following semester.
2. Tutors/Instructional Student Assistants (ISA)
Will collaborate with students in the writing process, including, but not limited to:
- Writing development
- Organization
- Argument
- Evidence
ISAs are assigned to sections of English 101P and carry out duties in direct instructional-support capacity in classroom. They are under the direct supervision of the course and the i ndirect supervision of appropriate Writing Center staff
How do I qualify to be a Tutor?
i. Must have Junior/Senior/Graduate student status at CSUF in any discipline of study
ii. Must have successfully completed ENGL 402/402S, Theories of Response to Written Communication with a grade of B or better, as minimum qualification for employment, or have equivalent academic or professional experience.
