Interested in being a Writing Fellow? Writing Fellows are recruited and hired toward the end of the fall semester. Training of new Writing Fellows takes place during the spring semester for the following academic year. Training is paid.
What are the requirements?
To be a writing fellow, you should:
- Be a strong writer
- Enjoy working with people
- Be responsible and reliable
- Be able to work at least 5 hours per week
- Be committed to helping others
Do I have to be an English major?
No. We encourage students from any major to become Writing Fellows. Take a look at our Meet the Fellows page to see the variety of majors currently represented in the Writing Center.
Do I need previous tutoring experience?
No. If we hire you, we will train you.
How do I apply?
Please prepare an application package with the following:
- Cover letter detailing why you would like to participate in the Writing Fellow program, what you expect to contribute to the Writing Center, and how you see participation in this program contributing to your academic and/or career goals.
- Your best, recent example of academic writing done for a Carthage class. Do not submit creative or reflective writing. Remove your name from the paper.
- The writing prompt (or short description of the assignment) your writing sample is responding to.
- Two recommendations. At least one must be from a current Carthage faculty member familiar with your writing. Recommenders should use this form. Recommendations are due Nov. 30th.
Submit the cover letter and sample essay with a prompt on this form no later than Nov. 16th. Your writing sample will be assessed by the Writing Center director and (anonymously) by three experienced Writing Fellows. This assessment is based on the Carthage College Writing Rubric.
Note: Though it is not required, you should consider taking part in a Writing Center appointment prior to your application. The experience of meeting with a Writing Fellow will provide an important perspective on what the Writing Center does.
Next:
Select candidates will be invited to participate in an interview with the Director of the Writing Center. Advanced fellows may also participate in the interview process.
What happens if I am hired?
Once you have been officially hired, you begin training. This requires attendance at a retreat in February and 2-3 training hours per week for most of the spring semester. Training includes reading, observing, and conducting tutoring sessions, keeping a journal of your observations, and meeting with the Director of the Writing Center. You will be paid for the time you spend training.