OWL Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the OWL tutors?
The OWL tutors are the same writing tutors that work in the Learning Center for one-on-one writing appointments. They have all been recommended by faculty members and excel in the areas of writing and reading. The tutors also continually undergo training throughout the year.

What kind of help can I expect from the OWL tutors?
The OWL tutors will provide feedback on up to two specific areas of concentration (see list of areas on the OWL Tutor Response Form). The tutor will provide feedback on how to progress with your essay and improve your writing skills. The tutor will also provide 3—5 in-text comments (in bold font).  Note: The OWL tutors will not correct, edit, or proofread your papers.

How many times may I submit an essay to the OWL?
You can submit the same essay up to three times. Please include all previous versions of each draft so that the tutor can monitor your revision process. We encourage the students to submit essays more than once to receive additional feedback and build revision skills that are necessary for a successful writing process.

Students may schedule up to three appointments per week, in any combination of face-to-face sessions and OWL submissions.

When can I submit my paper?
You may submit a paper at any time, though please allow 1—2 business days for feedback to arrive in your inbox. As our tutors do not work at night or on weekends, essays submitted after 4:00pm will first be logged on the next business day. Essays submitted during the weekend will first be logged on Monday.  Please submit your essays well in advance of any due dates to allow enough time for your revision process.

Do I have to submit complete drafts?
No. Feel free to submit at any stage of the writing process. Questions, paragraphs, rough drafts, and outlines are welcome.

How many pages will my writing tutor provide feedback on?
Our writing tutor will provide feedback on as many as 5 pages of your essay per OWL submission.  If your essay is longer than 5 pages, please indicate which 5 pages of the essay you would like feedback on from your writing tutor. 

Can I submit my whole senior project to the OWL?
Your writing tutor will provide you with feedback on 5 pages per OWL submission.  Please submit the 5 pages of your senior project that you would like to receive feedback on. 

As you may schedule up to three appointments per week, in any combination of face-to-face sessions and OWL submissions, you may choose to submit your senior project to the OWL in increments in accordance with this policy.

Who should I contact if I have questions?
Please contact Francine Rubin (francine.rubin@purchase.edu) or stop by the Learning Center in 213 Student Services.