Writing Center Internship (ENGL388W & SPAN388W)
All undergraduates who want to become tutors in the Writing Center must apply to and complete ENGL 388W or SPAN388W, a Writing Center internship course geared toward training new tutors. Interns attend a weekly class and tutor six hours each week in the Writing Center.
Earn four hours of upper-level elective credit by participating in an internship where you will
- enhance your own writing, grammar, and interpersonal communication skills through training and experience
- read, discuss, and write about the writing process and tutoring
- explore tutoring techniques through a variety of activities
- tutor students in the Writing Center to help them improve their writing
This internship offers you an opportunity to increase your knowledge about writing and become a better writer, as well as the satisfaction of helping others improve their writing.
Students in ALL majors are invited to apply. To qualify, you should
- enjoy working with and helping other people
- possess good written and oral communication skills
- have good academic standing
You can apply by submitting the appropriate internship application form (scroll down for ENGL388W and SPAN388W forms) and required materials. If you have questions or would like more information, please call (301) 405-3785, email us at writadmin@umd.edu, or stop by the Writing Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work for the Writing Center?
YES! Well, as an undergrad you have to apply first and complete English 388W: The Writing Center Internship. After you’ve finished the course and administration has given the go ahead, then you may be selected as a paid tutor.
Who should apply?
You should apply! We welcome undergrads with interest and experience in all disciplines, languages, and cultures. What’s that? The little nagging voice in your head telling you you aren’t a writing expert? Well, tell that little voice it doesn’t matter as long as you are a competent writer and have great people skills, communication skills, and study habits. We’ll help you become a better writer and tutor along the way.
What is the Writing Center Internship, ENGL 388W?
Tutoring boot camp. Just kidding. This internship will teach you how to become a tutor! In class, you’ll learn about the theory, practice, pedagogy, and history of writing centers. You’ll also spend some time each week observing tutoring sessions and eventually conducting tutoring sessions in the Writing Center. You can find out more about the class and the internship on the English homepage under “Academics.” Or just google “UMD Writing Center.”
If I am a grad student, do I need to enroll in the Writing Center Internship, ENGL 388W?
Nope! We accept applications from grad students throughout the year. Go ahead and apply if you have tutoring or teaching experience. Email a cover letter and your resume or CV to writadmin@umd.edu.
When do I apply?
Right now! We accept applications on a rolling basis for the fall and spring semesters. If the class is full or it’s after the drop/add period, you can ask to be considered for the following semester. The sooner you can apply, the better.
Where and how do I apply?
You can apply by submitting the internship application form and all other necessary materials online.
What will be considered a successful application?
Make sure you include a thoughtful one-page statement about why you’re applying, some writing samples, and references with current contact info—include phone numbers AND email addresses. Triple edit and let your references know they’re your references!
Who counts as a reference?
Aim for academic references, like teachers, who know you well and can speak to your performance as a student, and as someone who can work one-on-one with other students. You can also ask supervisors on campus or other recent managers.
When will I hear back about my application?
It depends on how long it takes to get in touch with your references. After that happens, we’ll make a decision based on the quality of your application. We might have some additional questions and want to schedule an interview, so stay tuned. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible via email.
What will I gain from this experience?
You’ll become a part of a unique community of people interested in helping others. You’ll learn a lot about writing, communicating, and tutoring.. You’ll have opportunities to do academic research and present at professional conferences. You’ll also gain valuable work experience that looks impressive on your resume, and might even receive recommendation letters from the director and assistant directors for future employment or gradschool. The skills you’ll develop in the Writing Center can serve you well in a number of other fields after college.