Reflections from a Graduating Tutor

“My time at the writing center has really shaped how I view myself as a writer, and writing in general. Everyone needs to learn how to write well–it doesn’t matter if you’re going into business, science, literature, or something else, being able to clearly express your thoughts to others is a necessity in every field. I came to realize this after encountering numerous students who would, after reading through a paper with me, shrug and say something like, “I’m going into _______ field, so I won’t need writing after this divisional English/First Year Seminar is over.” I wonder where this rumor, that writing is only needed as a correlate to studies that involve reading literature, began? Resumes, job applications, and company memos all require writing, as do scientific research papers. One of the reasons why I love writing is because it is such a flexible skill–you can literally use it for anything. As my senior year comes to a close, I cherish my time tutoring in the writing center because it taught me how valuable writing can be, and how important it is to write well, no matter where you are going in life. Although I am an English major, I am most likely not going to pursue any higher degrees in English studies. However, I know that whatever my future brings, being able to put pen to paper (or fingers to laptop keys) and write with eloquence and clarity will help me along the way.” -Catherine