To become a coach in the Writing Center, you'll need to take EN314, "Teaching Writing," which is offered each spring. To be selected for that course, during the previous fall you'll need to take a short qualifying test of grammar and editing skills and get the recommendation of one instructor familiar with your writing. In short, follow these steps:
  1. In the early fall (September or October), ask an instructor who knows your writing to recommend you to Liz Inness-Brown, director of the Writing Center. (This recommendation can be sent over e-mail, by voice mail, or by note.)
  2. Once recommended, you'll receive the qualifying test by email. Complete it and return it on time.
  3. You'll be notified of the results of your test in time for fall registration. 
  4. Take EN314 in the spring. During this course, you'll also work two hours per week in the Writing Center, which will help you find out if you like coaching and wish to become a "core" (paid) coach.
  5. At the exit interview for EN314, you and the director will discuss whether or not you should become a core coach. Core coaches are paid at the highest workstudy rate; you may earn your workstudy through the Writing Center (we encourage that), but funds are also available to pay students who don't have workstudy.

If you have any further questions, or are interested in an MA-TESL coach positions, contact the director at einness-brown@smcvt.edu.