I need help!
1. I feel nervous about writing assignments.
Schedule a time to come talk to me or make an appointment with the Writer's Workshop in the UGL. The Writer's Workshop consultants will meet with you at any stage of a writing project and throughout a project - it is an amazing resource! I am also happy to meet with you to read drafts, brainstorm, or talk through any aspect of the writing process with which you may be struggling.
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One of the best ways to get better at writing is to solicit outside feedback and revise, revise, revise! Even if you don't want to come talk to me or the workshop, have your peers read drafts of your work.
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Schedule an appointment with the Writer's Workshop.
Schedule an appointment with me.
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Additionally, here are some resources to get you started:
How to write a thesis statement
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Writer’s Workshop Writing Tips
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Here is a powerpoint that I wrote for a previous class on basic writing do's and don'ts
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2. I need help with research and citation.
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Here are some resources to get you started.
Communications Library Page
The Comm librarians LOVE helping students. If you are ever in need of assistance finding sources, please stop by and ask them.
Google is great for starting your research journey, but you need to be strategic about it. Research is not just looking up a set of keywords and choosing the first link you find. The following links are helpful for getting the most out of Google and other internet sources:
Tips for Google Scholar Part 1
Tips for Google Scholar Part 2
How to Cite Social Media Using MLA and APA
Especially useful when writing about fans and audiences -- how do you cite Tweets? Facebook Posts? Instagram feeds?
Purdue Online Writing Lab
My favorite resource for checking MLA/Chicago/APA citation styles and for explanations of more general research and citation best practice.
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3. I need an extension/make-up exam.
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I will consider granting extensions, but you need to set up a time to meet with me in advance of the deadline. I will not consider extensions e-mailed to me within 48 hours of the deadline unless you have an emergency.
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I accept late work, but will take 10% off of your grade for each day the assignment is late.
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4. I'm struggling with a major school/life/family/work issue.
First, please let me know if that you are struggling. Even if you don't feel comfortable coming to me with specifics, at least let me know if something is going on that is or will affect your ability to keep up with the class. I am more than happy to work with you on a plan for you to keep up with the class and to direct you toward resources that can help.
Every semester, a student will let me know after grades are due that they were dealing with some major issue during the semester -- once it's too late for me to help. Please let me know when it's still possible for me to offer assistance.
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Second, we have many counseling services on campus that are included in your tuition/fees. Take advantage!
McKinley Mental Health
Counseling Center
Women's Resource Center Support Services
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Third, contact the Office of the Dean of Students for help navigating University resources and for help managing any crisis that may affect your coursework including, but not limited to housing issues, food assistance, registration, extended illness, and any form of discrimination.
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