EIU Writing Center

FAQ

What is the EIU Writing Center? 

At the Writing Center, students can develop as writers and thinkers. Our free service supports enrolled EIU students from all disciplines, majors, and academic backgrounds with any type of writing: lab reports, essays, discussion posts, scholarship essays, and more. We assist at any stage of the writing process, including talking through your assignment to help you come up with ideas to get started.  

Who are the consultants?  

As English graduate assistants, our trained consultants offer unique perspectives to their peers. We use long-studied techniques and proven practices to help writers grow. Dr. Terri Fredrick is the Writing Center director, and Dr. Jad Smith is the assistant director. 

How do I make an appointment? 

Students may schedule an appointment anytime here. *Please be sure to provide your full name and EIU e-mail. Once the request form is complete, a confirmation e-mail will be sent to the e-mail you provided. If you signed up for an online conference, see “How do online writing sessions work?” below. 

What are your hours? 

To view our latest hours, please visit the home page or visit us on Facebook. 

What takes place during a writing conference? 

When you book an appointment, you’ll be paired with a writing consultant. During the session, the consultant will not only talk with you to help you improve your paper but also help you further develop your writing skills. They will collaborate with you to help you discover and organize your ideas, support those ideas effectively, and revise and edit your work. 

How do online writing sessions work? 

We provide the same environment and format in our online sessions, with a little extra time built in to smooth out any technical challenges. Online sessions take place through video conference using Microsoft Teams.  

To save time during your conference, be sure to download Teams on your PC prior to the appointment and conduct any necessary video and audio checks. 

Once you’re ready to join your conference, simply click the “Join Teams meeting” button in your appointment confirmation e-mail.  

If you have questions about Teams setup or need assistance logging into your online session, please e-mail us at writingcenter@eiu.edu. 

How should I prepare for my writing conference? 

When you come for a conference, be sure to bring either your laptop or a paper copy of the following (also, please feel free to send these items in advance to writingcenter@eiu.edu): 

• The instructor's writing assignment or writing prompt 
• If applicable, a copy of your work so far, including notes or ideas if you’re just getting started 
• Questions 

What if I need to reschedule or cancel? 

Things happen. We get that! If you need to cancel, feel free to do so through your original appointment confirmation e-mail or by e-mailing us directly. To reschedule, simply fill out another appointment request online!  

Do you offer any services for faculty? 

Absolutely! Please see our Faculty Services page. 

Have additional questions? Call us at (217) 581-5929 or send an e-mail.   

Need to contact the directors? Feel free to e-mail Dr. Terri Fredrick or Dr. Jad Smith.