GradWrite

GradWrite is a writing retreat for graduate students put on by the Graduate Student Success Center. There is a presentation on common problems graduate writers face aimed at helping students navigate the writing process. After that, we dedicate the rest of the time for quiet writing. Students can use the time to work on their thesis/dissertation, class projects, term papers, resumes, applications, etc. GradWrite is a resource for students to hold themselves accountable and get their work done.

Students can receive a one-on-one session with one of our writing coaches to help set up customized individual programs for each student. GradWrite is also available for collaboration between online and on-campus students. Students shouldn’t be afraid to reach out to each other to gain new insight into their work and get help with the problems they face in their writing. 

GradWrite With Me is an in-person workshop designed to give you the space, resources, and support needed to conquer any project. If you have a question or need help, your peers will be right there to help you through whatever you need.

If you are unable to attend the in-person session, you can schedule a meeting with one of our writing coaches at a time that works with your schedule.

Nope! GradWrite is a free retreat for students to have a designated space and time to work on any writing projects that they have.

Yes! One of our writing coaches will be around to help you with any writing questions you have. Feel free to ask other attendees questions as well (as long as they are open to it). GradWrite encourages student collaboration between all disciplines and between online and on-campus students as well.

Create goals for the week. In order to make the most of your time at GradWrite, set a goal for yourself to be able to finish by the end of the week. Your goal can be a certain amount of pages you want to have written, a finished first draft, edits that need to be made, or a new idea you need to outline. You will feel more productive if you have something specific you need to be working on.

Know the problems you need help with. Our writing coaches can be available for one-on-one sessions with you to help figure out a way to overcome the challenges you face in your writing. Utilize your time with them by knowing what you need help with and take advantage of the fact that they are there specifically to help you.

Be willing to help your peers. GradWrite is a quiet place that you can get your writing done, but it can also be a place where you and other students can help each other. Collaboration is a big part of being a graduate student and gaining insight from another student who isn’t in the same discipline as you could be beneficial to your writing. It’s also a fun way to get to know new people that you probably wouldn’t meet otherwise.

Lunch, snacks, and drinks. GradWrite will provide some snack and drinks options, but if need something specifically due to a dietary restriction or allergy, then please bring something you’ll be able to eat and drink throughout the day. Writing requires your mind to be working at its full capacity and snacks are essential for that.

Writing materials. Bring your laptop charged and ready to go for the retreat. Riverfront Hall’s classrooms don’t have a ton of plug-in options and outlets could be limited; an extension cord could be useful for more seating options in the room as well. Bring your own notebooks, pens, and pencils if that is your preferred writing method for notes and outlines.

A sweater! It can get chilly in the buildings on campus, so be prepared for the weather outside, but also for the temperatures inside. Layers are your friends.

Headphones. If you don’t like the quiet while you’re working, or you just plain don’t want someone to bother you, bring your headphones so you can listen to music or instructional videos. Headphones can also be a great way to talk to your virtual peers that need helpful advice as well.