For our peer writing tutor class, Writing, Rhetoric, and Discourse 395, Valerie M. and I focused on the transferable skills that are learned through Writing Center work. Reflecting upon the skills gained here at the Writing Center and from the WRD 395 class, I have realized how excited I am for my future career.
I am currently studying Secondary-Education with a focus in English. With my future as an educator on the horizon, I have found that through working at the Writing Center, I will further develop my field experience, writing pedagogy and theory, and my overall confidence.
Field Experience
One unforgettable experience with Writing Center work is being able to work with writers on how to aid them in a 1:1 fashion in their writing process. In addition to my work at the Writing Center I experience unique opportunities that relate to the classroom, such as being a part of a visit to a local high school! At DePaul, Education majors do not start student teaching or focusing on their field experience until Junior or Senior year of undergrad. By working at the Writing Center, I can learn with writers in practices that are not rooted in the hypothetical as to what “could” happen.
Writing Pedagogy and Theory
Another transferable skill that I have gained through working at the Writing Center is knowledge of writing pedagogy and theory. Knowledge of the pedagogical discussions is critical to be able to teach others how to write effectively. Having the skillset and knowledge of writing pedagogy and theory is essential in my development as a writer, but also as a future educator. For example, through Writing Center work, Bean’s Hierarchy of Needs is essential to the framework of our feedback. Addressing the needs of my future students’ work through this lens is critical because it will allow for meaningful, transferable feedback. In addition, another critical component of writing pedagogy and theory is working within what Vygotsky calls the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD). Working with writers now, but also with my future students within their ZPD is essential as it motivates and encourages the individual to grow and learn with their work.
Confidence in Writing and Beyond
The most important skill that I have developed through my work at the Writing Center is confidence in my writing and consequently my work as a tutor. Being a tutor has built my confidence in a leadership position. I now feel empowered by what I write, whether it’s in an academic or personal setting. With this newfound confidence, I am able to take risks in my writing and life.
Overall, there is a myriad of transferable skills from Writing Center work. I am excited to see what the future has in store, as I continue to develop these skills along with others.