Graduate Writing Groups are for graduate writers who have begun the thesis/dissertation process (at any stage) and are writing independently. Our writing groups will provide you with a supportive environment that will help you make progress and stay positive.
Research demonstrates that graduate students who take part in writing groups are more productive writers, have higher self-efficacy, and build confidence as writers (Ekstein et. al. 2017; Simpson, 2012; Mannon, 2016). Our own assessment demonstrates that by joining our groups, graduate writers significantly improve in setting goals, focusing on their writing, and making progress on their drafts.
Graduate writing groups are composed of small groups of students who meet via Zoom every two weeks. Groups include the following:
- Goal setting and regular check-ins with group members to help you stay on track
- Feedback from peers and tutors on your writing
- Short interactive presentations on key aspects of thesis/dissertation writing including goal setting, time management, self-editing strategies, revision, handling feedback, and work/life balance
- Small group supportive environment
The groups are led by an advanced graduate tutor who is nearing the end of their own dissertation writing process. Because our Graduate Writing Groups are in high demand, they will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. These groups are specifically for students who are independently writing (e.g. we ask that faculty do not require their students to join the groups as part of a course, as we cannot meet that level of demand).
These groups are best for graduate students who want to commit to regular meetings and have the accountability of a small group environment. We ask that you commit to attending at least five of the six sessions offered. If you can't make this commitment, please consider attending our Thesis/Dissertation Boot Camp or signing up for individual tutorials.
Because we have a limited number of spaces available, we will prioritize those who did not get to participate in previous writing groups.
Please contact us by email at w-center@iup.edu with any questions that you have about these groups.