Back in June, we interviewed over 30 students for our Peer Writing Tutor Program. Though our Fall 2022 cohort is smaller than usual, our staff of ten new writing tutors is already mighty. They have been working in the Writing Center since August while also taking English 260 (Intro to Writing Center Theory & Practice), our tutor development course.

Please meet four of our new tutors as well as our the new Tutoring Coordinator for the Writing Center.

Ruby

Name: Ruby A
Teacher(s) who recommended you: Andrea Burruss
Major or career focus:  Psychology
How long have you been at CLC? 1 year
What is one strategy you use to get over writer’s block? Take a break!! If I feel overwhelmed and stuck on an assignment, I’ll step away from it for about an hour and walk around, watch Tik Toks, and/or play with my dog.
Handwrite first drafts or type them: I usually type my first drafts and outlines
What food can you not stop eating? popcorn
Recommend a book, graphic novel, movie, or TV series that you have enjoyed recently: Recently I have been watching She Hulk: Attorney at Law. It’s really fun and lighthearted and if you’re into Marvel Comics, Avengers, X-Men, etc. I highly recommend.
If your life had a theme song right now, what would it be?  Jhene Aiko – Eternal Sunshine
What is one surprising thing we should know about you? Last year, I bought a pair of Beats Solo Pros, and they are the best purchase I have ever made. I won’t go anywhere without them.

Milo

Name: Milo M
Teacher(s) who recommended you: Rin Martens and Nick Schevera
Major or career focus: English – Creative Writing
How long have you been at CLC? 2 years
What is one strategy you use to get over writer’s block? It depends! Honestly, my main strategy is just sitting down and getting something written down in order to facilitate the process of at least starting. The phrase “you can’t edit a blank page” is one of my favorites for any kind of writing.
Handwrite first drafts or type them:  I prefer to type first drafts. It’s easier to organize and rearrange my thoughts and writing when I’m working on a computer.
What food can you not stop eating? I have a special tradition of having cheesy popcorn on hand whenever I’m spending time with friends, and it’s one of my favorite things, so probably that!
Recommend a book, graphic novel, movie, or TV series that you have enjoyed recently: I recently finished Sandman with a couple of friends, and really enjoyed that! It’s visually beautiful with a compelling story-line and a wonderful soundtrack. I also read Howl’s Moving Castle over the summer, and would definitely recommend that if you’re looking for a whimsy, light-hearted novel with some darker themes.
If your life had a theme song right now, what would it be? Turn out the Lights by the Crane Wives
What is one surprising thing we should know about you? I used to play competitive polo (yes, on a horse, not in the water)!

Ethan

Name: Ethan U
Teacher(s) who recommended you:  Patrick Gonder
Major or career focus:  Music Education
How long have you been at CLC? This is my third year at CLC.
What is one strategy you use to get over writer’s block? I step away from the computer. I’ll often come across an interesting phrase or idea when I’m walking or doing chores. I find that inspiration strikes best when I’m away from my desk and I can clear my head.
Handwrite first drafts or type them: Nine times out of ten, I will commit my first draft to type.
What food can you not stop eating? Popcorn: it’s the perfect snack for studying and watching movies.
Recommend a book, graphic novel, movie, or TV series that you have enjoyed recently:  Trust by Hernan Diaz is a mind-blowing novel — a testament to how literature shapes our perception of reality.
If your life had a theme song right now, what would it be? I’m listening to a lot of folk music and Hadestown. I’m working on playing Grieg’s Piano Sonata in E minor, Op. 7.
What is one surprising thing we should know about you? I feel like I’m an open book, to be honest! Sometimes people are surprised to learn that I love to bake!

Leylani

Name: Leylani V
Teacher(s) who recommended you: Professor Burde (Physics 123)
Major or career focus: Mechanical Engineering
How long have you been at CLC? 2 years
What is one strategy you use to get over writer’s block? Just write out anything I am thinking about or record an audio clip and listen to it.
Handwrite first drafts or type them: Type
What food can you not stop eating? Cheese even though I’m lactose intolerant
Recommend a book, graphic novel, movie, or TV series that you have enjoyed recently: The Office
If your life had a theme song right now, what would it be? I’m not sure
What is one surprising thing we should know about you? I’m left-handed.

Colton

Name:  Colton W
Teacher(s) who recommended you: n/a
Major or career focus:  Writing Center Administration
How long have you been at CLC? 5 months
What is one strategy you use to get over writer’s block? To me, writer’s block is a way of my brain letting my body know that it is time for me to take a break. So, usually I walk away for a little while and do something fun (like take my dog on a walk or play some video games with my partner), then when I feel rested, I’ll return to writing.
Handwrite first drafts or type them: I type them
What food can you not stop eating? Chips and Guac
Recommend a book, graphic novel, movie, or TV series that you have enjoyed recently: Currently, I am in love with Abbott Elementary! Also, I really like the Red Rising book series.
If your life had a theme song right now, what would it be? “About Damn Time” by Lizzo
What is one surprising thing we should know about you? I got my Doctorate in Flute Performance and have performed in 5 different countries.