Applications are open for the 2024 cohort!

This application is for admission to the GS300 Peer Tutoring Theory (Half-Block 2025) and the 395 Practicum (Spring 2025 extended adjunct). You must complete both courses (see descriptions below) to be hired into a consultant position at the Writing Center for Fall 2024. Please see the FAQ below for more on how the courses will be offered this year. Applications due November 1, 2024

To apply, submit the online application form, which requires that you:

1. Visit the Writing Center for an appointment with one of our peer consultants (so you can see what we do firsthand)
2. Complete the online application form
3. Upload an updated resume
4. Upload a cover letter** that addresses why you want to work for the Writing Center, your qualifications, and your ability to complete all training and job duties
5. Submit professor/academic recommendations (link provided after completing the online application)

**If you are unfamiliar with the writing conventions of a resume and cover letter, please consider visiting Career Services or making an appointment with the Writing Center to go over your materials.

We look for students who can:

• Communicate well and listen actively
• Demonstrate familiarity with writing across the curriculum
• Explain the basic rules of standard written English
• Be helpful and friendly to all writers

As a peer consultant at the Ruth Barton Writing Center, you commit to:

• Working one-to-one with individual students on their writing processes
• Using effective and ethical strategies for helping students find the strengths and weaknesses of a piece of writing
• Promoting writerly confidence and self-efficacy
• Referring students to additional online or on-campus resources (e.g., citation guides, library staff, wellness staff)
• Keeping accurate records of all writing center appointments
• Participating in professional development, including the theory and practicum courses and twice-blockly lunches after completion of initial training

Potential additional opportunities through the Writing Center:

• FYE Writing Fellows: dedicated position linked to FYE courses that provide academic support and mentoring, one-to-one tutorials, and workshops
• Regional and national conferences: research and present on topics in writing center work that are interesting and meaningful to you
• Resource development: workshops, handouts, and other resources to assist student writers
• Mentoring: one-to-one meetings with professional staff to address your personal, academic, and professional goals.

Not sure? Hear from our former consultants!

“There is so much to love about working at the Writing Center. Colleagues are kind and outspoken, our bosses are great, and I never felt stressed out by the job. Perhaps the best thing was working with other writers and becoming a better writer as a result. Developing those skills for interaction were crucial for me.” – Alex Weiss, ‘24 

“I enjoy working with students from different academic disciplines and learning about the topics students write about. It's also very fulfilling when students gain tools and skills that help them grow as a writer, leaving a session feeling more confident in themselves and their writing abilities.” – Diana Buda, ‘24

"The Writing Center is a unique place that I am lucky to have considered one of my 'homes' on campus. It is a supportive and energizing community that I hope even more students become a part of in future years. I will miss having the chance to sit down with peers and dissect writing assignments, learning small things about themselves and their writing in the process. I will particularly miss the sessions when students left the writing center with newfound confidence in their ability to tackle a paper and step into their own as writers; it is unbeatable." - India Hilty '20

"This job (community?) is one of my favorite parts of my CC experience. Between the things I've learned from clients, the time I've spent goofing around on the 2nd floor (only after 10pm shifts of course!), and the friends I've made in these environments, the WC has shaped the last two years of my college trajectory more than I could have expected when I applied." - Wayan Buschman '20

"My time with the Writing Center has been incredible. Ever since my first year at CC, I have always wanted to be a Writing Center consultant; they help students maintain their voice in writing while guiding them with tools for growth in their learning. I also really appreciate the supportive and kind environment at the Writing Center, and I will miss you all!" - Asha Rudrabhatla '20 

Peer Tutoring in Writing Courses

GS300: Theory and Practice of Peer Tutoring

This course has two purposes: (1) to delve into the complex processes involved in writing and talking about writing; and (2) to prepare students to work as writing consultants in the Colorado College Writing Center. Key course themes include the theory and practice of writing, the theory and practice of tutoring, critical thinking, self-awareness, and team-building. Students will have the opportunity to discuss and apply theories to specific tutoring situations, role play, solve problems in groups, and practice tutoring. Interested students must apply during second block for participation in the class. The course is held annually during half block. ½ unit; Pass/Fail only; COI required.

GS395: Peer Tutoring Practicum

Building on GS 300: Theory and Practice of Peer Tutoring, the practicum serves as a structured apprenticeship through which tutors can apply their theoretical knowledge to practical situations. The course includes collaboration with experienced tutors, practice tutoring, and conversations with experienced consultants and campus partners. This course requires 30 hours of observations, reflections, and a consultant portfolio, as well as course meetings on the first three Wednesdays of blocks 5-8 from 3:30-5:00. Successful completion is mandatory for students who wish to become Writing Center consultants. ½ unit; Pass/Fail only; GS 300 (prerequisite). *** While this practicum is unpaid, it nets you an open block at CC, monetarily valued at $7201.00***

Contact Chris Schacht for more information.

FAQs