Working to empower students, faculty and staff in their writing, the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Writing Center offers free tutoring services that enables any writer to develop concrete skills and build confidence. Whether an appointment is online or in-person, trained tutors work one-on-one with clients to address areas of concern in their writing, then generate and implement strategies that clients can carry with them to become stronger and more confident writers in their academic and professional careers.
Located on the fourth floor of Kuykendall Hall in room 411, the Writing Center assists with a variety of subjects and writing levels, from academic essays, STEM lab reports, personal statements and everything in between. Additionally, tutors can break down the writing process for clients, giving them tips on pre-writing steps such as brainstorming and outlining, as well as structuring and formatting written works.
Misconceptions about the Writing Center
For some students who are fairly confident in their writing, they may not see the benefits of meeting with a Writing Center tutor.
Everyone can improve their writing ability, and the Writing Center can help that growth.
—Anna Kalabuhova
“The most common false belief about the Writing Center is that it’s a place for ‘bad’ writers. That’s not the case,“ said Anna Kalabuhova, a graduate student tutoring in the Writing Center. “The Writing Center supports those who feel extremely confident in their abilities, as well as those who feel like writing is an impossible challenge. Everyone can improve their writing ability, and the Writing Center can help that growth.”
“There’s a misconception that writing is a solitary activity. It’s actually not—and it’s a lot better when you bring people in,” added Writing Center Director Isaac K. Wang. “Sitting down and having a conversation with someone (a tutor) who is themselves a writer and is trained to give feedback is one of the best ways to take the pain out of writing and grow as a writer.”
Setting up an appointment
Clients can book an appointment online or come in person for a walk-in appointment, which are available depending on how busy the Writing Center is. Students are also welcome to come hang out and study in the lounge area. Additionally, faculty and staff can schedule workshops and class visits from the Writing Center tutors for their classes.
The Writing Center is open Mondays to Wednesdays, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Thursdays, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.; and Fridays, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
For more information, visit the Writing Center website or contact tutors@hawaii.edu.
