Writing Consultants
At the Butler University Writers’ Studio, our consultants are much more than “editors” or “proofreaders”—they are collaborative facilitators, resident artists, and trained peer mentors. Rather than evaluating, grading, or fixing papers, our consultants sit alongside fellow writers to engage in the real work of critical thinking, active listening, and creative problem-solving.
Who are our writing consultants?
Our staff is made up of high-achieving undergraduate and graduate students representing a wide range of academic programs across Butler University. As peers, they understand the unique pressures of University assignments, capstones, and creative deadlines. They act as “fellow travelers” in the writing process, fostering a non-hierarchical, welcoming environment where writers retain complete agency and authority over their own work.
We operate on the principle of “peers helping peers.” Our consultants utilize active listening and non-directive questioning to help you clarify arguments, structure complex ideas, and develop confidence in your own voice. Whether you are stuck on an assignment prompt or polishing a final manuscript, our consultants meet you with empathy, respect, and constructive dialogue.
Rigorous, ongoing training, & professional mentorship
To ensure that every writer receives insightful, high-impact guidance, our writing consultants undergo rigorous initial coursework and continuous professional development under the direct supervision of Studio leadership. Training extends far beyond the classroom. While working in the Studio, consultants are continuously observed, mentored, and supervised by our leadership team. This ongoing mentorship ensures that consultants maintain high standards of practice and adapt to evolving student needs.
Furthermore, in response to changing educational environments and AI tools, our consultants are trained to help writers navigate higher-order rhetorical choices—such as focus, organization, style, and argument development—that automated grammar checkers simply cannot address.
Versatility across all disciplines & all genres
Writing is the heartbeat of every scholarly discipline. Our consultants are trained to respect and support the distinct conventions of diverse academic, professional, and creative fields.
| Field/Genre Category | Types of Projects Supported | Consultation Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| STEM & Empirical Research | Lab reports, scientific articles, grant proposals, senior thesis drafts, poster presentations. | IMRaD structure, integrating data visualization, translating complex data into clear narratives, ethical attribution. |
| Business & Executive Communication | Business pitches, formal recommendations, memos, internal updates, executive summaries. | Bottom-Line Up-Front (BLUF) formatting, document design, skimmability, strategic and authoritative tone. |
| Performing & Visual Arts (JCA) | Artist statements, gallery notes, program descriptions, residency/grant applications, artistic bios. | Translating performance and sensory aesthetics into evocative text, studio critique adaptation, artistic branding. |
| Creative Writing & Screenwriting | Short fiction, poetry, screenplays, plays, novel manuscripts, world-building documents. | Narrative pacing, dialogue, character dynamics, meter and rhythm, visual storytelling, feedback on works-in-progress. |
| Core Curriculum & General Academic | First-Year Seminar (FYS) essays, analytical research papers, personal reflection essays. | Thesis development, source integration, critical thinking, argument structure, overcoming writer’s block. |
Any stage of the process & any project goal
Our consultants are equipped to support you regardless of where you are in your writing journey:
- Early Brainstorming & Outlining: You don’t need a finished draft or “perfect” prose. Bring an assignment prompt, a messy outline, or scattered ideas to talk through with a consultant.
- Works-in-Progress & Drafting: Work through organizational roadblocks, strengthen argument development, or experiment with new rhetorical strategies mid-draft.
- Polishing & Revision: Refine transitions, polish prose style, and gain confidence in your independent editing abilities.
- Personal & Passion Projects: Consultations aren’t limited to course assignments—bring grant applications, cover letters, contest entries, or personal creative projects!
Ready to write alongside a peer consultant?
Whether you are drafting a First-Year Seminar paper, a STEM lab report, a business proposal, or a creative screenplay, our trained consultants are here to collaborate with you. Make your appointment through Navigate360 today!