College isn't all about grades; sometimes, it's also about personal gratification.

Do you like to work with your hands, as well as your mind? I do. I relax by restoring old antique furniture. For me, it's the perfect way to clear away the cobwebs and get the creative juices flowing. I work with the pieces that I'm restoring, much the same was as I work with my writing.

I start with an old neglected piece of furniture, strip it, sand it, and then refinish it. Afterwards, I get to enjoy the fruits of my labor; it's my creation. It's about the stages the furniture goes through that make it mine. With writing, I start with an idea, work with it, and watch it slowly turn into something worthwhile; afterwards, it too, is my creation.

This will be my third year working at the Writing Center. I think it's the best place to work on campus while you learn. When I'm working with students and I see the light bulb go on for them, and I know they've got it, I get excited for them -- it's the best!

In addition to learning things myself, I get to help others realize that they have more knowledge about writing than they imagine. Hopefully, I can help you produce something that will give you great satisfaction. College isn't all about grades; sometimes, it's also about personal gratification. Come and explore a different medium for achieving personal gratification through written expression. Hope to see you at the UWC.