Schedule a Consultation for Writing, Reading, and Speaking Support

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WCOnline

Use the Writing Center’s WCOnline platform to book consultations with our staff about writing, reading, and public speaking.

Schedule a Consultation

Walk-In Writers' Workshop

looking for drop-in support?

The Walk-In Writers' Workshop is a regular time for productive co-working and quick consultations with writing associates, no appointment necessary. Join us at the big tables near the window inside the Learning and Teaching Commons (2nd floor Frost Library). Make yourself a cup of tea, sign up for a quick consultation with the writing associate, or just start writing. 

During Spring 2024, walk-ins are held Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday, 3-4pm; and Monday, Wednesday, 6-7pm starting February 5. 

How-to Video and Instructions for the WCOnline Search and Calendar Views

WCOnline, our scheduling platform, has a new look and functionality. We've developed some instructions for the two ways to book an appointment, by search or by calendar.

Writing and Reading 

In the Writing Center, students learn to interpret prompts, brainstorm ideas, develop arguments, organize, and revise with support. To discuss writing or reading, schedule a consultation with any writing associate, all of whom are capable generalists who coach in writing across disciplines and genres. If you seek a specialist (in STEM writing, creative writing, etc.), you can limit by area of focus.  

Meet with a writing associate to discuss a specific writing project, such as a class assignment, honors thesis, application essay, or creative writing project. Consultations happen at any stage in your writing process: to brainstorm, organize, revise, or reflect on your writing. We also offer sustained instruction on the writing process and reading strategies, support for multilingual writers, and writing counseling to address mental obstacles to effective writing.

If you have materials to share, such as a writing prompt, notes, or a work-in-progress, you may bring printed copies, email an attachment, or share in Google Docs. To discuss a draft longer than eight pages, please schedule two appointments and share your draft with the writing associate before the first hour. The two appointments do not need to be successive and you do not need to attend the first appointment.


Public Speaking 

Use the same calendar to schedule appointments with the associate in public speaking, Susan Daniels, when you wish to plan, revise, or rehearse a presentation, or to learn strategies for relaxing and gaining confidence in front of a live audience or a classroom full of peers.


For in-person appointments, you will find us in the Learning and Teaching Commons on the second floor of Frost Library. For a Zoom appointment,  just log into WCOnline at the appointment time, select your time, and click on "Join Online Consultation" to join the meeting.

Appointments may be booked up to 21 days in advance. Appointments are 45 minutes in length and start at the top of the hour. Appointments are available to all Amherst College students, as well as to Five-College students for work in Amherst College courses.

If you have any questions about the Writing Center or the WCOnline platform, please contact director Jessica Kem.